Top Nursing Schools

Kaplan University

University of Phoenix

Colorado Technical University

Degrees in Nursing

To become a nurse, you must complete a nursing education program and pass the NCLEX exam.

Licensed Practical Nurse/Licensed Vocational Nurse (LPN / LVN)
These nurses must complete a state-approved education program and pass the NVLEX-PN exam for licensure. Classes are offered at vocational schools and community colleges, and last about one year.

Registered Nurse (RN)
A registered nurse is perhaps the most common nursing position, and many RNs go on to get their bachelor's and even master's degrees. RNs teach patients and their families how to manage their illness or injury, explain post-treatment home care needs; diet, nutrition, and exercise programs; and self-administration of medication and physical therapy.

The three major educational paths to registered nursing are a bachelor’s degree, an associate degree, or a diploma from an approved nursing program. Individuals then must complete a national licensing examination (NCLEX) in order to obtain a nursing license.

Further training or education can qualify nurses to work in specialty areas, and help improve advancement opportunities, and resulting compensation.

Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN)
RNs with a diploma or associate's degree often pursue a bachelor's degree through an RN-to-BSN program ; 629 such programs were offered in 2006. An increasing number of rograms are also available online for RN-to-BSN degree-seekers. Advancement opportunities increase for nurses who hold a bachelor's degree, and some positions require a bachelor's degree.

Master's of Science or Doctorate in Nursing (MSN or Ph.D.)
An RN with a bachelor’s degree may go on to obtain a master of science (MSN) or Ph.D in nursing, with the option of taking an accelerated master degree program . Nurses with master's or doctoral degrees frequently go on to teach at the university level.

Continuing Education (C.E.) Requirements
Each state requires that licenses be renewed. Continuing education requirements and license renewals vary according to state.