What Age Do Most Nurses Start?

The nursing profession is an essential component of healthcare and plays a crucial role in ensuring the physical and mental health of patients.

Nurses perform a variety of tasks, from direct patient care supporters to collaborators in specialized medical procedures.

The average age to start a nursing career and the factors impacting it are discussed here.

Due to the education and training needed for this career, people often start their nursing careers in their early to mid-20s and may continue to even their 50s.

What Is the Average Age To Become a Nurse?

Nursing is a diverse and rewarding field that offers various paths for individuals interested in healthcare.

From entry-level positions to advanced roles, nurses have the opportunity to specialize and grow throughout their careers.

The age at which people start in these roles can vary based on education, life circumstances, and personal choices. Below, we've outlined some common nursing roles and the typical ages at which individuals might start them.

Certified Nursing Assistant

A certified nursing assistant (CNA) provides basic care to patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities.

Their responsibilities often include helping patients with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and eating.

They may also take vital signs, assist with transferring patients from bed to wheelchair, and provide companionship.

Since the training required to become a CNA is often just a few weeks to a few months while completing a state-approved CNA training program, the average age for becoming a nurse in this role is early to mid-20s.

Licensed Practical Nurse

Licensed practical nurses (LPN) provide basic medical care under the supervision of registered nurses or doctors. They may administer medication, change dressings, take vital signs, and help patients with personal hygiene.

To become an LPN, one must complete a state-approved educational program which usually lasts about one to two years.

Given the additional educational requirements compared to a CNA, many individuals start their LPN careers in their mid to late-20s.

Registered Nurse

Registered nurses (RN) play a pivotal role in patient care. They perform the following tasks:

• assess patients' conditions
• develop and implement care plans
• administer medications
• perform procedures
• collaborate with doctors and other healthcare professionals

RNs also educate patients and their families on various health conditions and preventative care. Most RNs start by pursuing an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

Given the educational requirements, many RNs begin their professional careers in their mid to late-20s.

Nurse Practitioner

Nurse practitioners (NP) are advanced practice registered nurses who diagnose and treat medical conditions, often with the ability to prescribe medications.

They can perform many of the same services as physicians and often work in primary care settings, though they can also specialize in areas like pediatrics, gerontology, or psychiatry.

To become an NP, one must first become an RN, and then obtain a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).

Given the additional years of education and experience often required, many NPs start their roles in their late 20s to late 30s.

Earning Degrees Online FAQs

As technology reshapes education, many students are considering online platforms to pursue their nursing degrees. Earning a nursing degree online offers flexibility, accessibility, and a modern approach to learning.

However, potential students often have numerous questions about this mode of study. Here, we'll tackle some of the most common queries to guide you on your online educational journey.

What Nursing Degrees Can I Earn Online?

Almost all levels of academic degrees, including certificate programs, bachelor's, master's, and even doctoral degrees, can be pursued online.

Associate degrees cannot be earned online because of the clinical in-person requirements. However, once you earn your RN license, you can enroll in an online RN-to-BSN program to complete your bachelor's degree.

How Much Does It Cost to Earn a Degree Online

The cost of earning a degree online can vary widely based on several factors: the institution offering the program, the level of the degree (associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral), the field of study, and the duration of the course.

For the year 2023, the average tuition cost for bachelor's degree students enrolling in online classes is around $282 per credit hour.

In some cases, online programs can be more affordable than their on-campus counterparts due to savings on housing, commuting, and other campus-related expenses.

How Long Does It Take To Earn a Degree Online

The time to earn an online degree generally aligns with traditional programs: two years for an associate degree, four years for a bachelor's, one to three years for a master's, and three to eight years for a doctoral degree.

However, online formats offer flexibility, with options for part-time, full-time, and accelerated tracks.

Individual pace can vary based on personal and professional commitments, potentially shortening or extending these durations.

Start Becoming a Nurse Today

Starting a nursing career, no matter what the average age is to become a nurse, will bring you substantial rewards and a lasting impact.