What Education Is Needed to Be a Nurse?

Nursing is a recession-proof field that offers many opportunities for advancement. You can begin a nursing career after only a few weeks of training. Below are some of the educational options available for people who want to be nurses.

Nurse's Aid/Assistant Certification

To earn this certification, you must complete a 75-hour training program through a university, vocational college, the Red Cross or another accredited organization.

Licensed Vocational Nurse/Licensed Practical Nurse

LPN/VPNs must complete a 1-year training program at a college or vocational college.

Associate of Nursing Degree

The Associate of Nursing Degree qualifies you as a Registered Nurse (RN). It requires a 2-year vocational program.

Bachelor of Nursing Sciences Degree

To obtain your BNS, you must complete a nursing major at a 4-year college or university. The BNS is the RN certification most employers prefer.

Master of Nursing Degree

Many Master of Nursing programs require you to have RN certification prior to enrollment. The degree takes about 2 years of full-time study.

Doctorate in Nursing

Nurses can apply for doctoral degrees in several disciplines, including nursing philosophy and nursing science. This degree offers opportunities to teach on university faculties and conduct research.

Certifications

All degree-holding nurses can participate in ongoing education to earn certifications in specialized areas, such as elder care or emergency room nursing.