Many people didn’t understand the importance of essential workers until the global pandemic a few years ago. Imagine how many people would have died without doctors and registered nurses treating them. These individuals dedicate time and energy to caring for patients and saving lives. Countless individuals wish to become nurses today because they want to help others and appreciate the job security and relatively high pay that come with this career.
Each state determines its requirements for registered nurse licensure, but all require individuals to earn a degree from among the many accredited nursing schools and pass the national licensure exam. Men and women who start this process when they are young can obtain their degree and begin their career quickly. However, a person can choose to become a licensed nurse at any age. There will always be a need for these individuals, so it’s never too late to enter this field.
Educational Requirements
Attending an accredited nursing school is the first step to becoming a registered nurse. Most states require an individual to obtain their RN license from an accredited program. This individual can choose from an Associate in Nursing or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
A small percentage of nurses in 2022 held a nursing diploma. Over 35% of nurses had an associate’s degree, and 47% held a bachelor’s degree. Only 4% obtained their first nursing license with a master’s degree. Specific individuals benefit from the direct entry Master of Science in Nursing programs offered at some schools. Individuals who are changing careers and currently have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree may choose this option.
Although a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree is not currently required to work as a registered nurse, it may become a requirement in the near future. Furthermore, many employers now require nurses to have this degree because it demonstrates they have a broader knowledge of foundational nursing skills and are more competent, thanks to this higher education.
When choosing a nursing program, individuals must ensure their credits are accepted. Many programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the Accreditation Commission for Nursing Education. However, there may be state-specific accrediting agencies, and a potential student should check into those.
Successfully Pass the NCLEX
Upon completing their degree, an individual wishing to serve as a registered nurse must pass the NCLEX-RN. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing administers this exam. The successful completion of the exam is the next step in obtaining one’s state license. This exam was updated in 2023 to measure a potential nurse’s clinical judgment better. This exam can take up to 5 hours to complete, and 88% of candidates pass on the first try. However, they should take advantage of all available study resources before sitting for this exam.
State Licensure
Every nurse must be licensed in the state where they plan to practice. Each state determines its own licensure requirements, so individuals must check the nursing regulatory board in their state to learn these specific requirements. Most states now require an individual to have an accredited registered nurse diploma and a passing score on the NCLEX.
Registered nurses earn a good salary. Some individuals in this field make well over $100,000 a year. However, these individuals often work in areas with high living costs. Regardless, nurses know they have outstanding job security, as the need for these medical professionals only continues to grow. Any person interested in a career as a registered nurse should learn more about the requirements of achieving this goal, as working as a nurse comes with rewards well beyond the pay and job security.
