About Non-Bachelor's Degree Nursing Programs

If you want to become a nurse, there are several nursing courses you can follow. The longest and most time-consuming is the BSN degree; however, there are options that will allow you to become a nurse but do not lead to a bachelor of science in nursing degree. Here are your options for non-bachelor's degree nursing programs:

-Nurse's Aide. You can become a nurse's aide in about a year, taking courses from adult education centers. You will be a certified nurse's aide and will usually work closely with a RN or physician.

-LPN/LVN. You can become a licensed practical or licensed vocational nurse in about a year. LPN/LVN programs are available through hospitals, adult educational centers, and vocational/technical schools. You will be able to assist nurses with their duties and provide healthcare for people in hospitals, nursing homes, and other facilities.

-RN with an associate's degree. You can become an RN by getting an associate's degree from a junior college or community college. You will have the same rights and privileges as an RN with a BSN, but you may have less career advancement opportunities.