1. Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN):
- Offered by community colleges and technical schools, ADN programs typically take two to three years to complete.
- These programs provide a foundation in nursing knowledge, clinical skills, and practical experiences.
2. Diploma in Nursing:
- Diploma nursing programs are offered by hospitals and nursing schools. They usually last for two to three years and focus on hands-on training in a hospital setting.
3. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN):
- BSN programs are offered by four-year colleges and universities. They provide a comprehensive education in nursing, including liberal arts coursework, nursing theory, and clinical experiences.
- BSN degrees are increasingly becoming the preferred educational requirement for RN roles in many healthcare settings.
4. Accelerated Nursing Programs:
- Accelerated nursing programs offer an accelerated path to nursing education, typically for individuals who already have a bachelor's degree in another field.
- These programs can be completed in as little as 12 to 18 months.
After completing any of these educational programs, you will need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a licensed RN in the United States.
In addition to these educational pathways, some hospitals and healthcare systems offer on-the-job training programs that can lead to RN licensure, but these are less common.
To become an RN, it's important to choose an accredited nursing education program that meets the standards of the state where you intend to practice.