Becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) is a rewarding goal, but the path to get there isn’t one-size-fits-all. While the traditional four-year university program is a great option, many flexible and alternative routes can help you achieve your dream. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step overview of the entire process, focusing on the diverse educational pathways available today.
Before you can enroll in any nursing program, you need to have a solid educational foundation. Nearly every accredited nursing school, regardless of the specific program, will require you to meet these basic criteria.
Some students complete these prerequisites at a community college before applying to a nursing program to save money.
This is the most important decision you will make on your journey to becoming an RN. Your choice of educational program will determine how long you are in school, how much it costs, and what your initial career opportunities look like. Here’s a breakdown of the primary degree options and the flexible alternatives.
To become an RN, you must earn either an Associate Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree in nursing.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): Typically offered at community colleges, an ADN program is the fastest route to becoming an RN. It usually takes about two years to complete.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): This is a four-year degree offered at colleges and universities. The curriculum is more in-depth than an ADN program, including courses in nursing research, leadership, and public health.
The traditional four-year BSN isn’t the only way forward. Many programs are designed for career changers, working adults, or those who already have some healthcare experience.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Programs: This is a very popular “alternative” path designed for people who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field. Instead of starting over, an ABSN program allows you to leverage your previous education. These are intense, full-time programs that typically take only 11 to 18 months to complete. They are a fantastic option for those looking to make a career change efficiently.
LPN-to-RN Bridge Programs: If you are already a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), you don’t have to start from scratch. Bridge programs give you credit for your existing knowledge and experience. There are two main types:
Online and Hybrid Programs: Addressing the need for “flexible study formats,” many schools now offer nursing programs where the coursework is completed online. However, it is impossible to become an RN entirely online. All programs require you to complete hands-on clinical training in person at hospitals and other healthcare facilities. A hybrid program offers the flexibility of online learning combined with scheduled, local clinical placements. Schools like Western Governors University (WGU) and Purdue University Global are well-known for these flexible models.
Part-Time and Evening/Weekend Programs: For students who need to continue working or manage family commitments, many community colleges and universities offer part-time or evening/weekend nursing programs. These programs cover the exact same material and clinical requirements as their full-time counterparts, but they spread it out over a longer period, such as three to four years for an ADN.
No matter which educational path you choose, you will be required to complete a significant number of supervised clinical hours. This is where you apply the knowledge you learned in the classroom to real-world patient care. You will rotate through various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, and work in different specialties like pediatrics, surgery, and mental health.
After you graduate from your accredited nursing program, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). This standardized, nationwide exam is designed to test your knowledge and critical thinking skills to ensure you are ready to practice safely as an entry-level nurse. You cannot get your RN license without passing this exam.
Passing the NCLEX-RN is the final academic hurdle. The last step is to apply for your license with your state’s Board of Nursing. This process typically involves submitting your application, paying a fee, passing a criminal background check, and providing proof that you graduated from an approved nursing program and passed the NCLEX. Once your application is approved, you are officially a Registered Nurse.
What is the difference between being an RN and having a BSN? RN (Registered Nurse) is a license you earn by passing the NCLEX exam, which allows you to practice nursing. BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) is an academic degree. You can be an RN with either an ADN or a BSN, but having a BSN often leads to more career opportunities.
Can I really become a nurse online? You can complete much of the theoretical coursework online through a hybrid program, but you cannot become a nurse 100% online. All nursing programs require hundreds of hours of in-person, hands-on clinical training to graduate and qualify for the NCLEX exam.
What is the fastest way to become an RN? Generally, the fastest path is an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), which takes about two years. However, if you already have a bachelor’s degree in another subject, an Accelerated BSN (ABSN) program is even faster, often taking only 12-18 months.