What Education is Needed to Become a Registered Nurse?

Introduction

Registered Nurses (RNs) provide necessary patient care in multiple healthcare settings. Their scope of practice is broad, depending on where they work. The optimal degree required to be a registered nurse is an ADN or BSN. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or considering a career change, this guide will help you navigate the path to becoming a registered nurse.

Which Nursing Degree Should You Earn?

First, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) while completing an approved nursing program. Additionally, there might be other licensing requirements in different states, like background checks, etc. Therefore, it is better to consult your respective state’s board of nursing for specific education and licensing requirements.

Your desired career path, the length of time you are willing to attend school, and your prior nursing education will all influence the nursing degree that is best for you. 

How Long is Nursing School?

The length of nursing education depends on the course of the educational path you pursue. LPNs can take around 12-18 months, while BSNs typically take around four years, However, ADNs take around 2 years for completion.

Students enrolled in these programs are prepared for various nursing positions through their unique curricula. You can become an RN who oversees roles like LPNs with an ADN or BSN degree.

The Role of a Registered Nurse

Registered nurses are essential members of the healthcare team. They provide direct patient care, educate individuals and families on managing illnesses, administer medications, and coordinate with physicians and other health professionals. RNs work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, schools, and even patients’ homes.

In addition to hands-on care, many RNs also take on leadership roles, supervise licensed practical nurses (LPNs) or nursing assistants, and contribute to developing care plans. With healthcare needs on the rise, particularly due to an aging population, the demand for RNs is expected to grow significantly. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of registered nurses is projected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.

Steps to Become a Registered Nurse

All RNs have a similar trajectory to reach their educational goals. Here’s that road map for your assistance:

Completing Prerequisites for BSN or ADN

Prerequisites in science, math, and liberal arts must be fulfilled, whether you decide to pursue a BSN or an associate degree in nursing (ADN).  Basic knowledge of anatomy, physiology, biology, psychology, and statistics is frequently required for admission to nursing school.  Incoming students are frequently required to receive at least a C in these subjects by nursing schools.

Earn a BSN or an ADN Degree

An ADN or BSN degree can be used to begin a nursing career.  Comprehensive instruction and training in clinical nursing, leadership, and interpersonal communication are provided by a four-year BSN program.  The quickest path to becoming a registered nurse is a two-year ADN program that includes nursing principles. 

With an RN-to-BSN program, you can eventually obtain a BSN if you begin your nursing career as an ADN.  An accelerated BSN program allows you to graduate in as little as one year if you have a bachelor’s degree in an area other than nursing.

Pass the NCLEX

Six weeks before graduating, you can register for the NCLEX-RN and apply for licensure.  This computerized test, which consists of at least 75 questions, assesses your knowledge in four areas: physiological integrity, psychosocial integrity, health promotion and maintenance, and a safe and effective care environment.  The exam can take up to six hours to complete.

Find Employment

Whatever course of the degree you pursue, it is necessary to be proactive in your job hunt. Prepping up before graduation helps elevate your job hunt chances and find better employment opportunities. Another main option is to find a dedicated space for finding employment opportunities where only healthcare professionals are leading. HealthCareTalentLink (HCTL) is your trusted space for finding jobs and taking the lead today. Review the potential employer’s profile and gain insights into the work culture.

Obtain Certification in Your Field of Expertise

Consider earning your nursing specialty certification if you want more recognition, more job options, and a higher earning potential.  A passing exam score and two or more years of full-time clinical registered nurse experience in your specialty are frequently required to be eligible.

Is a BSN Degree Better Than an ADN Degree?

It all depends on your specific requirement. For instance, an ADN can help you get your foot in the door if you’re seeking an entry-level nursing position at a hospital or assisted living facility.  Additionally, earning an associate’s degree takes around half as long as earning a bachelor’s degree, so if you want to start working sooner, an ADN would be a smart option.

Conversely, RNs with a BSN frequently hold more responsible positions and may earn more money.

What Factors Should You Consider Before Choosing the Right Career Path?

Deciding the right trajectory takes a lot of effort, insights, experiences, and more. However, we can summarize them in a few simple points:

1. Time and Cost

An ADN allows for quicker entry into the workforce, which may be appealing if you’re eager to start earning or have financial constraints. On the other hand, a BSN requires more time and resources but offers long-term benefits, including higher pay and better job mobility.

2. Career Goals

If you envision yourself in a leadership role or pursuing advanced practice, a BSN is the preferred foundation. It aligns with graduate programs and opens doors to a wider range of specialties and roles.

3. Employer Expectations

More hospitals—especially those seeking Magnet status—prefer or require nurses to hold a BSN. Some even mandate that newly hired nurses with ADNs must earn a BSN within a specific time frame.

4. Program Flexibility

Look for programs that offer evening, weekend, or online classes, especially if you’re working or managing family responsibilities. Many RN-to-BSN programs cater specifically to working professionals.