How To Become a Nurse in Ohio 2025

Nursing is an excellent career for compassionate individuals looking for a wealth of professional opportunities in healthcare. If you're a resident of Ohio and wondering how to become a nurse, keep reading.

In this article, we'll explore the steps you'll need to take to begin your nursing career in Ohio. We'll also look at some schools that offer nursing degree programs and answer some commonly asked questions.

What Does an RN Do?

A certified registered nurse (RN) is a healthcare professional who plays an essential role in patient care and health promotion. Nurses perform a variety of job duties, including:

• performing basic nursing care skills like taking vital signs and administering medications
• conducting health assessments and evaluations
• assisting with medical procedures ranging from CPR to surgery
• educating and advocating for patients
• collaborating with other healthcare professionals like doctors and specialists

Registered nurses work in many different settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Nurse practitioners are advanced practice RNs (APRNs) who provide advanced levels of care, often while working out of their own private practices.

How Long Does It Take To Become a Nurse in Ohio?

It typically takes about two to four years for nursing students to complete their education and earn their licenses. The timeframe depends on the degree chosen and whether they study full-time or part-time.

Those who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field can complete accelerated nursing programs online or in-person. These programs provide dual credit for previous education levels, helping students earn a second bachelor's degree or a master's degree in as little as one year.

5 Steps To Become a Registered Nurse in Ohio

There are several educational requirements for nurses that you'll have to meet to get licensed in the state of Ohio. Let's look closer at each of the steps.

Step 1: Earn a High School Diploma or GED

All nursing students must be high school graduates or possess an equivalent level of education. Students are encouraged to work hard on their studies and get good grades.

If you are still in high school, consider taking advanced science courses like biology, chemistry, and psychology. Advanced mathematics courses and anatomy and physiology can also help you prepare for the rigors of college education.

Step 2: Enroll in a State-Approved Nursing Program

In Ohio, two types of degrees can lead to RN licensure: an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Programs should be accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Associate degree programs consist of at least 60 credit hours and can typically be completed in two years. Bachelor's degree programs provide a more advanced level of education, consist of 120 credits, and are usually completed within four years.

Step 3: Complete Clinical Rotations

As part of your degree program, you'll need to complete clinical experiences, also known as clinical rotations. Your school will help you schedule these ''practice shifts'' at local healthcare facilities.

Clinical experiences give students opportunities to practice their nursing skills under the supervision of more advanced healthcare professionals. These hands-on learning opportunities are essential for preparing competent nurses to handle real-world nursing care scenarios.

Step 4: Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

Once you graduate from your training program, you can sign up to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). This computer-based exam is available at testing centers throughout Ohio.

Once you pass the NCLEX-RN, you can apply for your RN license through the Ohio Board of Nursing. You'll need to submit an application fee and all required documentation along with the application, as well as submit to a background check.

Step 5: Complete Continuing Education

Once you've obtained your nursing license, you'll need to complete continuing education on an ongoing basis to keep it. The exception to this rule is the first time you renew after passing the NCLEX; no continuing education is required in this case.

Nurses who have renewed their license once must complete at least 24 hours of continuing education per renewal cycle. At least one hour must qualify as Category A, meaning it applies directly to the Ohio Nurse Practice Act.

Top Nursing Degree Programs in Ohio

If you're ready to get started in your nursing education program, keep reading. Below, we'll look at some top schools in Ohio that offer nursing degrees, including some online nursing programs.

1. Ohio State University

Ohio State University is a large private research university in Columbus, OH. It offers an array of both graduate and undergraduate nursing programs.

Students can pursue a traditional or accelerated BSN program, a transfer degree for current community college students, and an RN to BSN program. Graduate programs include several Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) options, a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and a Doctor of Nursing Education (DNE).

• Estimated tuition cost: $13,244 (in-state); $40,022 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. Ohio University

Ohio University is a public school in Athens, OH. Students at this school can pursue nursing degrees at every level of education.

Programs include an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in nursing, a traditional BSN program, an online RN to BSN option, and MSN and DNP degrees. Students can also pursue coursework to meet Ohio's requirements to become a school nurse.

• Estimated tuition cost: $14,158 (in-state); $24,838 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

3. Kent State University

Kent State University is a public school headquartered in Kent, OH. Its school of nursing offers a range of options for students from all walks of life.

In addition to traditional BSN, MSN, and DNP programs, an accelerated BSN and online RN to BSN are available. Graduate students can pursue an MSN-MBA dual degree to help them develop business skills and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in nursing to prepare for careers in academia and research.

• Estimated tuition cost: $13,232 (in-state); $23,082 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

4. University of Toledo

The University of Toledo is a public school in Toledo, OH. Nursing students at this school can pursue various BSN, MSN, and DNP options, as well as graduate certificates.

The traditional BSN provides both direct entry and transfer options, and current RNs can complete an online program to earn their BSN. Traditional and graduate-entry MSN programs are available, and an online DNP program is available for post-master's degree students.

• Estimated tuition cost: $12,744 (in-state); $22,104 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

5. Cincinnati State Technical and Community College

Cincinnati State Technical and Community College is a two-year school in Cincinnati, OH. Students at this school can earn an associate degree in nursing to begin their RN careers quickly and affordably.

Students can enroll in a traditional ADN program or in a licensed practical nurse (LPN) to RN option. The school offers some of the most affordable tuition rates in the state, making it easy for students to graduate on a budget.

• Estimated tuition cost: $5,517 (in-state); $10,044 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Ohio

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that Ohio employs more than 133,000 registered nurses. The average annual salary in the state is $84,430.

Nationally, the demand for RNs is expected to increase about 6% by 2033, which is faster than average for all occupations. Students entering the nursing field can expect good job security throughout the coming years.

FAQs About How To Become a Nurse in Ohio

If you still have questions about pursuing nursing licensure in Ohio, you're not alone. Keep reading for answers to some frequently asked questions you may be wondering about.

How Much Does a Nursing Degree Cost in Ohio?

Different nursing degrees at different schools can vary widely in price. Associate degree programs are typically the most affordable, while accelerated BSN programs and degrees at private schools typically cost more.

The schools featured above provide average tuition rates ranging from around $5,500 to more than $14,000 per year. Attending online colleges that accept FAFSA can help students save money on their education.

What Are the Prerequisites for a Nursing Degree?

Many nursing programs require students to complete prerequisite coursework ahead of time. Common prerequisites you may have to take include biology, chemistry, mathematics, and anatomy and physiology. You may be able to complete self-paced nursing prerequisites online at some schools.

What Is the Fastest Way To Become a Nurse?

The fastest way to become a nurse depends on your current level of education. Those with only a high school diploma or GED can enroll in an ADN program to complete nursing licensure requirements within two years. Those who already have a bachelor's degree can enroll in an accelerated BSN degree program to become a nurse in as little as 12 months.

What Is the Easiest Nursing Degree?

All nursing degrees require challenging courses and clinical experiences. That said, students often consider the easiest nursing degree to be the ADN. This type of nursing degree contains the most fundamental, entry-level courses and largely consists of general education classes.

Students enrolled in an ADN or any other nursing program can make their lives easier by choosing the best laptop for nursing students.

Find a Nursing Degree

If you're ready to begin your career as an Ohio nurse, explore the colleges and universities featured on Learn.org. Contact any of the schools to learn more about their admission requirements and programs and to choose the best option for you.