How Long Does It Take To Get a Nursing Degree Online?

One of the most popular fields of study is nursing. It provides many employment opportunities, high salaries, job stability, the chance to care for others, and the knowledge that you are making a difference.

A concern for many looking to enter a new field is how long a degree or program may take to complete. When it comes to nursing, the duration depends on the type of program, what role you hope to have after graduation, and individual state regulations.

Read on for more information on different kinds of nursing programs and how long they take to complete.

Types of Nursing Degrees and Programs

Here is our guide to some of the most common nursing programs and how long they take to complete.

Licensed Practical Nurse Programs (LPN)

There are many programs available to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN), sometimes called an LVN, or licensed vocational nurse.

The primary difference between a licensed practical nurse and a registered nurse is the kinds of tasks they complete in the workplace and the amount of education that is required.

Compared to other nursing degrees, an LPN nursing program takes the least time to complete. An LPN program can typically be completed in one year to 16 months.

LPN programs can be completed at community colleges, technical schools, etc., and usually include coursework and clinical practice. There are limitations on what an LPN is able to do without supervision in the workplace.

Associate Degree in Nursing

An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is one of the most common pathways to becoming a registered nurse. It is the minimum requirement to become a registered nurse.

Completing an Associate Degree in Nursing takes a bit longer than completing an LPN program. Typically, associate degrees take about two years, sometimes a little longer.

However, there are many benefits to becoming a registered nurse. RNs are able to take on greater responsibility and hold a higher position, which means better pay and A greater likelihood of advancing in the workplace.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing is a step up from an associate degree and takes about twice as long. Most bachelor's degrees take about four years to complete.

However, along with the additional time input, pursuing a BSN has numerous benefits. Some facilities prefer to only hire nurse staff with a bachelor's degree, so it opens many new job possibilities.

Additionally, graduates who hold a BSN qualify for higher positions as well as potentially higher paying nursing jobs.

There are multiple options for completing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Students may opt for a more traditional track, or they could complete an RN to BSN program, which is designed for those who are already registered nurses.

Some institutions have accelerated programs that may allow the degree to be completed in a shorter time frame.

Master of Science in Nursing

A Master of Science in Nursing degree is a step above a bachelor's degree, but it will also require an additional two years to complete. Typically, these degrees will involve more specialized skills than lower degree levels.

These degrees usually require students to not only have a bachelor's degree but also to have become a registered nurse, and they may require experience working in the field of nursing.

Although they have more rigorous requirements and take longer to complete, a master's degree in nursing allows for greater specialization and further increases the amount and kinds of care able to be provided.

Doctoral Degree

A doctoral degree in nursing is the highest level of education able to be completed in the field. There are many different options for doctoral degrees depending on the previous level of education you have completed.

There are options for those who hold only a bachelor's degree as well as for students who have completed their master's degree. The time required to complete these degrees varies.

Depending on the degree, it could take at least an additional two years of schooling.

FAQs about Nursing Degrees and Programs

Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions about nursing degrees and programs.

Can I Get a Nursing Degree Online?

There are many online nursing degree options. However, there are some limitations. Due to the necessity of clinical practice and hands-on experience, many elements of a nursing degree can only be completed in person.

Many online degrees in nursing feature online coursework but also require in-person clinical practice.

Is a Nursing Degree Worth It?

If you are interested in the nursing field, a degree is very much worth it. There are options that are affordable and do not take too long to complete, and they will lead to a stable, high-paying job that affords the opportunity to care for others.

There are also many options to continue studying and growing in the field if the initial programs and opportunities are satisfactory and fulfilling.

Start Your Nursing Degree Today

With many options to study and grow in the field, nursing is an excellent and fulfilling job market to enter. Start your nursing degree today!