what course do you need to become a nurse

by Bennett Schoen 8 min read

  • Important Information About This Occupation
  • Educational Requirements for LPNs. Becoming a licensed practical or vocational nurse requires completing a certificate or diploma program in practical nursing.
  • Coursework. The coursework you encounter during an LPN program can include anatomy and physiology, human biology and general psychology.
  • Educational Requirements for RNs. Registered nursing programs are 2-4 years in length and can lead to a diploma, associate's degree or bachelor's degree.
  • Coursework. During your RN program, you'll encounter foundational coursework similar to that found in an LPN program.
  • Advanced Education. If you're a licensed nurse who holds a bachelor's degree in nursing, you may have the opportunity to go on to pursue more advanced or specialized training within ...
  • Licensure Requirements. To work as an LPN or RN, you need to become licensed. ...

What Qualifications Do You Need to Become a Nurse? The minimal qualifications needed to become a practicing registered nurse (RN) are an associate degree (ASN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for Registered Nurses.

What are the educational requirements for becoming a registered nurse?

  • Submitting proof of licensure as an RN or NP
  • Completion of a graduate program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education ( ACME)
  • Verification by the director of the NM program confirming all program requirements were met, along with the date of completion

More items...

What training is required to become a RN?

Students may take courses in topics like:

  • Pharmacology
  • Management
  • Nursing skills
  • Patient care

What are the education requirements for a RN?

Registered Nurse (RN): Educational Requirements for Registered Nurses

  • Registered Nurse Education Overview. Registered nurses (RNs) are healthcare professionals who care for patients and educate them about their health conditions.
  • Educational Requirements for Registered Nursing. What degree do you need to be a nurse? ...
  • Licensure Requirements for Registered Nurses. ...
  • Salary and Career Information. ...

How much does it cost to become a RN?

The Average Cost of Different Nursing Degrees

  • CNA Costs. The cost of becoming a CNA can range depending on the state you test in. ...
  • LPN Costs. An LPN program takes 12 to 18 months to complete and generally costs around $10,000 to $15,000 total, though the costs may be more or less depending on ...
  • RN Costs. Becoming an RN can take anywhere from two to four years depending on the path of study. ...

How long does it take to get a nursing degree?

A post graduate diploma takes 2 years to complete after which you’ll be a fully qualified nurse.

What does nursing require?

Of course nursing requires you to have deep understanding of healthcare but you’ll also be a support system for patients as well.

What is the access to HE diploma?

The Access to HE Diploma is designed for anyone who wants to get into nursing but lacks relevant qualifications.

How long does a nursing degree last?

The degree in nursing usually lasts 4 years and must be certified by the Nursing and Midwifery Council.

Do universities accept access to HE?

Though most universities accept the Access to HE Diploma, some do not. Double-check with your desired university before applying.

How long is a nursing degree?

Registered nursing programs are 2-4 years in length and can lead to a diploma, associate's degree or bachelor's degree. Some individuals who have completed a 2-year degree program transfer into 4-year programs to take additional nursing courses. Earning a bachelor's degree can lead to career opportunities in research, teaching, consulting or administration. Additionally, if you already hold a bachelor's degree in another major, accelerated 1-year nursing programs are available. As with LPN programs, RN programs require you to have completed some prerequisite courses before you may enroll.

How long does it take to become a practical nurse?

Becoming a licensed practical or vocational nurse requires completing a certificate or diploma program in practical nursing. LPN programs typically take a year to complete and include both classroom and clinical training. Acceptance into a program requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Oftentimes, these programs require you ...

What classes do you take in LPN?

The coursework you encounter during an LPN program can include anatomy and physiology, human biology and general psychology. You'll be introduced to the foundations of nursing and learn about nursing for different points in a patient's lifespan. In addition to classroom and lab coursework, you'll gain supervised clinical experience.

What is the role of a nurse?

Nurses assist physicians in providing healthcare to individuals. The exact duties that you' d perform depend on your level of training. Becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or vocational nurse requires less training than does becoming a registered nurse (RN). As an LPN, you'd work under the supervision of RNs and perform basic nursing duties, ...

What are the different types of nursing?

You'll be trained in different types of nursing, such as medical-surgical, obstetric, pediatric and mental health nursing. You may also be required to take a research course if you choose to enroll in a bachelor's degree program. As an RN student, you'll be required to gain supervised clinical experience as well.

What are the responsibilities of a RN?

Your duties could include recording patients' medical histories, setting up patient care plans, administering medications, operating medical equipment, performing diagnostic tests and teaching patients how to manage their illnesses. You could choose to focus your work on a specific health condition, a specific group of people or a specific area of the body. For instance, you could become a diabetes management nurse, an addiction nurse or a cardiovascular nurse. You could also choose to work in a specific type of environment, such as in a hospital's emergency department or at a school.

How to become a nurse?

1. Pick a Good School. Make sure that the school you study nursing at has a solid reputation and a record of accomplishment for producing RNs who go on to find a place in good hospitals and healthcare facilities.

How long does it take to get an associates degree in nursing?

An associate's degree in nursing can take two years, or less if attending an accelerated program. The coursework focuses on the more technical applications of nursing, so classes often take place in clinical settings. An associate's degree holder can choose to work as an RN for a few years before applying for a bachelor's degree to increase the scope of their employability.

How long does a nursing degree last?

Bachelor's Degree. This is a popular degree in nursing that many students opt for. The program can last four years or more , but with accelerated programs can be accomplished much sooner, during which time students are taught what their duties will be as a nurse.

What is the nursing exam?

The exam tests candidates on four broad subjects, namely psychosocial, physiological integrity, healthcare environment safety and health promotion. There are some states which require nurses to take the exam at intervals to maintain the license's legitimacy.

What is the first half of nursing?

They will focus on human development and behavioral sciences which are used in the profession. The first half of the program focuses on nursing basics and includes courses on physiology, organic chemistry, and psychology. The next half is devoted to more practical learning.

How to get RN to wake up early?

Try to develop the habit of falling asleep early to wake up as soon as possible until it becomes a matter of routine.

What is the job of RN?

An RN's work always involves being part of the hospital staff. You will be one of several professionals tasked with safeguarding the lives of patients. In order to do so, everyone on the team needs to be on the same page and to get along with each other. Antagonizing your fellow nurses or the doctors will cause great harm to your career.

How long does it take to become a nurse?

The minimum amount of time needed to become a practicing nurse would be the 2 - 3 years of coursework associated with an associate degree in nursing. A bachelor’s degree takes 3 - 4 years of coursework. A master’s degree usually takes from 2 - 5 years depending if you go part-time or full-time.

How many years of coursework is required for an associates degree in nursing?

This degree program is designed to develop individuals in solid foundational knowledge, attitudes and the skills for nursing practice. With only two to three years of required coursework, the associate degree requires the least amount of time and money invested of all the degree options. After the coursework is completed, individuals must pass the national licensure examination (NCLEX).

What is the NCLEX exam?

National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN): Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are required to pass this test. LPNs have a slightly wider range of responsibilities than their CNA counterparts. They are tasked with administering certain medicines or conduct certain medical tests. The exam would cover these additional responsibilities and the comprehension of more basic assistance.

What do nurses do?

The question, “What does a nurse do?” is more complex than it might seem. A question that might be more helpful is, “What does an RN do?” More helpful information may surface if you specify the type of nursing you’re interested in. Here are some responsibilities that are important across many different nursing specialties: 1 Assess the condition of their patients 2 Record patient’s medical data and relevant behavior 3 Work and communicate efficiently with other members of the healthcare team 4 Effectively use and maintain medical equipment 5 Assist in forming a treatment plan 6 Assess patient and families teaching needs, develop an individualized teaching plan and provide relevant teaching 7 Advise families on the condition of the patient and post-hospital care

What is a masters in nursing?

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is a higher-level nursing degree. In most cases, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is required before starting an MSN program. Many MSN programs are offered online and allow students to take courses on either part-time or full-time basis. An interesting characteristic of this higher-level degree is that it’s very customizable. Depending on a scholar’s goals, the MSN can be helpful in a lot of different ways. Individuals in this degree program have the opportunity to take courses to improve their general nursing knowledge and skill, take coursework catered toward specialty skills in specific areas of nursing, or they can take a step back from direct nursing practices and learn about education, leadership, or business. In addition, at the graduate level, students can pursue an MSN and become a nurse practitioner. Being able to decide exactly what to focus on is very helpful for individuals looking to reach specific career goals.

What is a BSN program?

BSN programs consist of general education liberal arts courses, nursing specific courses, and clinical education. BSN programs provide a wide variety of clinical experiences for students which often helps the student decide what nursing specialty they may want to pursue after graduation.

What is a CNA?

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA): This state competency exam is designed for individuals who want to work as nursing assistants. CNAs have a fairly limited scope of responsibilities, and the examination will reflect that.

How long does it take to get a BSN?

The average BSN program, on the other hand, tends to take about four years to complete. If you would like to earn your BSN in less than four years, ...

How much does a registered nurse make?

The average salary earned by registered nurses is approximately $73,300 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

How to find out what degree is required in your state?

To find out which degree is required in your state, you should check with that state’s Department of Public Health, or whichever department or office handles licensure. For example, if you have questions about becoming a registered nurse in Massachusetts, you would contact the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing.

What is the curriculum for nursing school?

Nursing school curriculum covers topics from math and chemistry, to psychology and physiology. Learn what to expect and explore some of the most common nursing school classes here.

Why do you need to take microbiology for RN?

Basic microbiology courses are often included in RN degree work because it explains the cause of many human diseases. Some of the subject matter covered within this course involves the immune system, medication and how it reacts with the body, host-parasites, culturing, antibiotic identification, and biochemical testing.

What is nursing fundamentals?

Nursing Fundamentals includes a broad range of information involving the practical side of nursing and what is required of you. It will usually include discussions, demonstrations and lab work for simulations and hands on experience. Assessing disorders, determining treatments, teaching nursing, health promotion, ...

Why is mental health important in nursing?

Physical and mental health are closely related, and so this course and other RN courses on mental health are vital to understanding patient well-being. Because nurses provide so much hands-on care to patients and are a vital communications link for patients, their ability to understand mental health directly affects the quality of their nursing.

Does Clemson University have a women's nursing program?

Clemson University has a women and children course suited particularly for such nurses. These types of courses often cover the concepts of care for women and newborns, as well as women’s health through menstruation and menopause.

Do nurses prescribe medications?

While nurses (other than advanced practice nurses) do not prescribe medications, they must understand the fundamentals of pharmacology in order to ensure patient safety and answer patients’ questions.

How long does it take to get a nursing diploma?

A Practical Nursing diploma can be earned in as a few as 12 months, though the exact timing for studying, applying and earning licensure can vary depending on the individual’s schedule and the program. 2

What are the different types of nurses?

The most common types of nurses, and likely what most people imagine when they think of a nurse, are registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs).

What is a masters in nursing?

A Master of Science in Nursing can take registered nurses to the next level of nursing education and practice. An MSN can bring a nurse greater earning power, higher qualifications to apply to more jobs and a greater sense of satisfaction at work.

What do ADN nurses do?

Registered nurses conduct patient assessments, create care plans, administer medications and treatments, and educate patients and families about treatments and follow-up steps. ADN nurses learn all these skills and the science behind them while attending classes and performing labs. They also refine their skills in real-life by completing clinicals, usually in a hospital setting .

Why are nurses important?

1 They’re in demand, they can work in a variety of settings, and best of all—they make a tangible difference every day .

What is the best way to become a nurse?

There are two paths to becoming an RN—earning an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

What is the entrance requirement for nursing?

One common entrance requirement nurses face is the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam.

How to get a nursing job after passing the NCLEX?

Now’s the time to get your nursing resume up to par and polish your interview skills. It can help to lean a little on the connections you’ve made throughout nursing school—if you’ve built strong relationships during your clinical rotations, they can be a source of great references or even a heads-up on potential job openings.

What makes nursing school unique?

One aspect that makes nursing school unique compared to areas of study like business is that you have the chance to really spend time walking in the shoes of the professionals you aspire to be via clinical rotations. During this portion of your nursing training, you’ll be under direct supervision and have the opportunity to apply what you’ve learned in real healthcare settings. You can absorb a lot from studying and exams, but there’s no better way to learn the ropes than to do it yourself.

Is there a universal way to become a nurse?

Despite the multiple educational paths into nursing, there are still universal steps you’ll need to take on your way to becoming a nurse.

Do nursing programs have wait lists?

Start dates: Even if you’re in a hurry to get started, remember that some nursing programs may have a wait list or offer limited start dates.

What is the MSN in nursing?

Earning an MSN prepares nurse practitioners with the relevant knowledge, skillset, and expertise to become a leader within the healthcare industry and provide specific, hands-on patient care. It is during their master of science in nursing that most nurse practitioners will choose a specialization, of which there are many.

How long does it take to get a bachelor's degree?

You can earn either or both degrees within three to five years, depending on the specific program that you enroll in, whether you study full time or part time, whether you complete an accelerated degree, etc.

What is the difference between a DNP and a MSN?

In a nutshell, MSN students are trained for direct practice and patient care, while DNP students are trained in healthcare research and policy in addition to this patient care. As such, the DNP is often considered to be a terminal role for nurses, and the highest level of education that one might pursue.

What is a DNP?

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Another potential degree option for aspiring NPs is to earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). These degrees can be earned in place of an MSN or as the next step after earning your MSN. As such, they can either help you become a nurse practitioner or they can help you advance in your career after you are already ...

What is a nurse practitioner?

Nurse practitioners (NPs) save lives every day. They care for patients, oversee treatment plans, research the latest developments in healthcare, and are often educators in their field. As such, becoming a nurse practitioner and working in the field requires advanced training, education, and many hours of clinical work so ...

Is being a nurse practitioner rewarding?

No matter your decision, being a nurse practitioner is a challenging and rewarding career. You’ll be charged with providing top-of-the-line healthcare for your patients while also shaping the future of the healthcare industry for the better—ultimately saving and making a huge difference in peoples’ lives.

image

An Overview of Nursing

Educational Requirements For LPNs

  • Becoming a licensed practical or vocational nurse requires completing a certificate or diploma program in practical nursing. LPN programs typically take a year to complete and include both classroom and clinical training. Acceptance into a program requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Oftentimes, these programs require you to have taken biology, chemistry, and algebr…
See more on learn.org

Coursework

  • The coursework you encounter during an LPN program can include anatomy and physiology, human biology and general psychology. You'll be introduced to the foundations of nursing and learn about nursing for different points in a patient's lifespan. In addition to classroom and lab coursework, you'll gain supervised clinical experience.
See more on learn.org

Educational Requirements For RNS

  • Registered nursing programs are 2-4 years in length and can lead to a diploma, associate's degree or bachelor's degree. Some individuals who have completed a 2-year degree program transfer into 4-year programs to take additional nursing courses. Earning a bachelor's degree can lead to career opportunities in research, teaching, consulting or admini...
See more on learn.org

Advanced Education

  • If you're a licensed nurse who holds a bachelor's degree in nursing, you may have the opportunity to go on to pursue more advanced or specialized training within a graduate program. Earning a master's or doctoral degree could enable you to become an advanced practice nurse, such as a nurse practitioner, nurse anesthetist or nurse midwife. As an advanced practice nurse, you coul…
See more on learn.org

Licensure Requirements

  • To work as an LPN or RN, you need to become licensed. This means passing the appropriate National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for your level after graduating from an approved program. Be sure to check with your state for any additional licensure requirements.
See more on learn.org