RN Programs

RN Programs - Choose The Right Nursing Programs

Looking for RN programs that will allow you entry-level work as a nurse?  Even with 2.5 million registered nurses employed nationwide, these qualified professionals will remain in demand because of shortage. If you want a rewarding career, then the goal is to study further and even specialize. But first things first, how do you get into the nursing profession as an RN?

Whether you are a fresh graduate thinking of a career to pursue, or someone already working and looking to shift to the healthcare field, a nursing degree will prepare you to be among the skilled and competent medical professionals whose services are needed everywhere.

Moving from LPN to RN

If you have training as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or certified nursing assistant (CNA) and want to advance your career, you will need to search for transition RN programs that will credit your work experience and abbreviate your nursing training to become a registered nurse (RN). There are online LPN to RN programs that you can take advantage of, which will allow you to continue working at the same time.

A bridge program to an Associate Degree in Nursing may be completed in one to two years depending on the college or university offering it. You have the option to take it online or on site, although the latter will let you do it at your own pace and convenience. It is best to talk to RN schools before choosing to make sure you are making the right decision where your education is concerned.

While there are also transition programs for LPN to BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) that you can take up, an associate degree already qualifies you to take the NCLEX-RN test to become a licensed registered nurse and increase your chances of getting a higher salary.

Reminders Before Deciding On Nursing Programs

Without any health care background, you can still pursue nursing programs to start your career. There are online and campus RN programs offered to help you get on track. A high school diploma or GED equivalent are required, as well as advance courses in math, science and English.

However, always bear in mind that salary should not be your primary reason for choosing the profession. It takes a lot of dedication and sacrifice to become a nurse so your biggest motivation is a deep desire to want to help care for people.

A second reminder is to go with nursing schools that are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC), because this is one requirement before qualifying for the licensure exam, NCLEX-RN exam.

RN Programs To Choose From

The fastest route to becoming a registered nurse is through an associate nursing degree that can be completed in two to three years. This is also the most popular precisely because of the shorter length within which to gain the knowledge and skills that will prepare you for the job. This is also a cheaper option that will have you earning faster.

However, because of the demands of a nursing career, there are usually certain prerequisite courses, particularly liberal arts classes, needed to strengthen your educational foundation.

Cost is usually the primary reason why students think twice about pursuing a BSN. It will take you four years to complete and will need an investment of at least $30,000. Still, if you are confident that you can find a good paying job right after graduation and you did not spend prior for other college coursework, then this is a good option for you. Likewise, individuals seeking administrative or managerial positions in nursing will benefit from a BSN degree.

A diploma program is usually offered by a hospital or health facility in partnership with a community college. It typically takes three years to complete and its main feature is having access to more practical experience because of who is providing the training. With a good performance during training, you might just be absorbed by the facility where you completed the program.

If you already are a registered nurse (through associate or diploma programs) but are looking at managerial or higher administrative nursing positions, there are RN to BSN programs that are also offered in nursing schools. Although entry level jobs do not necessarily require a BSN, hospitals prefer nursing graduates with bachelors degrees supposedly because they can give higher quality patient care due to their training. RN to BSN programs can run from less than a year to two years, depending on the school you enroll in.

A nursing career for those who truly want to serve can be very fulfilling. There is room to grow and the compensation, especially if you specialize, is rewarding. If you're determined that becoming a registered nurse is what you want, check out RN programs with our school search and find the best one for you.