How Long Does It Take To Get Rn

How long does it take to become an RN?

As an aspiring nurse, you may be wondering how long does it takes to become an RN. The answer isn't as straightforward as you may think.

Registered nurses (RNs) need to have at least an associate's degree (also called an ADN) to practice nursing.
There is also a BSN (bachelor of science in nursing) option for more advanced nursing and nursing specialties.

Each degree requires a different amount of time to complete your training. Still, you could become a nurse in as little as 15-18 months with an accelerated nursing program .

how long does it takes to become an RN

Associate's Degree in Nursing

If you want to become an RN quickly, you may want to look into an ADN rather than a BSN degree. Traditionally, an ADN program lasts two years, but this can be even faster if you're already an LPN. After you finish your program, you will need to pass the NCLEX-RN. Passing the NCLEX-RN and meeting all of your other state requirements will allow you to begin practicing as a registered nurse.

Coursework for an ADN degree includes nursing-specific topics and general education courses. They'll be plenty of book learning and also lots of hands-on clinical experience.

An ADN is a great way to jumpstart your nursing career for many reasons. Many people use an ADN as a stepping stone toward a higher degree. Many people who pursue ADN get an entry-level nursing position and then pay for a higher degree using their employers' tuition reimbursement programs.

Achieve Test Prep makes getting your RN faster and more affordable. Find out how.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree

Getting your BSN has many benefits. For one, a BSN enables you to pursue more advanced nursing specialties and advanced degrees in the future. With a BSN, you have higher income earning potential and more career advancement opportunities than an ADN.

There are a few different ways you can earn your BSN:

If you already have an ADN, an RN to BSN program is an excellent option if you want to advance your education. You can earn your BSN in as few as 12 to 18 months.
If you don't have your ADN, you can still join an accelerated BSN program (although it would take a bit longer) where you can "test out" of general education courses, like the one offered by Achieve Test Prep.
If you have a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field, you can use your previous schooling to obtain your BSN in as few as 18 months with an accelerated program.

There's another critical reason why you should consider getting your BSN. Many employers now require it for their entry-level positions.

A BSN program is usually much more in-depth and comprehensive than an ADN program. Not only do you do the same nursing coursework you would do for an ADN, but BSN programs also have advanced courses that cover leadership and public health topics. If you plan to have a nursing leadership position, you should take getting your BSN very seriously.

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How long does it take to become an RN? The short answer? It depends on your education, experience, and degree program.

If you're thinking about earning your ADN or BSN, Achieve Test Prep makes getting your RN easier and faster than ever.

Our bridge program uses Credit-by-Exam, so you can "test out" of your nursing prerequisites and earn your ADN or BSN faster. Plus, we help make sure your previous college credits and work experience count toward your advanced degree.

For more information on our RN bridge programs or other nursing programs, contact us here.

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