So You Want to Become a Nurse? Five Routes to Pursuing Your New Career

Nursing is one of the most rewarding and in-demand careers in healthcare. With diverse opportunities and career paths, aspiring nurses have several ways to enter the profession. Whether you're starting fresh or making a career change, there’s a route that fits your needs. Here are five paths to becoming a nurse, each with its own advantages and considerations.

1. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant is one of the fastest ways to enter the nursing field. CNAs provide essential patient care, such as assisting with daily activities, taking vital signs, and offering emotional support.

  • Time to complete: Typically 4 to 12 weeks

  • Education requirements: High school diploma or GED

  • Where they work: Nursing homes, hospitals, home health agencies

  • Next steps: Many CNAs use this experience as a stepping stone to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Registered Nurses (RNs)

2. Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)

LPNs (or LVNs in some states) provide basic nursing care under the supervision of RNs and doctors. They administer medications, monitor patients, and assist with treatments.

  • Time to complete: About 12 to 18 months

  • Education requirements: Completion of an accredited LPN/LVN program

  • Where they work: Hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics

  • Next steps: Many LPNs choose to continue their education and become RNs through bridge programs

3. Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

An Associate Degree in Nursing is a popular option for those looking to become Registered Nurses (RNs) quickly while gaining hands-on experience. ADN programs are widely available at community colleges and provide the fundamental knowledge and skills needed for nursing practice.

Time to complete: About 2 years

  • Education requirements: High school diploma or GED

  • Where they work: Hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers

  • Next steps: ADN graduates can take the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed RNs and later pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) for career advancement

4. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

A BSN is the preferred degree for many employers and is required for leadership and specialized nursing roles. It provides comprehensive training in patient care, leadership, and evidence-based practice.

Time to complete: 4 years (or less for accelerated options)

  • Education requirements: High school diploma or prior college coursework

  • Where they work: Hospitals, research institutions, community health organizations

  • Next steps: Graduates take the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed RNs, with opportunities for further specialization or graduate studies

5. Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN)

For those who already have a bachelor’s degree in another field, an ABSN program is a fast-track option to becoming an RN. These intensive programs leverage previous education and focus on nursing-specific coursework.

Time to complete: 12 to 24 months

  • Education requirements: A non-nursing bachelor’s degree

  • Where they work: Hospitals, critical care units, specialty clinics

  • Next steps: After passing the NCLEX-RN, ABSN graduates can pursue nursing roles in various healthcare settings or advance into graduate nursing education

Choosing the Right Path

The best route to becoming a nurse depends on your current education, career goals, and time commitment. Whether you start as a CNA or jump into an ABSN program, each pathway provides valuable experience and opportunities for growth. With the demand for nurses continuously rising, now is a great time to pursue this fulfilling and impactful career.