An enquiry on the duration of a degree programme in nursing in the U.S.A

Published

Hello, please how long does it take to complete a degree programme in nursing in the U.S.A?

Specializes in OR, Nursing Professional Development.

That would depend on the type of program. Nurses can enter the field with a diploma, associates, bachelors, or masters degree. Then there's also the consideration of the requirements to apply to a nursing program, such as the completion of prerequisite classes like anatomy & physiology and microbiology. There's really just not one answer because it will vary based on how many prerequisite classes a student takes at a time and the type of nursing program.

Anywhere between 2 and 4 years to become a registered nurse.

To become a registered nurse you need to hold an associates degree or a bachelor's degree. Associates take 2 years, bachelor's take 4.

A LVN (licenced vocational nurse - not RN) can typically be completed in 1 year.

Many nurses also choose to extend their education and receive masters in nursing (MSN) which is an additional 2 years after a bachelor's degree or even doctorates in Nursing (DON) which is an additional 4 years after a bachelor's degree.

The vast majority of those we think of when the word 'Nurse' comes up are Registered Nurses (RN's) and those degrees are between 2 and 4 years, on average.

That would depend on the type of program. Nurses can enter the field with a diploma, associates, bachelors, or masters degree. Then there's also the consideration of the requirements to apply to a nursing program, such as the completion of prerequisite classes like anatomy & physiology and microbiology. There's really just not one answer because it will vary based on how many prerequisite classes a student takes at a time and the type of nursing program.

Some ADN programs really are two years, and 2 years only. My program for example, allows you to take your 'pre reqs' while in the nursing program. Including AP 1&2. They STRONGLY suggest you complete those courses prior to the program starting, but it is possible to complete it 100% in 2 years.

Thanks @ Rose_Queen and Mkakids, i now understand. It's the same in my country, i thought it was different.

+ Join the Discussion