* Prior education: If you already have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), the program will generally be shorter than if you are entering with an associate degree in nursing (ADN) and need to complete prerequisite coursework. Some programs offer accelerated tracks for BSN graduates.
* Program format: Full-time programs naturally take less time than part-time programs. Part-time programs can extend the completion time to 4 years or more.
* Program requirements: Some programs may have more extensive clinical requirements, adding to the overall time commitment.
* Individual student pace: Individual students' progress can also vary depending on their learning style and time management skills.
It's best to check the specific program details of the school you're considering to get an accurate estimate of the program length.