I am considering a career in nursing and doing some research on it. I'm going to be a senior in high school and I was trying to look into nursing so I could figure out where I would like to attend college. I know that the first step to becoming an RN is to become a CNA, but how exactly can I take classes to become a CNA and how long do they take? After I become a CNA where is a good place to start working? I read that most people worked in nursing homes. Also, in order to become an RN do I have to go through a BSN program or is that after I become an RN? So, if you could help me out with these questions I would really appreciate it! Thank you so much.

meg15, you can be an RN by either an ADN/ASN or a BSN. There is no difference in scope of practice between those degrees. In fact, you have far more clinical advantages with an ADN/ASN or diploma than you do a BSN.

Hi Meg. You dont have to be a CNA first, although it may help give you a base of comfort since you will gain experience working hands on with patients and the general flow of a "home" or hospital. You can sign up for prerequisite courses at your community college or local university without this experience though ( as long as you pass their entrance exam). If you do get a job as a CNA for a hospital, inquire about tuition reimbursement !! This is where you sign a contract with the hospital to continue working for them for a said time period after you graduate the nursing program (about 2 years) and "they" will contribute to your schooling costs. You can get an Associates degree, then sit on your states nursing exam to obtain your RN. A BSN is for Bachelors degree (or if your looking for a specialty) -and from other posts on this site I am told that with a BSN you have more administrative duties vs RN who has more clinical type duties.