I'm a second-degree student too. I simply saved money to pay for tuition in full, and found the least expensive program in my area. I took pre-requisites at community college. I disagree with the other posters who think student loans are a better idea than dipping into your 401K. I did not have to touch my 401K but I would sooner do that then get into debt. Student loans are bad news, you can't discharge them in bankruptcy, and if you don't pay they will garnish your wages, repo your car, destroy your credit, even revoke your nursing license (depending on the state). I'd rather pay myself back in my 401K than be harassed by creditor collections companies every day.
If I were you I'd save and then do an ADN program at community college. Then you can do an RN-BSN bridge online through your state university system. That is the absolutely best bargain and cheapest way to become a nurse.