Contents
Get an overview of the education requirements for a registered nurse, including information on degree programs, licensure, and career outlook.
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Introduction
In order to become a registered nurse, one must first complete an accredited nursing program. There are three main types of nursing programs: associate’s degree in nursing (ADN), bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN), and diploma in nursing. The ADN and BSN programs typically take two to four years to complete, while the diploma program can be completed in as little as two years. After completing a nursing program, graduates must then pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) in order to become licensed registered nurses.
What are the Education Requirements for a Registered Nurse?
Education requirements for a Registered Nurse include completing an accredited nursing program and passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). Registered nurses must have a diploma, an associate’s degree, or a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
Associate Degree in Nursing
An associate degree in nursing (ADN) is the most common type of nursing degree. An ADN program typically takes two to three years to complete and is offered by community colleges and some four-year colleges. ADN programs prepare students to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) so they can become licensed registered nurses.
Registered nurses with an ADN generally have the same job responsibilities as those with a bachelor’s degree in nursing, but they may be limited in their ability to advance to certain positions or may need to complete additional coursework to qualify for certain roles. Many registered nurses with an ADN choose to go back to school and earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing so they can take advantage of more career opportunities.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is the minimum level of education required to become a registered nurse, according to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. RNs with a BSN have completed four years of collegiate coursework, which typically includes classes in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, chemistry, nursing theory and practice, and liberal arts. Many BSN programs also offer clinical experiences, which give students the opportunity to work with patients in hospitals or other healthcare settings.
Master of Science in Nursing
A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is a graduate degree that typically takes two to three years to complete. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), most RNs who pursue an MSN do so in order to earn a higher salary and become eligible for more advanced nursing positions, such as nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, or nurse anesthetist.
In order to be eligible for an MSN program, you must first earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited school. During your undergraduate studies, you will likely take courses in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, chemistry, and statistics, as well as general education courses. Once you have completed your bachelor’s degree, you can apply to MSN programs.
Admission requirements vary by school, but most MSN programs require that you take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and submit a writing sample. Some programs may also require that you have several years of nursing experience.
Once you are enrolled in an MSN program, you will take coursework in advanced nursing topics such as advanced pharmacology, pathophysiology, and health assessment. You will also complete a clinical component, which will give you hands-on experience working with patients. Upon completing your MSN program, you will be eligible to take the national licensing exam for RNs.
Conclusion
These are the education requirements for a registered nurse. In order to become a registered nurse, you must first complete an accredited nursing program and then pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
