Nursing is one of the most versatile and in-demand healthcare professions. To become a registered nurse (RN), you must complete an approved nursing program, pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), and obtain a state license. From there, nurses can pursue countless specialties, certifications, and advanced degrees.
High school and college-level courses in:
English & Writing
Math
Biology
Chemistry
These are foundational for admission into nursing programs.
Hospital-based training program (less common today).
Prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN.
~2 years, usually through a community college.
Prepares students for the NCLEX-RN.
Focus on technical nursing skills; narrower career options.
~4 years, through a college or university.
Broader career opportunities, leadership potential, and often preferred by employers.
First two years: psychology, growth & development, anatomy & physiology, microbiology, chemistry, nutrition.
Final two years: adult health, maternal/child health, pediatrics, psychiatric/mental health, community health, plus leadership and research.
Designed for students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree.
Shorter completion time (often 12–18 months).
Apply to your state’s Board of Nursing for eligibility.
The exam evaluates:
Safe and effective care environment
Health promotion and maintenance
Psychosocial integrity
Physiological integrity
Passing = required for licensure.
Apply to the Board of Nursing in the state where you plan to practice.
Each state sets its own requirements. Boards of Nursing oversee:
Initial and continuing education/competency standards.
Defining nursing scope of practice.
Investigating complaints and taking disciplinary action.
With an RN license, you can:
Work in hospitals, clinics, schools, long-term care, public health, or community settings.
Choose to specialize (e.g., pediatrics, critical care, mental health).
Pursue certifications to expand expertise.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): prepares nurse practitioners, administrators, educators.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): clinical leadership and advanced practice.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD): research-focused, often leading to academic or research roles
Becoming a nurse requires commitment to both academics and patient care. There are multiple entry points ADN, BSN, diploma and multiple pathways for growth. After graduation, all nurses must pass the NCLEX-RN and obtain state licensure. Nursing careers can then expand through specialization, certification, or advanced degrees, making nursing one of the most flexible and rewarding healthcare professions.