Nursing Programs & Degrees
When considering a future nursing career, it's important to explore the different nursing programs available and the paths they offer. With various options like associate degree programs, bachelor's degree programs, and direct-entry master's degree programs, prospective students can choose the educational path that best suits their goals and interests.
Starting Out
Certificate
A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) program is the fastest way to a nursing career. You could be working as a nurse within a year.Course Length
9–12 months
Expected Salary
$29k–$50k
Benefits
Bachelor’s Degree
If you want to go further, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is the best choice. A BSN degree is the stepping stone to many opportunities and top positions.Course Length
4 years
Expected Salary
$45k–$85k
Benefits
Associate’s Degrees
An Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) is a solid foundation that will prepare you to enter the nursing field and advance your career.Course Length
2–4 years
Expected Salary
$53k–$73k
Benefits
Post Graduate
Accelerated Bachelor’s
An Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) is a shortcut if you have a degree in another field. An ABSN program can put you on the fast track to becoming a nurse.Course Length
11–18 months
Expected Salary
$45k–$85k
Benefits
Master’s Degree
A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) will open up many opportunities and help you develop new skills. An MSN degree allows you to advance quickly in your career.Course Length
2 years
Expected Salary
$62k–$124k
Benefits
Doctoral Degree
A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) will take you into new disciplines, such as education, research and management.Course Length
4–6 years
Expected Salary
$68k–$125k
Benefits
”If you have another bachelor’s degree, nursing programs offer a way that you can go back to school and just complete the science portion, which means fewer classes.”
Jamie
Featured specialties
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)Explore the rewarding role of a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), encompassing key responsibilities and the impact on patient care. FNPs are central to long-term, personalized healthcare, often building lasting relationships with patients.
- Nurse ExecutiveA Nurse Executive holds a top position within a healthcare organization, making sure its goals and mission are carried out in day-to-day operations.
- Patient Blood Management NurseA Patient Blood Management Nurse is a member of the multidisciplinary care team whose goals are to preserve and optimize the health of patient blood by practicing Patient Blood Management (PBM). PBM is a patient-centered, systematic, evidence-based approach to the care of blood that focuses on anemia management and prevention of blood-loss and bleeding, with a focus on patient safety and empowerment.
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Certifications
You can become an expert in the areas of nursing that you’re most interested in by earning a nursing certificate in that specialty.