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How long does it take to get a degree in nursing or any medical environment? What certifications do I need to be able to get a good job and salary in the medical field?
I'm trying to get a degree short term into nursing so I wonder how long it would take to reach that goal. I also wonder what kind of degree I need to get into it.
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There are actually a couple of different paths you can take to enter the nursing field, each with varying lengths of time to complete and certifications required. Here's a breakdown of the most common options:
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN):
Education: This typically takes around 1 year to complete through a diploma program at a vocational school or community college.
Certification: You'll need to pass the NCLEX-PN exam to become a licensed practical nurse.
Focus: LPNs provide basic patient care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or doctors. Tasks may include taking vital signs, administering medications, assisting with daily living activities, and monitoring patients.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN):
Education: An ADN program typically takes 2 years to complete at a community college or vocational school.
Certification: You'll need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a registered nurse.
Focus: RNs have a wider scope of practice than LPNs. They can administer medications, develop care plans, perform procedures, educate patients, and work more independently.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN):
Education: A BSN program is a four-year degree offered by universities and colleges.
Certification: You'll still need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a registered nurse.
Focus: A BSN degree provides a broader theoretical foundation and opens doors to leadership roles, specialization areas, and potentially higher earning potential. While not always required for entry-level RN positions, some employers may prefer candidates with a BSN.
So, how long will it take?
The fastest path to becoming a nurse is through an LPN program (around 1 year).
To become a registered nurse with more options and potentially higher salaries, an ADN program (2 years) or a BSN program (4 years) would be required.
Additional Certifications:
While not always mandatory for entry-level positions, certain certifications can enhance your resume, increase your earning potential, and qualify you for specialized nursing careers. Here are some examples:
Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA): A stepping stone to LPN or RN programs, providing basic patient care.
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): Advanced practice nurses who administer anesthesia.
Certified Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse (CNIC): Specializes in caring for critically ill newborns.
Finding the Right Path:
Consider your timeframe, career goals, and learning style when choosing a path. Talk to career counselors at your Job Corps center for guidance specific to your situation. They can help you explore program options, financial aid, and potential career paths within the medical field.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN):
Education: This typically takes around 1 year to complete through a diploma program at a vocational school or community college.
Certification: You'll need to pass the NCLEX-PN exam to become a licensed practical nurse.
Focus: LPNs provide basic patient care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or doctors. Tasks may include taking vital signs, administering medications, assisting with daily living activities, and monitoring patients.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN):
Education: An ADN program typically takes 2 years to complete at a community college or vocational school.
Certification: You'll need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a registered nurse.
Focus: RNs have a wider scope of practice than LPNs. They can administer medications, develop care plans, perform procedures, educate patients, and work more independently.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN):
Education: A BSN program is a four-year degree offered by universities and colleges.
Certification: You'll still need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a registered nurse.
Focus: A BSN degree provides a broader theoretical foundation and opens doors to leadership roles, specialization areas, and potentially higher earning potential. While not always required for entry-level RN positions, some employers may prefer candidates with a BSN.
So, how long will it take?
The fastest path to becoming a nurse is through an LPN program (around 1 year).
To become a registered nurse with more options and potentially higher salaries, an ADN program (2 years) or a BSN program (4 years) would be required.
Additional Certifications:
While not always mandatory for entry-level positions, certain certifications can enhance your resume, increase your earning potential, and qualify you for specialized nursing careers. Here are some examples:
Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA): A stepping stone to LPN or RN programs, providing basic patient care.
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): Advanced practice nurses who administer anesthesia.
Certified Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse (CNIC): Specializes in caring for critically ill newborns.
Finding the Right Path:
Consider your timeframe, career goals, and learning style when choosing a path. Talk to career counselors at your Job Corps center for guidance specific to your situation. They can help you explore program options, financial aid, and potential career paths within the medical field.