Find Your Path to the RN Title
Nursinglink
January 28, 2012
In all States and the District of Columbia, students must graduate from an approved nursing program and pass a national licensing examination, known as the NCLEX-RN. But there are many ways to get there!
Would You Pass the NCLEX?
NCLEX Review: Part INCLEX Review: Part II
NCLEX Review: Part III
NCLEX Review: Part IV
NCLEX Vocab Review
NCLEX Math Review
You can obtain one (or more!) of several degrees in order to become a nurse.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN): This degree is typically gained through a year of training at a hospital, graduation from vocational-technical school, or through community college.
Associates Degree in Nursing (ADN): is acquired through graduation from community college and usually takes two years. It prepares an RN for a very defined set of clinical practices, and coursework includes technical practice and nursing theory. Many nurses with an ADN will return to school for a BSN or higher degree.
Bachelor of Sciences in Nursing (BSN): A Bachelor of Sciences in Nursing (BSN) requires graduation from a traditional 4-year college or university, and provides the full preparation for the entire scope of RN responsibilities. The preparation from a BSN includes nursing theory and broad clinical practice, as well as study of human development, psychology, chemistry, biology, and nutritional sciences. BSN holders are qualified to pursue masters degrees and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) professions, including Nurse Practitioner (NP), Certified Nurse Midwife (CNW) , Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), or Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists.
To explore Nursinglink’s Lists of Accredited ADN and BSN programs, click here.
Related Read: ADN vs. BSN: Which to Choose?
xtrinaxrenaex
almost 5 years ago
2 comments
I don't understand, so, you have to graduate from a 4-year university before you can get a BSN?
smifftee
almost 5 years ago
10 comments
I am starting school this fall, and I am excited as well as apprehensive. My goal is to become and RN and then eventually go on to be a Certified Nurse Midwife. This article is very informative, I think.
KariKW
almost 5 years ago
2 comments
I'm starting school this fall. My goal is to get my RN. I heard that you can get grants,that pay for living costs,while attending school. Does anyone know where I can apply for this?
Pumpkin1
almost 5 years ago
2 comments
Are there on line programs for nursing students that would qualify the student to take the national licensing exam? I am a single mom, must work during the week. I have a BA in Liberal Arts. Would I be able to get an ADN on line first , obtain clinical experience and then sit for the exam?
smbullard
almost 5 years ago
2 comments
I AM LOOKING TO DO THE WHOLE NURSING SCHOOL START TO FINISH ON-LINE IS THIS POSSIBLE IF I HAVE SOMEWHERE TO DO CLINICALS?
Terray
almost 5 years ago
2 comments
I am about to finish the medical assistant program but i wanted to become a RN_BSN is this possible
blessreynolds
about 5 years ago
2 comments
i am looking for a LPN-RN NSG degree can be obtained online-is this possible
ddmosely
about 5 years ago
2 comments
I AM LOOKING FOR A LPN-RN NSG DEGREE THAT CAN BE OBTAINED ONLINE - IS THIS POSSIBLE?