I have my GED and I'm signing up for nursing program pre-reqs on Monday. I'm wondering who else chose a career in nursing with a GED, and how long the pre-reqs took you. I've been out of school for 10 years now and have to start at the very bottom.

I'm a Registered Nurse now, but I was out of school for about 12 years after getting my GED before I decided to go into Nursing. I think it took a couple years to do all my prerequisites, but that is because I would take only one or two classes a semester. If I had taken classes on a full time basis I would have been done a lot sooner. But with a husband and 3 kids, my time was kind of limited.

I have an Associate Degree right now, but I'm currently pursuing my BSN. I chose to go this route because it was quicker, and also because I wanted to work and gain experience while finishing school. If you have the opportunity to get your BSN, I'd definitely recommend that you go that route. The hospital I work for had me sign an agreement that I would get my BSN within 5 years of being hired, but they also offer tuition reimbursement, so it still works out for me. Good luck!

It took me 3+ years to do all my pre reqs which included English, math, child development, communications, psychology, ect because those classes on top of the anatomy, physio and micro are needed to apply to the program I got accepted in.

It took me a little over a year to complete my pre-reqs and that's really only because I had to take remedial math classes before I could take college algebra. Good luck to you!

Good day, user_rachael:

I returned to school (for nursing) after almost 30 years of being out of school. If you are ok going through the summer, and are ok with doing 9 to 14 credits per semester, then you can complete the prerequisites in one year. Otherwise, you are looking at two or more based on how many classes you can take per semester. Schools do vary based on what is and is not a prerequisite for nursing; and some schools have prerequisites for graduating (ours has a fitness class requirement and a public speaking class requirement in order to graduate). Common to almost any school for the nursing prerequisites are anatomy and physiology (I and II) and Microbiology.

Thank you.

I've been out of school for almost 20 years. Returned last August and have been doing fine. A GED will not hamper you at all. Just make sure you only take on what you can handle and do well in the prereqs. Nursing programs are extremely competitive and you need to do well to get in.

I have been out of school for about 9 yrs and received my ged about 3 yrs ago. I recently decided to pursue a nursing career beginning with LPN. After I'm done I will complete a bridge program to RN. Pre reqs should only take about a year if u can be completely dedicated(including summer).

An acquaintance was unable to finish the application process to a top tier RN program because they refused to acknowledge her GED and subsequent with highest honors, associate's degree. Every time she engaged with them, they demanded her high school transcripts and refused to deal with the fact that she did not attend high school. I would name the school, but assume it is most likely not on your radar. As previously stated, you should encounter few, if any problems, with your academic future. Good luck.

Hello!! Whether a GED or a high school diploma you will be great in college!!! Put your mind to anything and you achieve the ultimate goal, becoming a R.N. You got this, Good luck!!!!

Thanks for the information and support everyone!

I know two Chief Nursing Officers who began their nursing education journey with GEDs. It wasn't a problem for either of them. They both have MSNs & one also has a PhD.

You can do this.