Individuals who want to become registered nurses can complete a two-year associate degree or four-year bachelor's degree program in this field. Associate degree programs are available at community colleges, while bachelor's degree programs are offered at four-year colleges and universities. Aspiring registered nurses also can complete a three-year diploma program administered in hospitals.
Although a diploma or an associate degree can open up job opportunities for registered nurses, a bachelor's degree program typically gives students more hands-on experience in non-hospital settings and features more communication and leadership classes. As a result, a four-year degree can make a registered nurse more employable and also make her eligible for research, teaching and administrative positions.
Accelerated bachelor's degree programs that last 12 months to 18 months are available for aspiring registered nurses who already have a bachelor's degree in another field. In addition, accelerated master's degree programs that last three to four years result in both a bachelor's and master's degree in registered nursing. Regular two-year master's degree programs also exist for registered nurses who want to become an advanced practice nurse such as a nurse anesthetist or nurse midwife. Registered nurses who have a diploma or associate degree in nursing but want to obtain a bachelor's degree can complete an RN-to-BSN program as well.
Classes at a school for registered nurses cover topics such as chemistry, anatomy/physiology, psychology, microbiology, nutrition and chemistry. Students also learn tasks such as how to administer medications and how to start intravenous lines for fluid or blood. Students in associate degree or bachelor's degree programs take liberal arts courses such as English as well. During their registered nursing program, students additionally are required to complete supervised practical experiences in medical facilities such as hospitals, home health agencies, nursing care facilities or ambulatory clinics. Registered nursing students can complete rotations in specialty areas such as surgery, pediatrics, maternity and psychiatry.
Schools for registered nurses are accredited by organizations such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC). Accreditation shows that a nursing school meets an established standard of training in this field. In addition, schools for registered nurses prepare students to pass the National Council Licensure Examination, or NCLEX-RN, which can take up to six hours to complete and is required for licensure as a registered nurse in all states (see Resources). Registered nurses generally must renew their license every two years by completing continuing education requirements.