How to Become an RN Fast: Explore Four Potential Paths (2024)

FAQs

What are the three main paths to becoming an RN? ›

The three main entry-level paths to becoming a Registered Nurse are: Diploma program. Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

An associate's degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN) are the two most common fast-track options. Both ways do require you to pass the NCLEX-RN licensure examination post your degree.

One of the primary advantages of beginning your nursing career as a licensed vocational nurse (LVN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN) is the speed at which you can enter the field. An LPN/LVN program is the fastest entry-level nursing program.

An ADN degree is one of the fastest ways to become a nurse. These programs bypass general education classes and focus entirely on the coursework needed for nursing. However, there are some considerations you'll want to think about with an ADN. There may be career growth limitations with an ADN.

Nursing diploma: A nursing diploma is a fast and often more affordable path to becoming an RN. This type of program is most often based in a hospital. They aren't as common as degree programs, but if your state has one, you may be able to start working as an RN in less than two years.

One of the reasons why nursing school is hard is that nursing students need to manage multiple academic responsibilities at the same time. As a nursing student, you'll not only need to do well on exams, but you'll also need to develop hands-on skills, communication skills, and bedside nursing skills.

It's not too late to change careers to nursing. In fact, becoming a nurse later in life might be easier than you think, thanks to nursing degree programs that leverage your existing academic credentials. Nurses and nursing students come in a range of ages.

School Nurse

School nursing qualifies as one of the least stressful nursing jobs because of the schedule and typical tasks. Instead of working on a hospital schedule, school nurses work on an academic calendar.

What is the lowest RN degree? ›

You can become a registered nurse (RN) through an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). After gaining 1-2 years of nursing experience, you can pursue an advanced nursing degree, such as a master of science in nursing (MSN) and doctor of nursing practice (DNP).

RNs either complete an approved nursing program, an associate degree in nursing, or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), to pursue licensure. This varies from state to state. After completing appropriate education, the next step is passing the comprehensive national test (NCLEX).

NCLEX's difficulty can fluctuate among test-takers but is generally regarded as a formidable examination. It scrutinizes your aptitude for critical thinking, application of nursing acumen, and formulation of safe and efficacious decisions within a clinical context.

Most RN programs take between 2-4 years. The most common pathways to an RN license are an ADN (two years) or a BSN (four years). ADN programs are shorter and the tuition is generally cheaper, so this is the fastest and most affordable track.

Read on to learn about the path you can take in your nursing career: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Steps to Become a Registered Nurse

Take and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for registered nurses (NCLEX-RN). Obtain licensure in the state where you wish to practice. Requirements vary by state. Learn more about state-by-state requirements for RN licensing.

What is the highest level of nursing? The highest level of nursing education is the doctoral level. Positions that require doctoral nursing degrees include certain types of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), as well as leadership positions such as chief nursing officer or director of nursing.