How do I become a registered nurse?

[LiSA MARiE 456]

Hello everyone!

I am 22 years old and I finally decided that I wanted to go school to be an RN. I went to San Diego MESA and MIRAMAR college and completed all my general ed and was taking criminal justice courses but decided that wasn't for me.

I am now starting fresh and want to know more information on how to be an RN! I am new to this and don't know anything or even know where to start. I called Grossmong Health and I am required to complete a CNA program before I even want to consider doing anything else. How long does it take to become a CNA and do I need to work at a facility for a certain amount of time before I can move on? Also am I required to take a LVN program? If it's not required, is it recommended?

I'm so confused... A few of my friends are nursing students but I get different responses from all of them! If someone could please clarify this for me and give me a quick run down of what I need to do to succeed! Thanks so much :wink2:

[NickiLaughs, ADN, BSN, RN]

Ok, different programs require different things. If you know your end goal is RN no matter what, then I would go to rn.ca.gov and review ALL the schools in your area that are accredited to deliver an RN degree.

There are several different ways to become an RN now a days. All of these programs, upon completion allow you to sign up to take your NCLEX, which is the board you must pass in order to actually be an RN. The different pathways include:

LVN to RN 30 unit option (only good in california, and you have to be an LVN first in order to attend)

Associate's Degree in Nursing (the traditional community college or trade school approach which tends to be two years after completion of all prerequisites, these also have the most applications on average and it is very competitive to get in)

Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (still have to complete most prerequisites prior, and somewhat competitive to get in)

Entry Level Master's Degree (must have a bachelors degree in any field first, and all prerequisites)

Lastly, Diploma programs, which are decreasing in number.

That could be party confusing, there are many different ways to become an RN!

You have stated that you completed all the prerequisites, at this point I would look at all the community colleges and universities in your area that offer nursing. You are going to want to apply to most of them to give yourself the best chance as nursing school is very competitive these days. I would contact each college and look at their prerequisites and other requirements, some require previous healthcare experience (such as volunteering or CNA), others may require some language classes, a TEAS test, etc. It just depends on the school.

Good luck!