Selecting the Right RN Nursing School

Once you’ve decided to become a registered nurse, the next important step in pursuing your career in this field of healthcare is to choose the school that is right for you.  You may also want to decide what your next step is, should you obtain your masters in nursing, or enroll in one of the many nurse practitioner programs.

Things to Consider When Searching for Registered Nursing Schools

There are many things for you to consider when making this important decision. As you research RN schools, here are other important questions to ask:

• Is the school accredited?
• Does the school prepare you to get your nursing certification?
• What field of nursing do you want to work in, and when do you need to make your decision?
• What kind of class schedule will work best for you?
• Does the school document your course hours?
• Should you get an associate’s degree so you can enter the industry in just two years – or is better to invest your time and money in a four-year BSN degree that can provide you with more opportunities and affect your salary as a registered nurse?
• Does the school assist in work placement?

Your Registered Nurse (RN) Education

There are a number of different paths to a registered nurse career:

Associates Degree in Nursing AND (2 years)

The Associate’s Degree in Nursing option is the fastest route to becoming a registered nurse. Community and junior colleges offer this degree, and ADN graduates are able to apply for entry-level nursing positions upon completion of the program. This option allows you to begin to earn valuable work experience right away.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing BSN (4 years)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree prepares you for a number of nursing career options. This degree is offered in colleges and universities. BSN nurses can work in any health care setting, including critical care, ambulatory care, public health, and mental health. A BSN is also required for most advanced nursing certifications and degrees. If you know you want to pursue a career dealing with an advanced nursing specialty, it’s a good idea to pursue your BSN right away.

Diploma (2-3 years)

Diploma programs offer student the opportunity to work in hospitals and other inpatient settings. Offered by hospitals, this type of program has become less common in recent years, with fewer than 100 diploma programs existing in the U.S.

RN-to-BSN (2-3 years)

A RN to BSN Degree is aimed at RNs who already have their associate’s degrees and are seeking to earn their RN to BSN program. Consequently, they are designed to fit the schedule of working nurses and offer credits for work experience.

Get Started with your Online Registered Nurse Degree

Today it’s easier than ever for you to further your education and increase your salary with an online RN degree. If you want to start taking steps towards becoming a registered nurse, find the online school and degree program that’s right for you today!

RN Nursing School Resources

There are a lot of things to consider as you move forward with your education and begin plotting the course of your career, but you don’t have to do it alone. Get the information you need by exploring our Career Resources below.

Registered Nurse Careers
Learn how registered nursing school can help move you towards a variety of career opportunities.

Registered Nurse Programs
Choose the registered nurse program that will put you on track to launching a career in this branch of health care.

NCLEX Exam
Learn more about what you need to know before taking the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).

Registered Nurse Salaries
Learn how an education can affect your earnings and salary growth as a registered nurse.

Popular Online Degrees