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How to Become a Registered Nurse (RN): What You Need to Know

Your career as an RN begins with your education. Discover what it takes to become an RN, and begin planning your first steps down this rewarding career path.

Discover what you need to do to become an RN

We commend your desire to join the rewarding, fulfilling RN profession, working firsthand to help people heal and make a significant impact in your community. Our goal is to support your pursuit of this wonderful career path.

The best way to get started to become a registered nurse is to fully understand what you’re getting into and begin considering your nursing education. Earning an undergraduate nursing degree represents the biggest step to becoming a licensed RN qualified to practice as an RN.

Here are the key steps to take to become a registered nurse:

1. Know the role: what to expect as an RN

Registered nurses are the backbone of the day-to-day operations in many different types of healthcare settings. You’ll wear a lot of hats and be expected to handle a wide variety of tasks, including:

  • Develop and direct treatment plans
  • Communicate with patients and family members
  • Administer medication and treatments
  • Perform diagnostic tests
  • Operate medical equipment
  • Community-based work, including public health education and services
  • Serve as the key connection between patients and doctors

Keep in mind no job description is identical. Your specific roles and responsibilities will vary depending on your education, experience level, and requirements of your employer.

RNs may specialize in many different areas, including pediatrics, geriatrics, OBGYN, ER, trauma and much more. As you develop more experience you may discover certain types of care or patient populations that interest you more than others.

The field of nursing offers many unique career opportunities for those looking to specialize, and oftentimes you can be qualified to pursue these unique pathways with a BSN and experience. In some cases, like becoming a nurse practitioner, you will be required to earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).

RN level designations

In the future, when you’re ready to begin looking for your first job, you’ll want to look for “RN 1” or “RN I” positions. These designations are usually made for new grads with very little or no experience as a professional RN.

What’s the difference between RN 1, RN 2 (II), RN 3 (III), etc.? The differences between one level to the next vary by hospital/institution. Typically, a mix of experience, tasks you can perform, and roles and responsibilities dictate your RN level.

2. Choose your career pathway

Now that you have a better understanding of what it’s like to work as an RN, take a moment to confirm you’re ready to fully commit to this career. If you’re looking for the fastest path to a job as a nurse, the prospect of going back to school for 2-3 years before getting there may feel daunting.

There are other jobs in nursing you might consider before pursuing a job as an RN:

  • Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). CNAs are tasked with basic patient care activities, such as bathing, getting dressed, using the toilet, and eating and drinking. CNA training can be completed quickly, and you could potentially be working as a CNA in a matter of months depending on your state.
  • Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN, or Licensed Vocational Nurse - LVN). Becoming a practical nurse can be a great first step for those who want to get started faster in nursing. It typically only takes 12 months to complete a practical nursing (PN) diploma program, and you can potentially transfer credit into an RN program in the future—or enroll in an LPN to RN bridge program. We offer programs to students looking to go from LPN to Associate in Nursing (ASN) or LPN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

Keep in mind that while pursuing these paths may get you to work and making money faster, your earning potential increases considerably by becoming an RN, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):*

Average Salary Estimates, Bureau of Labor Statistics

Job / CareerPer yearPer hour
Nursing Assistants (BLS)$39,610$19.04
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses (BLS)$60,790$29.23
Registered Nurses (BLS)$94,480$45.42

You’ll want to weigh the pros and cons of how much you can potentially make vs. how much time it takes to begin working in the field in a nursing role.

If you’re confident you want to begin working towards becoming an RN right away, beginning to earn the undergraduate education you need to sit for the NCLEX-RN represents the quickest path to begin seeking an RN job.

3. Earn an undergraduate degree in nursing

Ready to begin?

Prepare for nursing school!

Nursing school can be a challenge—but the challenge is what prepares you best to succeed in your later career. We always strive for a steady balance: the curriculum and clinical experiences equip you with the skills and knowledge to truly excel while providing extensive resources to ensure things never get too overwhelming.

RN requirements: what degree do I need?

You can’t become a registered nurse without first earning a nursing degree.

To qualify for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), you’ll need to apply/register to the Board of Nursing for clearance and earn either:

You may choose an on-campus undergraduate nursing program, available at select campus locations; or, you may apply for one of our online nursing program options built for non-nurses (eligibility in select U.S. states).

Herzing University program availability in each U.S. state

Become an RN in Alabama with Herzing University

You can choose our Associate of Science in Nursing program at our Birmingham campus. You may also be eligible for our online Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, or our online MSN Direct Entry program for those who hold a bachelor’s degree in another field.

On-campus options:

Online options:

Learn more about RN requirements in Alabama from the Alabama Board of Nursing website.

Becoming an RN in Alaska

Currently, residents of Alaska are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in Alaska from the Alaska Board of Nursing website.

Becoming an RN in Arizona

Currently, residents of Arizona are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in Arizona from the Arizona State Board of Nursing website.

Becoming an RN in Arkansas

Currently, residents of Arkansas are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in Arkansas from the Arkansas State Board of Nursing website.

Becoming an RN in California

Currently, residents of California are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in California from the California Board of Registered Nursing website.

Become an RN in Colorado with Herzing University

Residents of Colorado may be eligible for our online Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. Current bachelor’s degree holders in another field may be eligible for our online MSN Direct Entry program.

Learn more about RN requirements in Colorado from the Colorado Board of Nursing website.

Becoming an RN in Connecticut

Currently, residents of Connecticut are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in Connecticut from the Connecticut Board of Examiners for Nursing website.

Becoming an RN in Delaware

Currently, residents of Delaware are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in Delaware from the Delaware Board of Nursing website.

Becoming an RN in DC

Currently, residents of the District of Columbia are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in DC from the DC Health Board of Nursing website.

Become an RN in Florida with Herzing University

Florida residents have several program options. You may choose on-campus associate or bachelor’s degree programs in either Orlando or Tampa—or choose online pathways across multiple degree levels. Bridge options are available for LPNs and select healthcare professionals.

On-campus options:

Online options:

Learn more about RN requirements in Florida from the Florida Board of Nursing website.

Become an RN in Georgia with Herzing University

Residents of Georgia may be eligible for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at our Atlanta campus. Current bachelor’s degree holders in another field may be eligible for our online MSN Direct Entry program.

On-campus program:

Online options:

Learn more about RN requirements in Georgia from the Georgia Board of Nursing website.

Becoming an RN in Hawaii

Currently, residents of Hawaii are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in Hawaii from the Hawaii Board of Nursing website.

Become an RN in Idaho with Herzing University

Residents of Idaho may be eligible for the online Associate of Science in Nursing program.

Learn more about RN requirements in Idaho from the Idaho Board of Nursing website.

Become an RN in Illinois with Herzing University

Residents of Illinois may be eligible for one of several of our online nursing programs across multiple degree levels.

Learn more about RN requirements in Illinois from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation website.

Become an RN in Indiana with Herzing University

Residents of Indiana may be eligible for one of several of our online nursing programs across multiple degree levels.

Learn more about RN requirements in Indiana from the Indiana State Board of Nursing website.

Become an RN in Iowa with Herzing University

Residents of Iowa may be eligible for one of several of our online nursing programs across multiple degree levels.

Learn more about RN requirements in Iowa from the Iowa Board of Nursing website.

Become an RN in Kansas with Herzing University

Residents of Kansas may be eligible for one of several of our online nursing programs across multiple degree levels.

Learn more about RN requirements in Kansas from the Kansas State Board of Nursing website.

Become an RN in Kentucky with Herzing University

Residents of Kentucky may be eligible for one of several of our online nursing programs across multiple degree levels.

Learn more about RN requirements in Kentucky from the Kentucky Board of Nursing website.

Become an RN in Louisiana with Herzing University

Residents of Louisiana may be eligible for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at our New Orleans campus. Current bachelor’s degree holders in another field may be eligible for our online MSN Direct Entry program.

Learn more about RN requirements in Louisiana from the Louisiana State Board of Nursing website.

Becoming an RN in Maine

Currently, residents of Maine are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in Maine from the Maine State Board of Nursing website.

Becoming an RN in Maryland

Currently, residents of Maryland are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in Maryland from the Maryland Board of Nursing website.

Becoming an RN in Massachusetts

Currently, residents of Massachusetts are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in Massachusetts from the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing website.

Become an RN in Michigan with Herzing University

Residents of Michigan may be eligible for one of several of our online nursing programs across multiple degree levels.

Learn more about RN requirements in Michigan from the Michigan Board of Nursing website.

Become an RN in Minnesota with Herzing University

Minnesota residents have several program options. You may choose an on-campus bachelor’s degree program—or choose between multiple online options depending on your educational background. BSN bridge options are available for LPNs and select healthcare professionals.

On-campus options:

Online options:

Learn more about RN requirements in Minnesota from the Minnesota Board of Nursing website.

Becoming an RN in Mississippi

Currently, residents of Mississippi are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in Mississippi from the Mississippi Board of Nursing website.

Become an RN in Missouri with Herzing University

Residents of Missouri may be eligible for one of several of our online nursing programs across multiple degree levels.

Learn more about RN requirements in Missouri from the Missouri Board of Nursing website.

Become an RN in Montana with Herzing University

Residents of Montana may be eligible for the online Associate of Science in Nursing program.

Learn more about RN requirements in Montana from the Montana Board of Nursing website.

Become an RN in Nebraska with Herzing University

Residents of Nebraska may be eligible for one of several online nursing programs across multiple degree levels.

Learn more about RN requirements in Nebraska from the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services website.

Becoming an RN in Nevada

Currently, residents of Nevada are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in Nevada from the Nevada State Board of Nursing website.

Becoming an RN in New Hampshire

Currently, residents of New Hampshire are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in New Hampshire from the New Hampshire Board of Nursing website.

Becoming an RN in New Jersey

Currently, residents of New Jersey are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in New Jersey from the New Jersey Board of Nursing website.

Becoming an RN in New Mexico

Currently, residents of New Mexico are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in New Mexico from the New Mexico Board of Nursing website.

Becoming an RN in New York

Currently, residents of New York are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in New York from the New York State Education Department website.

Become an RN in North Carolina with Herzing University

Residents of North Carolina may be eligible for one of several online nursing programs across multiple degree levels.

Learn more about RN requirements in North Carolina from the North Carolina Board of Nursing website.

Becoming an RN in North Dakota

Currently, residents of North Dakota are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in North Carolina from the North Dakota Board of Nursing website.

Become an RN in Ohio with Herzing University

You can choose our Associate of Science in Nursing program at our Akron campus. You may also be eligible for our online Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, or our online MSN Direct Entry program for those who hold a bachelor’s degree in another field.

On-campus options:

Online options:

Learn more about RN requirements in Ohio from the Ohio Board of Nursing website.

Become an RN in Oklahoma with Herzing University

Residents of Oklahoma may be eligible for one of several online nursing programs across multiple degree levels.

Learn more about RN requirements in Oklahoma from the Oklahoma Board of Nursing website.

Becoming an RN in Oregon

Currently, residents of Oregon are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in Oregon from the Oregon State Board of Nursing website.

Becoming an RN in Pennsylvania

Currently, residents of Pennsylvania are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in Pennsylvania from the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing website.

Becoming an RN in Rhode Island

Currently, residents of Rhode Island are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in Rhode Island from the Rhode Island Board of Nursing website.

Become an RN in South Carolina with Herzing University

Residents of South Carolina may be eligible for one of several online nursing programs across multiple degree levels.

Learn more about RN requirements in South Carolina from the South Carolina Board of Nursing website.

Become an RN in South Dakota with Herzing University

Residents of South Dakota may be eligible for one of several online nursing programs across multiple degree levels.

Learn more about RN requirements in South Dakota from the South Dakota Board of Nursing website.

Become an RN in Tennessee with Herzing University

Tennessee residents have several program options. You may choose on-campus associate or bachelor’s degree programs in Nashville—or choose online pathways across multiple degree levels. Bridge options are available for LPNs and select healthcare professionals.

On-campus options:

Online options:

Learn more about RN requirements in Tennessee from the Tennessee Board of Nursing website.

Becoming an RN in Texas

Currently, residents of Texas are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in Texas from the Texas Board of Nursing website.

Becoming an RN in Utah

Currently, residents of Utah are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in Utah from the Utah Department of Commerce website.

Becoming an RN in Vermont

Currently, residents of Vermont are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in Vermont from the Vermont Office of Professional Regulation website.

Become an RN in Virginia with Herzing University

Residents of Virginia may be eligible for one of several online nursing programs across multiple degree levels.

Learn more about RN requirements in Virginia from the Virginia Board of Nursing website.

Becoming an RN in Washington

Currently, residents of Washington are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in Washington from the Washington State Board of Nursing website.

Becoming an RN in West Virginia

Currently, residents of West Virginia are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in West Virginia from the West Virginia RN Board website.

Become an RN in Wisconsin with Herzing University

Wisconsin residents have several program options. You may choose an on-campus bachelor’s degree program—or choose between multiple online options depending on your educational background. BSN bridge options are available for LPNs and select healthcare professionals.

On-campus options:

Online options:

Learn more about RN requirements in Wisconsin from the Wisconsin Board of Nursing website.

Becoming an RN in Wyoming

Currently, residents of Wyoming are not eligible to enroll in any of our undergraduate nursing or MSN Direct Entry programs.

Learn more about RN requirements in Wyoming from the Wyoming Board of Nursing website.

Which degree should I choose?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on your prior education, what your goals are in the field and how quickly you want to get started. Primary differences between earning an associate and bachelor’s degree in nursing include:

Kristen Dickerson, PhD, MSN, MPH, RN, MLT (ASCP) Lead Faculty (Public Health Nursing)

"Nursing is more than just a job; it's a calling that allows you to make a real difference in people’s lives every day. By caring for individuals, you’re also impacting families and communities, promoting health and well-being on a larger scale.

If you’re passionate about helping others and want to play a vital role in population health, nursing can be one of the most rewarding paths you can take."

Kristen Dickerson, PhD, MSN, MPH, RN, MLT (ASCP)

Lead Faculty (Public Health Nursing)

Dr. Kristen Dickerson has bachelor’s degrees in chemistry and microbiology from Ohio University. She has also received her master’s and doctorate in public health/epidemiology. Additionally, she has a master’s degree in public health nursing and has worked as an ER nurse and Infection Preventionist within the hospital systems. She has served in the US Army where she worked in biochemical warfare research and the US Public Health Service where she managed clinical operations for 100 occupational health clinics in the DC Metro region. For the state she has served as a Quality Improvement Coordinator working to improve clinical and mental health services for ODRC and was the Statewide Health, Wellness, and Special Programs Manager for BWC. She also served as the state epidemiologist and Chief for the Bureau of Infectious diseases at the Ohio Department of Health while teaching and developing content for the MPH program for Chamberlain School of Nursing. Currently, she is the lead faculty for the Master’s in Public Health Nursing Program at Herzing.

How long does it take to become an RN?

It can take anywhere from 16-36 months for you to earn a degree in nursing, depending on the track you choose, college coursework you’ve already completed, and the pace at which you choose to complete classes.

  • 20-24 months:
  • 20 months. Our ASN program for those new to nursing typically takes at least 20 months to complete. You can choose an on-campus program, or our online associate in nursing program, which is available in select U.S. states (average completion time of 24 months).
  • 28-32 months. LPNs/LVNs, paramedics, Respiratory Therapists (RT) and Cardiovascular Technicians (CVT) may also be eligible for bridge-style options at the BSN level as well.
  • 36 months. Students new to healthcare with no prior degree may qualify for our 3-year BSN program. Even if you didn’t finish your degree, you may be able to transfer up to 90 credits of prior college courses and lessen the time needed to complete your bachelor’s in nursing. You can choose an on-campus program, or our online BSN program for new nurses looking to become an RN.

There are two basic components of any undergraduate nursing degree curriculum: didactic/lecture-style courses, and clinicals designed to help you prepare for real practice as an RN.

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4. Gain hands-on experience in clinicals and simulations

Degree programs typically begin with didactic courses to help you establish key concepts and build a strong academic foundation.

Eventually, you’ll progress into clinicals and begin establishing a skillset preparing you to work as an RN. Clinicals and hands-on simulation represent a crucial component of your education.

While general education and didactic/lecture style nursing courses can be completed online, and virtual simulation can be an effective teaching tool, there is no replacement for hands-on laboratory and clinical experiences with the guidance of experienced, talented instructors.

Your clinical experience will help you to apply theory to practice and develop key leadership, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

What you learn during your clinicals will be key to passing the NCLEX and becoming qualified for your first job as an RN. It will also prepare you best to succeed in your future career right from the start.

The Student Experience at Herzing

Nursing school was the hardest thing I ever did in my life. The most challenging part, other than learning how to manage your time, is the clinicals. The instructors were great – very personable. The faculty and the admission staff very quickly became family.

Anthony Pierson
Nursing Student | Kenosha Campus

Being a mother and working full-time while going to school full-time was extremely taxing, but Herzing give me the resources and the support I needed to push through. I was able to complete my BSN in two years, and I will be re-enrolling with Herzing to earn my master’s in nursing (MSN) degree.

Carla Bourelly
Nursing Student | Atlanta Campus

Thanks to great teachers, programs, and hard work, I’ve been able to accomplish so much!

Marissa Sandnasamy
Nursing Student | Online Campus

The accelerated program is condensed but I knew if I could get through all of that, I would be able to handle anything my career threw at me. I’m so grateful to have the opportunity to save lives by providing patient care right there at the bedside.

Jordan Sharon
Nursing Student | Orlando Campus

5. Take the NCLEX-RN exam after you graduate

In order to become a registered nurse in the U.S. and Canada, you must first pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Graduates who successfully pass this national examination will be eligible to practice as registered nurses in the state in which they took the examination.

This exam is very different from those you will take in your nursing classes, so be sure to check out these NCLEX-RN study tips beforehand.

As a registered nurse, you have ample opportunities for advancement. After completing your bachelor’s degree in nursing, you can accelerate your career by earning a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and/or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) to position yourself for advanced practice, management and nursing faculty positions.

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Specialties

Discover opportunities for specialization in the future

After earning enough experience as a registered nurse, you can potentially find jobs in particular nursing specialties which best reflect your personal preferences and skills. Some employers may require unique certifications in certain specialty areas.

Potential specialties include:

6. Find your first job and begin your career

When you graduate from a nursing degree program, you’ll be ready to join the ranks of healthcare heroes helping those with sickness and illness get better. You will also be positioned for an exciting new career path with many opportunities for advancement.

Take your first step with Herzing University and team up with an institution with decades of experience helping students become excellent nurses.

Our mission is to support your career success, learning and engagement, from your first class to your pinning ceremony—and throughout your nursing career. Your new career path IS possible with Herzing!

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* Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics 2023 / Occupational Outlook Handbook 2022. BLS estimates do not represent entry-level wages and/or salaries. Multiple factors, including prior experience, age, geography market in which you want to work and degree field, will affect career outcomes and earnings. Herzing neither represents that its graduates will earn the average salaries calculated by BLS for a particular job nor guarantees that graduation from its program will result in a job, promotion, salary increase or other career growth.

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Classes start: May 5th

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