What Are the Different Nursing Degrees?

Nursing is among the most essential health-care jobs. Duties range from providing routine care to assisting in surgery. Nurses work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools and patients' homes. Formal training is necessary in order to become a nurse. Various nursing degrees are available, depending on the skill level you wish to achieve. Programs are offered on both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Most nurses hold either licensed practical nurse or registered nurse licenses.

LPN degree

The initials LPN stand for licensed practical nurse. Licensed practical nurses perform many of the same duties as other nurses. Completing an LPN program typically requires at least one year of onsite training at a hospital or other health care facilities. After training is complete, LPN candidates sit for the NCLEX. This statewide exam enables them to become licensed by the state to practice medical care.

Associate's Degree

An associate's degree in nursing is usually offered by a community college or school of nursing. This is a two-year degree. Training focuses on hands-experience in a health care setting. Completion of an associate's degree enables the degree holder to sit for the RN or registered nurse portion of the NCLEX. After passing the NCLEX test, the candidate can apply for jobs as a registered nurse.

Bachelor's of Science in Nursing

The BSN degree is a four-year degree program offered at colleges, schools of nursing and universities. Students complete many undergraduate requirements in fields such as the liberal arts and sciences. Once undergraduate requirements are completed, students then focus on nursing practice in a hospital setting. Once the degree is complete students then sit for the NCLEX state licensing exam. After passing the exam, they may apply for jobs as registered nurses. A BSN in science gives the student well-rounded exposure to all fields of nursing and prepares them for leadership roles in the field.

Master's of Science in Nursing

A MSN in nursing is an advanced graduate degree in the field of nursing. The program typically takes from 18 to 24 months to complete. Applicants must have prior nursing experience and credentials. Completion of a master's degree of nursing prepares the graduate for a career in public health or hospital administration. Classes may focus on advanced understanding of chemistry and anatomy as well as business practices.

Doctoral Degree in Nursing

Candidates for doctoral degrees in nursing prepare for leadership roles in the field. They may include college-level teaching as well as independent science and medical research. Applicants must have prior advanced training in the field of nursing. Classes are given in such subjects as statistics and clinical practice. Completion takes from four to six years.