An RN (Registered Nurse) nursing program is an accredited educational pathway that prepares students to become licensed registered nurses. These programs typically lead to either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), which takes about 2–3 years, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which takes 4 years. Both qualify graduates to take the NCLEX-RN exam the national licensing test required to practice as an RN in the U.S.
ADN programs, often offered at community colleges, focus on core nursing skills and clinical fundamentals, making them a quicker, more affordable entry into the profession. BSN programs, available at four-year universities, include additional coursework in leadership, research, public health, and community nursing, which many employers now prefer or require especially in hospital settings.
All RN programs combine classroom instruction with hands-on clinical rotations in areas like medical-surgical, pediatrics, obstetrics, mental health, and critical care. Admission is competitive and usually requires prerequisites in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, chemistry, and psychology, along with a minimum GPA and sometimes entrance exams like the TEAS or HESI A2.
After completing the program, graduates apply to their state’s nursing board, register for the NCLEX-RN, and undergo background checks. Once licensed, RNs can work in hospitals, clinics, schools, home health, or public health settings.
Many ADN-prepared nurses later pursue a BSN through RN-to-BSN bridge programs, often online and employer-supported. For those interested in advanced roles (like nurse practitioner or clinical specialist), a BSN is the essential first step toward graduate education.
When choosing a program, ensure it’s accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) this affects licensure eligibility and future education opportunities.
An RN nursing program is demanding but rewarding, offering a direct path to a stable, in-demand healthcare career with opportunities for growth, specialization, and meaningful patient impact.