So! You want to go to nursing school, excellent. There are a lot of things to consider but first off, how do you actually apply? What do you need to consider first? Luckily, we’ve broken down some of the key questions, ideas, and strategies you’ll need to know.

What Type of Nurse Do You Want To Be?

One of the most critical things to consider is what kind of nurse do you want to be? I don’t mean which department you are interested in working in, I mean, which license do you intend to apply for?

For a lot of us, finances are the determining factor here. A four year BSN (Bachelor’s in Nursing Science) at a major university will not cost the same as a two year ADN (Associates Degree in Nursing Science) from a local community college. Shocker, I know.vBut this has to be the first decision you make.

Note that you are earning a degree from nursing school, which will enable you to take the RN (Registered Nurse) Licensure exam for your nursing license. It is possible to have the degree without the license, but you will not be able to work as a nurse without the license.

Choosing a Nursing School

After you decide what kind of nurse you want to be, then you must pick a school. Again, money usually is the driving force here.

I feel it is important to note that if you are unable to afford a four year university, there are many local community colleges that offer excellent ADN programs. Some of them even offer LPN (Licensed Practical Nursing) programs, which are shorter in length than RN programs and, therefore, less expensive.

Something also relevent to note is that an LPN practices under an RN. There are a few things that LPNs can’t do that RNs can. (One example is IV push medications).

Deciding between LPN and RN licensure is also a must. As I understand it these days, some of the community colleges even offer an option to take an RN program, and then drop down to an LPN program rather seemlessly if the RN program isn’t for you!