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How Many Years of College does Nursing Require?

Are you considering going into nursing as a profession but want to know, “How many years of college does nursing require?” This article will answer that question and more about this topic.

The nursing profession is especially important at this moment.

The United States is currently experiencing a shortage of registered nurses (RNs). This deficit is expected to increase in the coming years as our population further ages and will require more medical care.

Those contemplating a career as a registered nurse will welcome this information! 

How Many Years of College Does Nursing Require?

The length of time required to become a nurse depends on various factors. Generally speaking, getting a degree in nursing will usually take between 2 and 4 years. 

You could start working as a nurse in as little as two years, though your journey may take longer depending on the nursing degree you earn and the kind of nursing job you hope to land. 

At certain times in your nursing career, you can be required to get higher levels of nursing degrees depending on the professional you want to be in the future.

How Long Will It Take To Get a Practical Nursing Diploma?

A diploma in practical nursing (PN) is frequently seen as the quickest route to a nursing career. A diploma is required to become an LPN or Licensed Practical Nurse.

This typically takes one to two years, depending on the school and the number of semesters required. The coursework required to acquire a diploma involves both classroom training and clinical practice.

Diploma programs are typically the fastest way to get a degree and help future nurses develop the core skills they’ll need for success. 

A state-approved diploma in practical nursing permits students to sit for the NCLEX-PN, a necessary step on the path to becoming an LPN.

How Long Will It Take To Get An Associate Degree in Nursing?

Traditionally, an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN or ADN) is a full two-year college program that prepares students to become Registered Nurses (RN). This type of curriculum allows you to acquire your RN certification, but it is merely the beginning of a professional nursing career.

As with any nursing program, you must select one your state’s nursing board has approved. In certain universities, an ASN degree permits students to begin working in nursing while pursuing further degrees.

An associate degree in nursing enables you to take the NCLEX-RN examination to become a Registered Nurse and to gain the benefits of such licensure.

How Long Will It Take To Get A Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing?

The typical completion time for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is four years. This degree is necessary for students who want a comprehensive understanding of nursing.

There may be further employment and compensation opportunities at this level. Bachelor-educated registered nurses (RNs) are more likely to work in hospitals than medical offices or other care institutions.

LPNs or RNs seeking a bachelor’s degree may be eligible for one- to three-year LPN-BSN or RN-BSN programs. Due to their prior nursing education and licensure, these applicants can apply their prior credits toward their bachelor’s degree and complete it sooner than in a standard 4-year program.

The education possible for nursing does not stop at the undergraduate level. Registered nurses can further their education depending on their short-term and long-term professional goals. 

How Long Will It Take To Get A Graduate-Level Degree?

A complete Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree enables nursing students to specialize in areas such as health research, hospital administration, and the care of specific patient populations or health conditions. 

Most master’s in nursing programs last between two and three years.

A graduate degree in nursing can boost a person’s earning potential, but it can also lead to opportunities in public health and service.

Since many master’s programs emphasize research, MSN graduates can investigate evidence-based solutions to patient needs.

As you can see, the nursing profession offers many great options – for school and a career. You can pursue a wide range of tasks and responsibilities, from aiding doctors with basic duties to serving on the executive boards of large hospital systems.