Types of Nursing Programs

The following is an overview of the different types of nursing programs – online or campus based:

1.  LPN or LVN

Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nursing (LVN) programs typically involve one year of training at a hospital, vocational technical school or community college. Graduates are eligible for licensure as an LPN or LVN after receiving their diploma or certificate. To earn an LPN license, you must pass a state administered nursing examination called the NCLEX-PN® examination.

2.  LPN to BSN

This program offers the licensed practical nurse or licensed vocational nurse (LVN) the opportunity to attain the BSN degree in just four academic semesters.

3.  Associate of Science (AS) in Nursing

The 2-year associate degree focuses more on technical skills than theory and for 30 percent of ASN graduates, it is their stepping stone to a BSN. It allows a student to become a Registered Nurse (RN) and earn money more quickly than a 4-year BSN program, so it works better for many students. It is the entry point for technical nursing practice.

4.  Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The 4-year BSN degree is preferred by most nursing leaders and provides the best opportunities in today’s job market. If you look at job postings, you’ll find that a BSN degree is a requirement for many positions. It is the entry point for professional nursing practice. Typically the first one to two years of the program are spent fulfilling general education requirements, while the last two to three years are spent on nursing courses.

5.  RN-to-BSN

This is a program designed for Registered Nurse graduates of associate degree or diploma programs who want to complete their BSN degree. It provides credit for nursing skills already learned through school or work experience. Most often these programs are available with a very flexible schedule designed to meet the needs of working nurses. Classes might meet only evenings or weekends. Some schools have “RN-only” classes which are separate from classes taught to pre-licensure students.

Several online RN-to-BSN programs are available. These programs are also known as Bridge Programs, BSN for RN’s, Completion Programs, Nursing Mobility in Education Programs, Advanced Placement, Advanced Standing, or Transition Options. Approximately 30 percent of BSN graduates annually come from RN-to-BSN programs.

6. Second Degree BSN

Second Degree BSN programs are designed for non-nurses who have bachelor’s degrees in non-nursing fields. These programs will give you credit for having completed your liberal arts requirements, allowing you to complete the nursing portion of your coursework (and earn your BSN) in two academic years or less.

7.  Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

A master of science in nursing degree is an 18 – 24 month program that allows a nurse to specialize in a particular area, such as an area of advanced clinical training or research. Some students take on joint degrees in related fields like business administration, public health or hospital administration. Most people working towards an MSN already have a BSN, but there are accelerated programs for ADN nurses to earn a BSN and MSN in one shot, or for non-nursing college graduates.
Typical requirements include a BSN from an accredited nursing school, an RN license, minimum GPA and GRE scores, and some period of clinical work experience. Each school has its specific requirements, so make sure to check with them before applying.

8. Nursing Doctoral Programs

Nurses with doctoral degrees are expected to have tremendous job demand over the next ten years. These programs prepare nurses for careers in health administration (a PhD is the preferred degree for nursing executives), clinical research, and advanced clinical practice. The programs take from four to six years to complete, so they represent a significant commitment on your part.

In a doctoral program everyone receives training in research methods (including statistics and data analysis), the history and philosophy of nursing science, and in leadership skills. But it’s up to you to focus in on a specific research area for your degree. Compared to a BSN or MSN, it’s important to match your particular interests with those of a particular faculty member.