what course should i do to become a nurse

• Associate Degree in Nursing. This degree program is designed to develop individuals in solid foundational knowledge, attitudes and the skills for nursing practice.
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing, or BSN, is another path for an individual to take to become a nurse.
• Accelerated Nursing Program. An accelerated nursing program is a very specific option for individuals who have already earned a bachelor’s degree in another field of study.
• Master of Science in Nursing. The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is a higher-level nursing degree. ...

What training do you need to become a nurse?

• 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. ...
• Educational Requirements for RNs. ...
• Coursework. ...
• Advanced Education. ...
• Licensure Requirements. ...

How many years of college to be a nurse?

You can expect to become a registered nurse in around 2-4 years, depending on which nursing program you go with (ADN or BSN) and the level of education you having going in. How Long is an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) Program? Earning an Associate’s Degree in Nursing is the shortest path to becoming a Registered Nurse.

What colleges are good for nurses?

These things can and should include:

• If you need to work during nursing school, does the program offer a heavily structured environment or a more flexible one?
• How involved are the school’s faculty and administration in the program and the curriculum?
• How strong is a nursing program’s affiliation with local or national hospitals and clinics?

More items...

What are the qualifications to become a nurse?

The test focuses on your knowledge of four specific areas of nursing, including:

• Safe, effective care environments
• Health promotion and maintenance
• Psychosocial integrity and how to cope with the stresses of being a nurse
• Physiological integrity and your ability to deliver proper nursing care

Which course is best for nursing?

Undoubtedly, if a person wants to make a magnificent career in the sphere of the healthcare industry, then B.sc Nursing course is better than General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM). In the matter of career growth, higher studies, and salary the value of B.sc Nursing is more than General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) course.

What to study before becoming a nurse?

English - 4 years. Math - 3-4 years (including algebra and geometry) Science - 2-4 years (including biology and chemistry; physics and computer science are recommended) Social Studies - 3-4 years.

What is the fastest way to become a nurse?

If you're itching to enter the field, the fastest way to become a nurse would be taking the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) route. While you wouldn't actually be an RN, you could complete a Practical Nursing program and be well on your way to launching a nursing career in as few as 12 months.

Is nursing hard to study?

You will collaborate with other healthcare professionals and be expected to be proficient in both nursing and medical abilities. However, there's no denying that nursing college is hard. There's a lot to learn, the exams are challenging, the schedules are complicated, and the assignments keep piling up.

How many years does it take to become a nurse?

Depending on the specific nursing program that you enroll in, it could take anywhere from 16 months to four years to become a registered nurse.

How many types of nurses are there?

What Are the Different Types of Nurses and Their Salaries?Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) ... Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) ... Registered Nurse (RN) ... Surgical Assistant Registered Nurse. ... Home Care Registered Nurse. ... Emergency Room Registered Nurse. ... Labor and Delivery Nurse.More items...•

Can I become a nurse without a degree?

While nursing is a practical, hands-on profession, it also requires special technical competencies and clinical analysis skills that will potentially save people's lives. As such, you cannot become a Nurse without a degree in nursing.

What is the easiest nurse to become?

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Becoming an LPN is a fantastic way to start your nursing career. It usually takes around 12 months to go back to school to complete your postsecondary non-degree award or diploma as an LPN.

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.

Why do nurses need a BSN?

Nurses with more education are more likely to contribute to better patient outcomes. Nurses who hold a BSN have access to a wider variety of job opportunities. A BSN can pave the way to leadership positions within the healthcare setting. Nurses who set their sights on graduate school must first earn a bachelor’s degree.

What is a pre-licensure degree in nursing?

A pre-licensure bachelor’s degree will teach future nurses everything they need to know about caring for inpatients and outpatients. Students will explore key topics such as: The structure and function of the human body. The pathophysiology of diseases and conditions. Pharmacotherapy for disease prevention and treatment.

How long is an associates degree?

An associate degree is a two-year or three-year degree program, rather than a traditional four-year bachelor's degree. This shortened program enables students to pursue licensure as a registered nurse more quickly than if they had earned a bachelor’s degree. Students will graduate prepared to pursue entry-level positions within the nursing field.

What is pharmacotherapy in nursing?

Pharmacotherapy for disease prevention and treatment. Evidence-based nursing practices. In addition, a pre-licensure program will blend classroom instruction with hands-on learning opportunities. Practice is critical for nursing students, as the lives of their future patients will literally be in their hands.

What is the growth rate for nursing in 2029?

economy. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the growth rate for registered nurse (RN) positions through 2029 is projected to be 7% . 1 That rate is much faster than average, which is great news for students who are thinking of enrolling in a nursing degree program. The specific type of nursing degree you should pursue depends on your circumstances. There are various degree pathways for entering the nursing field.

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 become a nurse?

Becoming a nurse does not have to be a long drawn process. There are many ways to become a nurse, some in as little as 11 months. Read on to find out how.

How many hours does an LPN program take?

Most programs are 11 months, about 3 semesters, or 40 credit hours. This route may or may not include a clinical component within the curriculum, and many people report being able to work part-time throughout the program if necessary. As an LPN, you can work at the bedside, in clinics, and in many other places where nurses are hired.

What is a nurse apprenticeship?

Nurse Apprenticeships are programs offered by hospitals and academic programs to allow those who are in the process of obtaining their nursing degree, to begin working while in school. Although this doesn’t necessarily shorten the length of your nursing coursework, this does allow you to earn money while in the program, and provides an avenue of resources for you to land a job as soon as — or even before — you graduate. Learning on the job and making connections is a great way to jumpstart your career. Look for positions titled: “nurse apprenticeship,” “nurse technician,” or “nurse internship.” Click here to learn more about this program .

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

These programs range from 12 months to 2 years. Click here to read more about the accelerated BSN . 4. Nurse Apprenticeships.

Is a nurse salary lower than a bachelor's degree?

Your pay will begin on the scale of a registered nurse. However, in many places, the salary ceiling is lower than for a bachelor’s prepared nurse.

Can LPNs work in clinics?

As an LPN, you can work at the bedside, in clinics, and in many other places where nurses are hired. It’s important to know that the scope of practice for an LPN is not the same as an RN. You will be restricted in some practices — such as administering IV medication; your facility should provide guidance on these restrictions. Salaries for LPNs are also about half of that of a registered nurse.

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.

What is the study of the human body?

This is the study of the human body along with its structure and functionality. Cells, tissues, and organ systems are all included in these types of courses so that students learn about the muscular, digestive, skeletal, nervous, lymphatic, endocrine, urogenital, and respiratory systems.

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 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.

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 alphabet soup for nursing?

But as you’ve started researching nursing related roles and credentials and the alphabet soup (LPN, RN, DNP, CNS, BSN, CNA) that comes with them, things can get confusing fast. You just want a simple answer for what education it takes to become a nurse—and we can help spell it out.

How to become a LPN?

To become an LPN, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN). If you are pursuing an RN designation, you are required to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).

How to meet the nursing requirements?

Here are the basic steps you need to take to meet the nursing career requirements: 1. Choose a path. The first step you should take is deciding which path you should take to begin your nursing career.

How much does a nurse make an hour?

Earn a competitive salary: The national average salary for registered nurses is $32.26 per hour. After 10 years, the average nurse earns $38.11 per hour. Nurses can also increase their earning potential through advanced degrees, specialization and continuing education.

Why do nurses volunteer?

Some nurses also volunteer in their communities to promote the health of the public. Enter the workforce rapidly: Aspiring nurses can take different career paths to become a nurse.

How many hours do nurses work?

Enjoy a flexible schedule: A nurse's schedule often varies depending on the environment they work in. Many nurses work 12-hour shifts three days per week.

How often do nurses need to renew their license?

Nurses are generally required to renew their licenses every two or three years. To qualify, they must complete a certain number of hours in continuing education. They may also be required to take specific courses to qualify for renewal. Continuing education can also expand a nurse's professional advancement opportunities.

Is it a good idea to be a nurse?

If you are interested in the healthcare industry and enjoy working closely with patients, a career as a nurse may be for you. With the ability to work in a variety of different environments and make a real difference in the lives of patients, many people find this career fulfilling. Learning about the different requirements for being a nurse can help you determine whether this career is a good fit for you .

What Can I Expect in my Duties as a Nurse?

If you are feeling the call to become a nurse, it is important to become educated on what nurses do. There are various workplace environments for nurses to work in. Regardless of where you may work as a nurse, all nurses are educated to perform the same duties. These duties include:

I've Heard Nursing Schools Are Competitive

When it comes to embarking on a path to becoming a nurse, it is important to be prepared. You need to be aware of what will be expected of you. Prospective students need to research various nursing schools to see if their program will be a right fit. You need to figure out if this school has the right environment for you to academically thrive in.

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 bio...

See more on learn.org

Coursework

Educational Requirements For RNS

Advanced Education

Licensure Requirements