Decide what kind of nursing degree best fits your ability and career plan. You may be interested in a life devoted to hands-on care for others or you may wish to eventually fill an administrative or training role.
You may wish to work as a nurse in a relatively short period of time, as opposed to a longer period of study toward an advanced degree.
Choose which nursing degree most appeals to you at this point in time. In most cases, you will be required to start at the LPN level (Licensed Practical Nurse).
Once you finish your LPN degree, perhaps you will wish to progress to an Associate Degree in Nursing, which will allow you to apply for a license as an R.N. (Registered Nurse).
Determine which colleges or universities in your area have a nursing program.
Refer to each program's website and become informed about the coursework they require, the financial aid they offer, and the process for applying online.
Select two or three nursing programs to which you wish to apply. Call or email to ask for more information on the costs, the course work required, and the procedure for applying online.
Go online to each program in which you are interested and set up a password so that you can begin the application process. Take your time in reading the questions and answer each as accurately as you can. When you have completed the application, click on Submit, then follow up with any materials that need to be mailed, such as copies of diplomas, transcripts, or letters of reference.
Wait for a representative of each of the nursing programs to which you applied to contact you with their admission decision and information about financial aid and other details of your enrollment.
Compare the programs, the costs, and how they measure up to your career goals, then decide which nursing program you wish to attend.