College

If you"really having financial issues it might be best to take your first two years at a community college and get all of your general education courses (needed for a bachelors) and pre-nursing prerequisites completed. Then you could either transfer to a university with a BSN nursing program, or go for the cheap route which is your ADN (Associates Degree in Nursing). If you choose to get your associates in nursing then you can do a RN-BSN program, though if you live in a huge city then you may need to relocate as a new grad with an ADN.

But either way, you will become a RN with either an ADN or BSN.

I would go to community college for at least your prerequisites. It is so much cheaper than a university. While you're doing your prerequisites you can decide whether you want to go the ADN or the BSN route.

Definately go directly for nursing if you can. No sense in getting a biology degree - it will just as more time and expense to the journey. I second other suggestions that if finances are a serious issue for you going to a community college (usually MUCH cheaper) and doing your pre-reqs than transfer to a 4-year institution for BSN or applying to an ADN program at the community college would be a smart decision.

As for after college - you take and pass the NCLEX, which is the exam that licenses you as a registered nurse, and then look for a job!

You may also want to look into CNA training as a way to break into the health care profession, gain some experience while in school, and earn money while going to school. Most CNA training program are affordable (less than 1K) and last only a couple of months. Some skilled nursing facilities will even pay for training or refund education costs in exchange for working a certain length of time.

Are you in the US? If so, there are governmental subsidies - in the form of grants & financial aid - that are intended to assist students with financial needs. There is a FAFSA form you will need to fill out online.... HERE is the website. Entrance to nursing programs is very competitive. You'll need to work very hard to achieve excellent grades on all of your pre-requisite courses & any entrance test that is required.

Wishing you the best of luck on your nursing education journey.