Registered Nursing: It's Easier to Succeed than You Might Think
With considerable national attention focused on the healthcare industry, the profession of nursing is now considered one of the most rewarding fields available. Contrary to the stereotype of a nurse serving only in a hospital or a doctor’s office, the field of nursing is about as diverse as any field one can choose. Depending on personal preferences and experiences, nurses are found working in:
- Genetics research
- Hospice centers
- Emergency centers
- Case management
- Home health care
- Camps and resorts
- Legal offices
- Prenatal clinics
In fact, the list of positions and opportunities for nurses run the gamut from actually practicing medicine on a daily basis to research to writing guides and textbooks. The degree of specialization one may pursue ranges from Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) to Registered Nurses to Nurse practitioners. For many, earning the position of an RN represents the pinnacle of success, balancing nursing skills and capabilities with the opportunity to serve patients in need.
The Paths to Nursing
Because it is such an important job, there are a number of programs and policies are in place to assist those who seek a degree in nursing. Certain colleges and universities offer accelerated programs, allowing a student to earn an associate degree in as few as 18 months, and a full Bachelor’s Degree in as little 2.5 years. Many of these programs also focus on practical learning and hands-on experience.
While all RNs must pass the NCLEX exam to be licensed, there are actually three standard educational paths to the NCLEX and a life in nursing. These include:
- Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN)
This route focuses on the more technical aspects of standard nursing, and less on the broader field of medicine and administration. This path can take as little as 1.5 years through a year-round, accelerated program like the one offered at ECPI University. These courses are oriented towards passing the NCLEX-RN exam, allowing the student to start work as an RN.
It is then that many of these nurses pursue advanced education in their desired specialty, earning a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN).
- Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN)
The path that opens the most doors is the achievement of a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing. This is considered the standard requirement for nurses, as well as research and scientific facilities that have nurses on staff. A non-accelerated BSN requires four years of college and includes comprehensive training in both clinical and administrative nursing skills and knowledge. Some students who have gained a Bachelor’s in another field can apply for an accelerated BSN Program, which can be completed in 12 to 18 months when accepted. However, the prerequisites for such a program usually require a number of science courses, such as physiology, anatomy, and microbiology.
ECPI University’s College of Nursing is respected in the medical profession for its high-level educational standards and graduates. The school offers accelerated programs, including online courses and convenient locations.
If you’re interested in a degree in nursing, contact ECPI University to learn more about earning your Associate in Applied Science in Nursing or Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing. You could earn your degree in as little as 2.5 years through our accelerated, year-round program! It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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