A nursing diploma program can lead to a career as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) or a licensed practical nurse (LPN). These programs value hands-on experience over classroom learning and are often done on site in nursing homes or other health-care facilities. These programs were most popular in the decades before the 1970s, when some 800 schools provided the education, and are increasing in popularity again because of the current nursing shortage. Curriculum is most often designed for students to learn while working, primarily assisting nurses on day-to-day activities as nurse's aides. These paths differ from a degree program in that students may require further study before admission to an Associate Degree in Nursing ADN or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.
A Certified Nursing Assistant handles much of the hands-on care of patients. Their primary field is geriatric care, with the bulk of jobs available in nursing homes and hospitals. The job requires basic clinical skills, including taking vital signs, transferring patients from their bed to a chair, taking daily weights and occasionally dispensing medication. In some situations, they may help with bathing, feeding and other daily needs. This vocation normally requires a training class of 40 to 60 hours followed by an exam for certification. These providers often work under LPNs or registered nurses. A Licensed Practical Nurse diploma requires more extensive training -- usually on-site or classroom time that can range from 12 to 18 months -- and students must pass a licensing exam upon graduation. Their job description is more extensive, and can include overall health assessment, passing medication and handling injections. LPNs often work in nursing homes and hospitals and can become charge nurses, taking charge of a unit and directing CNAs.
Receiving an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) requires two years of classroom and practical work leading to a career as a registered nurse. These programs focus primarily on technical skills more than academic theory, as a bachelor's or master's level course would. Associate's programs can be found at community colleges, which can be more affordable, and some universities. Most programs will require a few basic courses before admission; writing and social science are the most common, but overall, the degree-specific courses will include science and lab-based work. Almost all ADN students will have to complete anatomy and physiology, as well as a few credits in pediatric, geriatric and mental health, pharmacology and psychology. Graduates will be able to sit for the state board examination, the NCLEX, and may find work in medical offices, hospitals and at-home care.
An aspiring registered nurse may earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing (BSN), which is currently one of the most in-demand professional degrees in the field. The degree normally takes four years, and is similar in some ways to the ADN in that graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX state exam. The primary difference is the breadth of job options afforded registered nurses with BSN degrees, many of which are highly competitive and offer better earning potential. Those with BSN degrees can also earn advanced degrees, some of which can be done while still working full or part time. Courses for a BSN are similar to those required for an ADN and include credits of biology, physiology, chemistry and career-specific geriatric, pediatric and mental health care. Most students must also complete clinical hours before graduation.