There are two types of nursing degrees: Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). LPNs usually work under the supervision of a Registered Nurse. While all states require a minimum of a nursing degree from an approved institution, additional requirements vary considerably, so you should find out what your state-specific requirements are before taking the plunge.
Registered Nurses
There are several degree options for those interested in becoming RNs.
Diploma curriculum (work/study programs offered by a small number of hospitals around the country) - 3 years.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) – 2 years - 700 such programs exist in the United States
Bachelor's of Science Degree in Nursing (BSN) – 4 years –There are 678 nursing schools nationwide
Nursing Doctorate – 3 years for students who already have a Bachelor’s Degree in another field
Licensed Practical Nurses
Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing – 12 to 18 months for students who already have a Bachelor’s Degree in another field.
Many LPNs go on to become RNs while taking advantage of tuition reimbursement offered by hospitals.
Nursing undergraduates take many courses also assigned to medical students, including anatomy, chemistry, and physiology. Supervised clinical experience is a required part of the curriculum and it can be completed anywhere from hospital departments to nursing care facilities and ambulatory clinics. RNs and LPNs must pass the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN licensing examination, which then has to be renewed every 3-5 years (depending on state).
Advanced Degree Programs are available to nurses who wish to move into a specialized field, such as midwifery or mental health nursing. This usually requires a higher degree (BS) and up to three years of additional schooling.
Finally, nurse practitioners may be able to prescribe medications in some states, provided they meet additional educational requirements.