How to Become a Nurse Page 3

In the past, hospitals offered three year diploma courses where students lived and worked in the hospital and earned a nursing diploma, and then sat for their boards to become RNs. As nursing roles expanded far beyond the realm of hospital nursing, these programs closed. Today, very few remain, and most of those are now affiliated with 2 year (Associate Degree) programs.

To find all accredited nursing programs in your state or the state where you wish to attend school, contact the state board of nursing. Many states have a comprehensive list of accredited programs on their website. Find all from the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.

The two most popular courses of study today are the ADN (Associate Degree Nurse) and the BSN (Bachelor of Science Nurse). The ADN course is typically a two year degree program, and the BSN a four year degree program.

The ADN program is often focused more on practical applications of hands-on nursing where as the BSN program expands more in depth into the theoretical realms of patient care.

Most institutions pay on a scale based on education as well as experience. In recent years there has been a big push to mandate the BSN as the minimum requirement to be a professional nurse. Sound arguments both for and against this proposal have been well presented, and thus it is still being debated. The nursing shortage is playing a big role in the practicality of this. Simply put, more nurses are needed whether they are ADN or BSN prepared. However, for professional advancement, the BSN is usually required.

Again, an ADN program provides a career ladder choice to nurses. Many educational programs for RN-to-BSN or RN-to-MSN are gaining popularity.

After graduation from any of these courses of study, nurses all sit for their boards to become Registered Nurses. This exam is known as the NCLEX-RN. (See NCLEX section for more information.)

There are also many advanced degree options including Nurse Practitioner programs, as well as Masters and Doctoral degree programs with various areas of specialization and practice. Most middle to upper management positions require advanced degrees and/or specialization.

A great resource for nursing programs is Peterson's Nursing Programs 2008 (Nursing Programs) available at local libraries, high school and college career centers, and for purchase from most large bookstores.

Healthcare professionals at all levels are in demand and offer exciting and rewarding career choices. Explore your options today!

(For more information about nursing programs worldwide, see CGFNS & Immigration page.)