How To Become A Nurse

Your Path to a Career in Nursing

Few careers offer the unique combination of job security, meaningful work, and personal fulfillment that nursing provides. Every day, nurses save lives, comfort patients, educate families, and serve as the backbone of healthcare systems worldwide. If you’ve ever felt drawn to helping others during their most vulnerable moments, nursing might be your calling.

The numbers tell a compelling story. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects nursing jobs will grow much faster than average through 2032, with hundreds of thousands of new positions opening as the population ages and healthcare needs expand. Nurses are in demand everywhere—hospitals, clinics, schools, corporate settings, and even patients’ homes.

But becoming a nurse isn’t just about job security. It’s about making a tangible difference. Nurses are often the healthcare professionals patients interact with most. They’re the ones holding hands during difficult diagnoses, explaining treatment plans, catching critical changes in patient conditions, and providing care that extends far beyond medical procedures.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming a nurse:

• The different types of nurses and career paths available
• Educational requirements from high school through advanced degrees
• Licensing exams and certification processes
• Skills and qualities that make successful nurses
• What to expect during nursing school
• Career outlook and salary expectations
• How to land your first nursing job
• Paths for advancing your nursing career

Whether you’re a high school student planning your future, a career changer seeking meaningful work, or someone exploring healthcare options, this guide will give you a clear roadmap to entering one of the most respected and needed professions.

Let’s start your nursing journey.

Types of Nurses and Career Paths

Nursing isn’t a single job—it’s a diverse profession with multiple entry points, specializations, and advancement opportunities. Understanding your options helps you choose the path that fits your goals.

LPN/LVN: Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse

LPNs (called LVNs in California and Texas) provide basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians.

What they do:

• Monitor patient health
• Administer basic medications
• Assist with daily living activities
• Update medical records
• Communicate patient status to RNs

Education required: 12-month certificate program
Average salary: $54,000-$60,000
Best for: Those wanting quick entry into nursing with plans to advance later

RN: Registered Nurse

Registered nurses form the largest segment of the nursing workforce and have broader responsibilities than LPNs.

What they do:

• Assess patient conditions
• Develop and implement care plans
• Administer medications and treatments
• Coordinate with healthcare teams
• Educate patients and families

Education options:

• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): 2-3 years
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): 4 years

BSN: The Bachelor’s Advantage

While both ADN and BSN graduates can become RNs, the industry increasingly favors BSN-prepared nurses.

Why BSN matters:

• Required for many hospital positions
• Higher starting salaries
• Better advancement opportunities
• Required for graduate nursing programs
• Magnet hospitals often require 80%+ BSN staff

Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs)

APRNs hold graduate degrees and have expanded clinical responsibilities:

Nurse Practitioner (NP): Diagnose conditions, prescribe medications, manage patient care independently in many states

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): Administer anesthesia, among the highest-paid nursing roles

Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM): Provide prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care

Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): Expert practitioners in specialized areas who improve patient outcomes and mentor staff

Specialized Nursing Fields

Beyond these categories, nurses can specialize in numerous areas:

• Critical care/ICU nursing
• Emergency room nursing
• Pediatric nursing
• Oncology nursing
• Psychiatric/mental health nursing
• Operating room nursing
• Labor and delivery nursing
• Travel nursing
• School nursing
• Home health nursing

Each specialty offers unique challenges, rewards, and career trajectories.

Educational Requirements

The path to becoming a nurse involves specific educational milestones. Here’s what you need at each stage.

High School Preparation

Start building your foundation early:

Essential courses:

• Biology, chemistry, anatomy
• Mathematics (algebra, statistics)
• English and communication
• Psychology (if available)

Helpful activities:

• Volunteer at hospitals or nursing homes
• Join health-focused clubs
• Take AP science courses
• Consider CNA certification for early experience

Nursing Diploma Programs

The traditional hospital-based diploma programs still exist but are increasingly rare.

Duration: 2-3 years
Pros: Clinical focus, hospital-based training
Cons: Limited advancement options, fewer available programs

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

The most common entry point for RNs, offered at community colleges.

Duration: 2-3 years
Cost: $10,000-$40,000 typically
Pros: Lower cost, faster entry, widely available
Cons: May need BSN later for advancement

Curriculum includes:

• Anatomy and physiology
• Microbiology
• Nursing fundamentals
• Pharmacology
• Clinical rotations

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The four-year degree increasingly preferred by employers.

Duration: 4 years
Cost: $40,000-$200,000+ depending on institution
Pros: Better job prospects, higher pay, advancement ready
Cons: Higher cost, longer time commitment

Additional coursework beyond ADN:

• Research methods
• Community health
• Leadership and management
• More extensive clinical hours

Accelerated BSN Programs

For those who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field.

Duration: 12-18 months
Intensity: Very high (often full-time plus)
Best for: Career changers with existing degrees

These programs are rigorous but offer the fastest path to BSN for second-career nurses.

RN-to-BSN Programs

For working RNs with ADN who want to earn their bachelor’s degree.

Duration: 1-2 years part-time
Format: Often online or hybrid
Many employers: Offer tuition assistance for this advancement

Online vs. Traditional Programs

Online nursing education has expanded significantly:

What can be done online:

• Theory courses
• RN-to-BSN completion
• Some graduate coursework

What requires in-person:

• Clinical rotations (always)
• Lab skills training
• Initial hands-on competencies

Hybrid programs combining online coursework with local clinical placements offer flexibility for many students.

Licensing and Certification

Completing your education is just the first step. You must also pass licensing exams and meet state requirements to practice.

The NCLEX Examination

The National Council Licensure Examination is the gateway to nursing practice.

NCLEX-PN: For LPN/LVN candidates
NCLEX-RN: For registered nurse candidates

Exam format:

• Computer adaptive testing (CAT)
• 75-145 questions for NCLEX-RN
• Tests clinical judgment and decision-making
• Pass/fail result (no numerical score)

Preparation strategies:

• Use reputable NCLEX prep courses
• Practice thousands of questions
• Focus on understanding rationales
• Simulate test conditions
• Manage test anxiety

Pass rates: First-time pass rates for BSN graduates typically exceed 90%; ADN graduates average around 85%

State Licensing Requirements

Each state has its own Board of Nursing that issues licenses.

General requirements:

• Graduate from approved nursing program
• Pass NCLEX examination
• Background check clearance
• Application and fees

Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC):

• Allows nurses to practice in multiple states with one license
• Currently 40+ participating states
• Significant advantage for travel nursing

Specialty Certifications

Beyond basic licensure, certifications demonstrate expertise:

Popular certifications:

• CCRN: Critical Care Registered Nurse
• CEN: Certified Emergency Nurse
• OCN: Oncology Certified Nurse
• CNOR: Certified Perioperative Nurse
• RNC-OB: Inpatient Obstetric Nursing

Benefits of certification:

• Higher salaries (typically 5-15% increase)
• Professional recognition
• Demonstrated commitment to specialty
• Often required for advanced positions

Maintaining Licensure

Nursing licenses aren’t permanent—they require ongoing maintenance.

Typical requirements:

• Renewal every 2-4 years depending on state
• Continuing education hours (varies by state)
• Practice hour requirements in some states
• Renewed background checks

Continuing education options:

• Conferences and workshops
• Online courses
• Professional organization programs
• Employer-provided training

Stay current with your state’s requirements to avoid license lapses.

Skills and Qualities Needed for Nursing

Success in nursing requires more than academic knowledge. The best nurses combine clinical competence with personal qualities that enhance patient care.

Clinical Skills

Technical abilities you’ll develop:

• Patient assessment and vital signs
• Medication administration
• IV insertion and management
• Wound care
• Patient monitoring technology
• Electronic health records documentation
• Emergency response procedures

These skills are taught in nursing programs and refined through clinical experience.

Soft Skills and Emotional Intelligence

Communication:

• Clear explanations to patients and families
• Accurate reporting to healthcare teams
• Active listening
• Delivering difficult news compassionately

Critical thinking:

• Analyzing complex patient situations
• Making quick decisions under pressure
• Prioritizing multiple patients’ needs
• Recognizing subtle changes in conditions

Empathy and compassion:

• Connecting with patients as individuals
• Providing comfort during difficult times
• Maintaining compassion despite heavy workloads
• Cultural sensitivity and respect

Physical Demands

Nursing is physically demanding work:

• Long shifts (often 12 hours)
• Extended time on your feet
• Lifting and moving patients
• Quick response to emergencies
• Working nights, weekends, and holidays

Physical stamina and self-care practices are essential for longevity in the profession.

Mental and Emotional Resilience

The psychological challenges:

• Witnessing suffering and death
• High-stress environments
• Difficult family interactions
• Moral distress in complex situations
• Burnout risk

Building resilience:

• Developing healthy coping mechanisms
• Seeking peer support
• Setting professional boundaries
• Practicing self-care
• Accessing mental health resources when needed

Not everyone is suited for nursing’s emotional demands. Honest self-assessment helps you determine if this career aligns with your strengths.

The Nursing School Experience

Nursing school is notoriously challenging. Knowing what to expect helps you prepare and succeed.

What to Expect in Nursing Programs

Academic rigor:

• Heavy course loads
• Complex material requiring memorization and application
• Frequent exams and assessments
• Group projects and presentations

Time commitment:

• Full-time students spend 40-60 hours weekly on school
• Clinical rotations add significant hours
• Study time demands are high

Cohort model:

• You’ll progress with the same group of students
• Strong peer relationships develop
• Competition and collaboration coexist

Clinical Rotations

The hands-on portion of nursing education is where theory becomes practice.

What rotations involve:

• Supervised patient care in healthcare facilities
• Exposure to different specialties
• Applying classroom learning to real situations
• Documentation and professional behavior

Common rotation areas:

• Medical-surgical units
• Pediatrics
• Obstetrics
• Psychiatric/mental health
• Community health
• Critical care (in some programs)

Making the most of clinicals:

• Ask questions—instructors expect it
• Volunteer for procedures
• Build relationships with staff nurses
• Reflect on each experience

Study Tips for Nursing Students

Effective strategies:

• Active learning over passive reading
• Practice questions (NCLEX-style)
• Study groups for complex topics
• Concept mapping for connections
• Teaching others to reinforce learning
• Prioritizing understanding over memorization

Time management:

• Use a detailed calendar
• Break large tasks into smaller pieces
• Protect study time
• Don’t neglect self-care

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Information overload: Focus on core concepts first, then details

Test anxiety: Practice under test conditions; develop relaxation techniques

Clinical nervousness: Preparation and practice build confidence

Work-life balance: Set boundaries; communicate with family about demands

Imposter syndrome: Remember everyone struggles; seek support

Nursing school is hard—but thousands graduate successfully every year. You can too.

Career Outlook and Salary Expectations

Nursing offers strong financial rewards and exceptional job security. Here’s what to expect.

Job Growth Projections

The nursing shortage is real and growing:

• RN job growth: 6% projected 2022-2032 (faster than average)
• Nurse practitioner growth: 38% projected—one of the fastest-growing occupations
• Aging population: Driving healthcare demand
• Nursing retirements: Creating additional openings

Translation: Nursing jobs will be available for the foreseeable future.

Salary Ranges by Type and Location

Average salaries (2024 data):

Nursing Role	Average Annual Salary
LPN/LVN	$54,000-$60,000
RN (ADN)	$77,000-$85,000
RN (BSN)	$80,000-$95,000
Nurse Practitioner	$120,000-$130,000
CRNA	$200,000-$220,000

Geographic variation matters significantly:

• California, Massachusetts, and Hawaii pay highest
• Rural areas often pay less but have lower cost of living
• Urban hospitals typically pay more than rural facilities

Factors Affecting Nursing Salaries

Experience:

• Entry-level nurses start lower
• Significant increases in first 5-10 years
• Experienced nurses command premium pay

Specialty:

• ICU, ER, and OR nurses earn more
• Travel nursing pays significant premiums
• Advanced practice roles pay most

Setting:

• Hospitals typically pay more than clinics
• Government positions offer strong benefits
• Private practice varies widely

Shift differentials:

• Night shifts pay extra (typically 10-15% more)
• Weekend differentials common
• Holiday pay often time-and-a-half or more

Benefits and Job Security

Beyond salary, nursing offers:

• Comprehensive health insurance
• Retirement plans
• Tuition reimbursement
• Flexible scheduling options
• Union representation in many settings
• Near-guaranteed employment

The combination of strong pay, excellent benefits, and job security makes nursing financially attractive.

Landing Your First Nursing Job

You’ve graduated and passed the NCLEX. Now it’s time to start your career. Here’s how to land that first position.

Building Your Nursing Resume

Even new graduates have relevant experience:

Include:

• Clinical rotation experiences
• Capstone projects
• CNA or healthcare experience
• Certifications (BLS, ACLS)
• Relevant volunteer work
• Academic achievements

Format tips:

• Lead with education for new grads
• List clinical hours and settings
• Highlight any specialty exposure
• Keep to one page initially

Consider building a professional portfolio showcasing clinical projects, certifications, and any patient care examples (with appropriate privacy considerations). Platforms like 0portfolio.com can help you create a polished presentation of your nursing credentials and achievements.

New Graduate Programs

Many hospitals offer residency programs for new nurses:

What they provide:

• Extended orientation (often 6-12 months)
• Mentorship from experienced nurses
• Gradual increase in patient responsibility
• Additional education and support

Benefits:

• Smoother transition to practice
• Lower burnout rates
• Better long-term retention
• Networking within the organization

Competition: These programs are competitive—apply early and to multiple facilities

Interview Tips for Nursing Positions

Prepare for:

• Behavioral questions (“Tell me about a time…”)
• Clinical scenario questions
• Questions about difficult situations
• Why this specialty/unit/hospital

Strong approaches:

• Use STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result)
• Draw on clinical rotation experiences
• Show enthusiasm for learning
• Ask thoughtful questions about the unit

Professional presentation:

• Conservative professional attire
• Research the facility beforehand
• Bring copies of credentials
• Follow up with thank-you notes

Networking in Healthcare

Relationships matter in nursing job searches:

• Connect with nurses you met during clinicals
• Join professional nursing organizations
• Attend nursing job fairs
• Use LinkedIn for healthcare connections
• Stay in touch with classmates

Many nursing positions are filled through referrals and relationships rather than job postings.

Advancing Your Nursing Career

Your first nursing job is just the beginning. Multiple advancement paths exist for motivated nurses.

Specialization Options

After gaining experience, many nurses specialize:

High-demand specialties:

• Critical care nursing
• Emergency nursing
• Operating room nursing
• Oncology nursing
• Pediatric nursing

Emerging specialties:

• Informatics nursing
• Telehealth nursing
• Forensic nursing
• Genetics nursing

Specialization typically requires additional certification and experience in the area.

Advanced Degrees

Graduate education opens new opportunities:

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN):

• Nurse Practitioner preparation
• Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Nurse Educator
• Nurse Administrator

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP):

• Highest clinical nursing degree
• Required for NP in some programs
• Leadership and system-level roles

PhD in Nursing:

• Research-focused degree
• Academic and research careers
• Policy and leadership positions

Leadership and Management Paths

Nurses can move into leadership without advanced clinical practice:

Positions:

• Charge nurse
• Unit manager
• Director of nursing
• Chief Nursing Officer

Skills needed:

• Management and leadership training
• Business and healthcare administration
• Communication and conflict resolution
• Strategic thinking

Entrepreneurship in Nursing

Nurses increasingly create their own opportunities:

• Legal nurse consulting
• Private practice (NPs)
• Health coaching
• Nursing education businesses
• Healthcare consulting
• Medical writing
• Expert witness work

Your nursing knowledge is valuable beyond traditional employment settings.

Your Nursing Journey Starts Now

Becoming a nurse is a significant commitment—but it’s one of the most rewarding career decisions you can make.

Here’s the path we’ve outlined:

1. Choose your entry point: LPN, ADN, or BSN based on your situation and goals
2. Complete your education: Rigorous but achievable with dedication
3. Pass the NCLEX: Preparation is key to success
4. Obtain licensure: Meet your state’s requirements
5. Land your first job: Leverage clinical experience and networking
6. Build your career: Specialize, advance, and grow continuously

The Impact You’ll Make

Numbers can describe the career—but they can’t capture its meaning.

As a nurse, you’ll be there when:

• A child takes their first steps after surgery
• A family receives difficult news and needs support
• A patient’s condition changes and quick action saves their life
• An elderly patient needs someone who genuinely cares
• A new mother holds her baby for the first time

These moments don’t appear on salary surveys or job projections. But they’re why people become nurses—and why they stay.

Taking the First Step

The nursing shortage means opportunities are abundant. Healthcare needs people like you—people drawn to meaningful work, capable of handling challenges, and committed to making a difference.

Whatever your starting point, a path exists:

• High school students can begin preparing now
• Career changers have accelerated options
• Those seeking advancement can pursue graduate education

The journey is challenging. Nursing school is demanding. The work itself is hard. But millions of nurses will tell you: it’s worth it.

Your patients are waiting. Start your nursing journey today.