How Do You Become a Nurse?
Here are the most practical degree options for students
Not all nursing degrees are created equal. Each degree correlates directly to what job opportunities or potential fields are available. Curious about what you’ll need to become a licensed or registered nurse? Let’s explore what type of nursing education best suits your interests and time frame.
Degree Options
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
A CNA diploma or certificate provides nursing students with the quickest route to start working in healthcare. Most CNA programs last one to three months and equip students with the training to provide daily care for patients.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
An LPN certificate or diploma usually takes one or two years to complete and prepares students to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). LPNs are qualified to carry out basic nursing duties and many choose to pursue an associate or bachelor’s degree.
Associate Degree (ADN, ASN)
An associate degree requires two years of schooling but qualifies nursing students to take the NCLEX-RN and become an RN, or Registered Nurse. Associate degrees are another way to start working in the healthcare field while pursuing a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
A comprehensive four-year program, BSNs cover more complex studies and clinical experiences. Completing a BSN qualifies students to take the NCLEX-RN, and RNs with a BSN are strongly preferred by employers over RNs without a BSN. Both traditional undergraduate students and RNs with associate degrees can earn a BSN through respective programs.
Beyond a BSN
With a BSN, nursing students can pursue a Master of Science in Nursing degree (MSN) and then a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). These degrees open up opportunities for vocations such as nurse practitioners, nurse educators, and clinical nurse specialists. Nursing students must obtain a BSN before beginning an MSN or DNP.
Dual Enrollment
If you’re a high school student looking to get ahead on a nursing degree, you can earn both high school and college credits through dual enrollment courses at Portage Learning. Courses offered include biology, chemistry, psychology, and more. Online dual enrollment also is a more flexible, and affordable, alternative to general education courses at a four-year institution.
Portage Prep
Are you missing courses from high school that are required for nursing school? Portage Prep courses are designed to meet post-secondary entrance prerequisites and your continuing education needs in chemistry, biology, and math. Each of our courses meets the Pennsylvania state standards, which are among the highest in the nation.
Portage Learning Supports Nursing Students
If you intend to earn an associate degree or higher, Portage Learning offers nursing prerequisites you can complete on a flexible, self-directed schedule — and at an affordable price. Portage specializes in a wide range of biology courses, including Microbiology, Anatomy & Physiology, and Nutrition. Complete your nursing prerequisites with Portage Learning and reach your goal of becoming a nurse faster!
