An associate's degree is also called a nursing diploma, and is the minimum academic requirement for becoming a registered nurse.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a 4-year degree that includes additional coursework in social work, psychology, clinical practice, public health and education.
Graduate degrees include Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and doctorate of nursing (Ph.D.), and require independent research and advanced academic coursework, followed by a written dissertation and an oral defense.
Clinical requirements vary by educational institution and usually include rotations through labor and delivery nursing, pediatrics, gerontology, emergency room and family practice.
According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, nursing students are required to complete cultural competency education to acquire appropriate skills to care for diverse populations of patients (see Resources).
In order to practice as a registered nurse, students must take and pass the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX-RN) after completing their formal coursework.
Continuing education requirements for nursing vary by state and type of nursing degree, and include lectures on legal, medical and scientific aspects of nursing.