Contact your local hospital to schedule a date to job shadow a nurse. Nursing is a physically and mentally challenging career that often involves long shifts and few breaks, and it is not for everyone. Look closely at the pros and cons of this career before beginning the application process.
Call local nursing schools to ask about the availability of accelerated nursing programs. As of 2009, there were 230 accelerated options available in the United States.
Assess your financial situation. Save money for living expenses before beginning your program, or procure student loans to pay your bills while in school. Accelerated programs discourage students from working, due to the program's intensive nature.
Review your college transcript and sign up for the prerequisites you need prior to applying for nursing school. Typical prerequisites that were not necessary for your business degree include chemistry, microbiology and anatomy. Study daily and earn the highest scores possible, since admission into accelerated programs is very competitive, with many more applicants than slots.
Speak with a nursing school adviser prior to the application due date. Plan ahead to ensure that you have met all criteria prior to applying.
Apply for nursing school. You will need your official college transcript, a criminal background check and money for a processing fee.
Bond with your fellow students, as they are an excellent resource for both study help and emotional support. You will spend many hours outside of class studying, and you may have little time for a life outside your studies.
Apply for jobs as a student nurse in the semester before you graduate from nursing school. This hands-on experience will make you a more valuable job candidate after graduation.
Complete all homework prior to each clinical and class. Nursing school is challenging, but a nursing degree will enable you to work in a rewarding, secure job field.