Becoming a Nurse: The Ultimate Guide

If you could have any superpower, what would it be?

If your idea of a superpower involves wearing scrubs, using a stethoscope, and saving lives, you’re in the right place.

Nursing combines scientific expertise with compassionate care, making it a profession that profoundly impacts individuals and communities.

As a nurse, you become a vital part of the healthcare system, providing comfort, education, and critical support to patients. The demand for skilled nurses is on the rise, offering job security and diverse career opportunities.

So, how do you become a nurse?

What’s the timeline, and where do you even start?

This guide will cover everything you need to know about how to become a nurse, from nursing school support to choosing your nursing path and passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).

We’ll also answer, “How long does it take to become a registered nurse?”. But before we jump in, let’s learn a bit about nurses.

What is Nursing? An Overview of the Profession

Nursing is a dynamic and multifaceted profession dedicated to promoting health, preventing illness, and caring for individuals across the lifespan.

Nurses serve as caregivers, educators, advocates, and leaders within the healthcare team. They work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools, and community centers, adapting to the unique needs of each environment.

Through evidence-based practice and compassionate care, nurses play a crucial role in improving patient outcomes and advancing public health.

Understanding the Different Types of Nurses

You’ll have to pick a path and not all nurses wear the same hat (or scrubs).

Depending on your goals, you’ll have different options to explore.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) vs Registered Nurse (RN)

LPNs focus on more basic client care and often work under the supervision of RNs and doctors.

RNs, on the other hand, take on more advanced responsibilities like:

• Creating care plans
• Administering medications
• Educating clients

Types of RN Jobs

The nursing profession offers a wide array of specialties, allowing you to tailor your career to your interests and strengths. Here are some notable specialties:

• Pediatrics: Focuses on the health and medical care of children from infancy through adolescence.
• Critical Care: Involves caring for patients with life-threatening conditions in intensive care units.
• Oncology: Centers on treating and supporting patients diagnosed with cancer.
• Public Health: Aims to improve community health outcomes through education and preventive measures.
• Travel Nursing: Offers short-term assignments in various locations, providing flexibility and diverse experiences.

Each specialty presents unique challenges and rewards, enabling you to find a path that aligns with your passion and career goals.

Advanced Practice Roles (NP, CRNA, etc.)

Advanced practice roles like nurse practitioner (NP) or certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) open doors to:

• Leadership
• Specialized care
• More pay

Steps to Becoming a Nurse

Now that you know the types of nurses, let’s go through the steps to become a nurse.

1. Decide Which Type of Nurse You Want to Be

Do you want to provide bedside care, lead a healthcare team, or specialize in a specific area?

These decisions will guide your next steps.

2. Meet Educational Requirements (High School and Beyond)

Before entering nursing school, you must meet specific requirements.

These may vary depending on the program and institution. But here are the most common prerequisites.

• High School Diploma or GED Certificate: This is the basic requirement for any nursing program.

• High School Courses in Math and Science: Since nursing involves a strong foundation in science and math, most programs require applicants to have taken courses like biology or chemistry.

• Minimum GPA: Most programs require a minimum GPA for admission.

• Entrance Exam: Some programs require applicants to take an entrance exam, such as the HESI® or ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills), to determine their academic readiness.

• Letters of Recommendation: Many programs require applicants to submit letters of recommendation from teachers, employers, or other professionals who can attest to their academic potential and character.

Many nursing programs require prerequisites, such as biology, chemistry, and anatomy, completed in high school or through college coursework.

3. Complete a Nursing Program (LPN, ADN, or BSN)

Depending on your path, you’ll enroll in a program that fits your goals.

Here’s a breakdown of each program:

• LPN: Focuses on basic nursing skills, preparing you for entry-level roles in client care.

• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): Offers a blend of clinical experience and classroom learning, equipping you with the knowledge and skills to work as an RN.

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Provides a more comprehensive education, including case management, health promotion, and leadership, setting you up for a wider range of opportunities in nursing.

Each program includes hands-on clinical training to make sure you’re ready to care for clients with confidence and competence. Choose the right program for your career goals and the level of responsibility you want to take on in your nursing career.

4. Pass the NCLEX Exam

Passing the NCLEX is non-negotiable.

This test makes sure you’re ready to practice as a nurse. NCLEX Prep requires time and resources like study guides, practice exams, and expert insights for focused, easy-to-understand content.

5. Obtain Licensure and Start Your Career

After passing the NCLEX, the next step is to get your nursing license.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Apply to your state’s board of nursing. Each state has its own board that oversees licensure. Go to your state’s board website for the application forms and requirements. These may include background checks, proof of education, and application fees.

2. Submit the required documentation. Make sure you provide all the necessary documents, such as transcripts from your nursing program. Incomplete applications can delay the licensure process.

3. Wait for approval. Once approved, you’ll receive your nursing license and can start your career.

If you want an advanced practice role or specialty certification, the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) offers a range of certifications. These credentials will add to your expertise and open up more career opportunities.

Licensure requirements vary by state, so check your state’s board to determine what you need.

Download Our Nursing Resume Templates

Whether you’re thinking about college for the first time or looking to make a career change, our nursing resume template and cover letters can help you when you’re ready to start applying.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Nurse?

“How long does it take to become a nurse?” is among the most common questions aspiring nurses ask.

Figuring out how many years it takes to become a nurse depends on the nursing program.

Here’s an overview of the timeline for each program.

LPN Timeline: 1–2 Years

If you want to get into nursing fast, consider becoming an LPN.

With a diploma or certificate program that takes just 12–24 months to complete, this pathway prepares you for hands-on client care roles in a short amount of time.

RN Timeline: 2–4 Years (ADN vs BSN)

There are two main programs for becoming an RN: an ADN or a BSN.

An ADN takes about two years and provides a solid foundation for nursing practice. A BSN takes about four years and gives you more career opportunities, including leadership roles and positions at hospitals that prefer or require this degree.

If you hold a degree in another field, accelerated BSN programs can help fast-track your journey to becoming an RN.

Advanced Practice Nurse Timeline: 6+ Years

If you want advanced practice roles such as NP or CRNA, you must invest six or more years in education.

These roles require a BSN and a master’s or doctorate in nursing. While the timeline is longer, the opportunity to specialize, take on leadership positions, and earn more money makes the commitment well worth it.

Factors That Influence How Long It Takes to Become a Nurse

Besides the length of the nursing program, there are other factors to consider when answering the question, “How many years does it take to become a nurse.”

Your timeline can vary based on your circumstances, program choices, and how you balance your commitments.

Full-Time vs Part-Time Programs

Going to a full-time program will get you there faster, but part-time programs offer more flexibility if you have work, family, or other responsibilities.

While part-time study may add to your timeline, it can give you the balance needed to succeed without feeling overwhelmed.

Accelerated vs Traditional Nursing Programs

Accelerated nursing programs, like an accelerated BSN, are ideal for students with previous degrees or credits.

These rigorous and fast-paced programs can significantly reduce the time required to graduate. Traditional programs take longer but may offer a more manageable pace for some students.

Balancing School, Work, and Life

Stay on track by finding the right balance.

Create a schedule, set clear priorities, and lean on support systems — like friends, family, or even study groups. Self-care is just as important as coursework to avoid burnout.

Understanding and navigating these factors will help you tailor your nursing education to fit your goals and lifestyle.

Tips for Success on Your Nursing Journey

Nursing school is tough, but these tips will keep you moving forward.

Choosing the Right Nursing School

The nursing school you choose can set the tone for your entire journey. Consider these factors when making your decision:

• Program Quality: Look for accreditation and strong NCLEX pass rates.
• Costs: Compare tuition and financial aid options to make it affordable.
• Clinical Placement Opportunities: Make sure the program offers hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings.

A good program can give you the foundation and support you need to succeed.

Building Study Habits that Stick

Effective study habits are essential for mastering nursing concepts.

• Break material into smaller, manageable chunks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
• Review regularly to reinforce what you’ve learned.
• Use active study techniques like flashcards, practice questions, and study groups to make the material stick.

Consistency is key. Small, regular efforts are more effective than last-minute cramming.

Using Resources Like SimpleNursing

Make the most of tools designed to support nursing students.

SimpleNursing has tools like video tutorials, concise study guides, and practice questions to help you grasp concepts easily and ace your exams.

Why Becoming a Nurse Is Worth the Effort

Nursing is more than just a job. It’s a chance to build a meaningful, stable, and fulfilling career.

Career Stability

Health care is one of the most stable and in-demand industries.

Nursing is a field with nearly endless opportunities and solid job security. Industry experts predict that the employment of registered nurses will grow 6% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations due to various factors, including:

• An aging population
• Increasing chronic health issues
• A greater emphasis on preventive care

This growth will result in approximately 177,400 new job openings in the field.

Career Growth and Mobility

Registered nurses have diverse career paths, each offering unique opportunities and challenges.

The largest employer of RNs is hospitals (60%). RNs can work in various departments within hospitals, including:

• Emergency
• Oncology
• Pediatrics
• Intensive care units

Clinical settings, including doctor’s offices and outpatient care centers, provide alternatives to the high-pressure environment of hospitals. Here, nurses often focus on routine care and chronic disease management.

No matter the career path, CE and professional development are essential for registered nurses to stay current with the latest advancements and regulations in healthcare.

Opportunities to Make a Difference

As a nurse, every day is an opportunity to change lives.

Whether you’re offering comfort, delivering care, or guiding clients and their families through challenging moments, your impact is immediate and profound. Nurses are the heart of health care, standing on the front lines to provide compassion and expertise where it’s needed most.

Not many careers give you the satisfaction of knowing your work makes a difference in someone’s life in the moment and for years to come.

Long-Term Personal Fulfillment

Nurses form genuine connections with clients and their families, often becoming a vital part of their support system.

There’s nothing like seeing someone you’ve cared for get better and thrive, knowing you played a role in their journey.

Additional Resources for Aspiring Nurses

Looking for more ways to succeed? Here’s what you need.

• Study Guides for Nursing Programs: Stay ahead with well-organized, easy-to-read study guides.

• Practice Questions for the NCLEX Exam: Hone your test-taking skills with targeted practice.

• Webinars and Support from the SimpleNursing Community: Join other students and learn from nursing experts.

Make Your Superpower a Reality with SimpleNursing

Becoming a nurse is like unlocking a superpower — the power to promote health, provide comfort, and make a real difference in people’s lives.

From the moment you start on this journey, your potential to change lives is limitless, and your nursing dreams are within reach with the right tools.

SimpleNursing is here to help you harness your superpower.

Get started with SimpleNursing today.

FAQs

What Kind of GPA Do You Need to Be a Nurse?

Generally, you need a minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0 for admission into nursing programs, although competitive programs may have higher standards.

What are the Minimum Requirements for Nursing?

Minimum requirements may include completing prerequisite courses, obtaining a high school diploma or equivalent, and passing entrance exams.

What is the Highest Paying Nursing Job?

CRNAs are among the highest-paid nursing professionals, often earning six-figure salaries up to $212,000 due to their specialized skills and responsibilities.

What is the Lowest Paying Nursing Job?

CNAs generally earn the lowest salaries ($38,200 on average) in the nursing field, but this role often serves as a steppingstone to higher-paying nursing positions.