Nursing Programs, Careers and Pay

Ways into nursing

1. 1

   Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

   A state-approved training program, usually a few weeks to a few months, followed by a state competency exam.

2. 2

   Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN/LVN)

   A practical nursing certificate or diploma, typically about a year, followed by the NCLEX-PN exam.

3. 3

   Registered Nurse with an ADN

   An Associate Degree in Nursing, typically about two years, followed by the NCLEX-RN exam.

4. 4

   Registered Nurse with a BSN

   A Bachelor of Science in Nursing, typically four years (shorter through RN-to-BSN or accelerated programs), followed by the NCLEX-RN exam.

5. 5

   Nurse Practitioner (NP)

   A graduate degree (MSN or DNP) for experienced RNs, followed by national certification in a specialty.

Nursing pay by state