How to Start a Career As a Registered Nurse

A career as a registered nurse (RN) holds much promise for fulfillment and job security, as well as a reasonable salary potential. RNs are in high demand in most areas, and there are often numerous positions from which to choose. But to work as a registered nurse, you will need to complete an accredited training program and apply for a license.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Obtain a list of the accredited nursing schools in your area that train registered nurses. Your state board of nursing should be able to provide you with a list of the accredited programs in your state. Usually, registered nursing programs are found in community colleges or universities, although they may sometimes be found in vocational or technical training schools.

2. Select a few programs that you would like to attend and make sure you have the prerequisite courses required for admission to those programs. Usually you will need to have good grades in several college science courses, such as biology and chemistry, as well as grades in college English and a few other courses. You may also need to have completed CPR certification. Requirements vary by program.

3. Apply to the programs you selected in Step 2. Most programs only accept new applicants in the spring or fall semesters. It can be a wise move to apply to more than one school, because admission is frequently quite competitive, so you will boost your chances of being accepted if you apply to multiple schools.

4. Complete the accredited program to which you have been accepted. You will need a minimum of an associate's degree in nursing to be eligible to work as an RN.

5. Submit an application for an RN license to your state board of nursing. Expect to pay a fee and submit proof of graduation from your training program.

6. Take the NCLEX licensing exam for registered nurses and obtain a passing score. Application to take the NCLEX licensing exam is usually completed in conjunction with your application to your state board of nursing, and upon receiving a passing score, you will be granted a nursing license.

7. Begin applying for jobs as a registered nurse. Check with online job search sites or apply directly to local hospitals or other healthcare providers. There are also numerous health career recruiters who may be able to help you find employment.

Tips & Warnings

• Having documented volunteer work or work experience in a healthcare setting may boost your odds of being admitted to nursing school, especially if the program to which you are applying requires letters of recommendation in the application package. Once you have some experience working as a registered nurse, you can advance your career by seeking further education and gaining new responsibilities.