* Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): This is a two-year program offered at community colleges and vocational schools. It's a faster route to becoming an RN, but graduates often pursue further education (like a BSN) for career advancement.
* Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): This is a four-year program offered at colleges and universities. It provides a broader education, including more liberal arts coursework, and is increasingly preferred by hospitals and other employers. Many employers now require or strongly prefer a BSN for new hires.
* Diploma in Nursing: This is an older pathway, traditionally offered by hospitals. These programs are becoming less common, though some still exist. They generally take around three years to complete.
Regardless of the path chosen, all RN programs include:
* Extensive classroom instruction: covering anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, maternal-newborn nursing, mental health nursing, and more.
* Significant clinical practice: This involves supervised hands-on experience in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. The amount of clinical hours varies by program.
* Successful completion of the NCLEX-RN exam: This is a standardized national licensing exam that all aspiring RNs must pass to receive their license.
After graduating from an accredited nursing program and passing the NCLEX-RN, you can apply for your RN license in the state where you wish to practice. Licensing requirements vary slightly by state.