3 answers
Joanne’s Answer
To become a registered nurse you must apply to an accredited school of nursing. To pursue a Bachelor's degree in nursing which is considered entry level in many areas and facilities, it takes 4 years. You could become a registered nurse by taking a 2 year program to earn an Associate's degree in nursing. If you complete either of those programs successfully you are qualified to take a test to become a registered nurse. The test is given by the Board of Registration in Nursing by the state that you live in or intent to work in. The test is very difficult and usually is given in a full-day session or 2 half-day sessions.
Joanne recommends the following next steps:
Richard’s Answer
Julie’s Answer
I would start by researching colleges near you and decide if you would like to attend a 2-year (ADN) or 4-year (BSN) program. Keep in mind, most schools also will have bridge programs to complete a BSN within a few years if you need to work and complete your degree. Also, some employers and hospitals will offer tuition reimbursement for students to attend nursing school, so sometimes it is worth getting a job as a CNA or PCT (nursing assistant or patient care tech) while you go to school to take advantage of this opportunity.
I would visit websites of nearby schools and colleges and research their programs, admission rates, and costs, and decide which one works best for you.
Good luck!
Julie recommends the following next steps: