How To Become a Nurse in Tennessee 2025

Do you want to learn how to become a nurse? Keep reading to discover the state requirements you must complete to become a registered nurse (RN) in Tennessee, including education, exams, and more.

What Does an RN Do?

RNs play a vital role in patient care by assessing health conditions, administering treatments, and supporting recovery. They work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. Some of the typical duties of a certified registered nurse include:

• monitoring patient health and vital signs
• administering medications and treatments
• assisting with diagnostic tests and procedures
• creating and updating care plans
• educating patients about health conditions and care steps

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

The timeline to become a nurse in Tennessee varies depending on your background and goals. Typically, it takes two to four years to achieve licensure. Accelerated nursing programs online can speed up this timeline.

An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) takes about two years to finish. You can apply for entry-level roles with this credential. The other option is to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which typically takes four years. Completing a bachelor's degree can lead to better pay and more responsibilities.

After completing an undergraduate degree, some people complete a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), which opens doors to managerial positions. If you're looking to take the next step in your nursing career, earning a master's degree may lead to leadership opportunities or gaining a specialization.

Still, others pursue further higher education to become a nurse practitioner. The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) can lead to this title. No matter which option you choose, all pathways include the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), background checks, and state RN licensure applications.

4 Steps To Become a Registered Nurse in Tennessee

If you want to become an RN in Tennessee, you'll need to follow the rules set by the state and get a nursing license. These include educational requirements for nurses. Keep reading to learn all the steps you need to start your nursing career.

Step 1: Pursue a State-Approved Nursing Program

The first step is to graduate from an approved nursing program in Tennessee. Whether you choose an ADN or BSN degree, you'll learn the fundamentals of patient care through intensive coursework and hands-on experience. Make sure the school is accredited and listed with the Tennessee Board of Nursing, as only graduates from approved programs are eligible for licensure.

Step 2: Submit Background Check

Approximately six weeks before graduation, complete the required fingerprinting for a criminal background check, which is mandatory for all applicants. Failing to complete this step early can delay your ability to schedule the NCLEX-RN and receive your license, so it's important to be proactive.

Step 3: Register with Pearson VUE and Pay the NCLEX-RN Exam Fee

Next, you'll need to register for the NCLEX-RN with Pearson VUE about two weeks prior to graduation. The current testing fee is $200.

Step 4: Submit the Application After Graduation

Now that your background check is completed and you've registered with Pearson VUE, you can submit your official online application to get your RN license. Arrange for your school to send official transcripts directly to the Tennessee Board of Nursing. These must show the degree awarded and your graduation date.

You'll also need to upload a passport-style photo signed and dated by both you and your nursing program director. Additionally, you'll need proof of citizenship or lawful presence.

Top Nursing Degree Programs in Tennessee

If you want to achieve RN licensure, you'll need to attend nursing school. Online nursing programs can be challenging to find because of the mandatory in-person clinicals. Below, we discuss in-person accredited nursing programs in Tennessee.

1. University of Tennessee - Knoxville

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville offers a rigorous BSN program. Students benefit from modern simulation labs, diverse clinical placements, and an emphasis on critical thinking and holistic patient care.

• Estimated tuition cost: $68,966 total (in-state); $145,326 total (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

2. Union University

Union University, a private Christian institution, offers a BSN degree program. Students complete a liberal arts core as well as 61 credit hours of nursing courses. Featuring modern labs, expert faculty, and diverse clinical placements, the program prepares students to enter the workforce.

• Estimated tuition cost: $54,670 (in-state and out-of-state)
• Accreditation: CCNE

3. University of Memphis

At the University of Memphis, students can pursue a BSN through the Loewenberg College of Nursing. This full-time program includes comprehensive coursework and clinical experiences in areas such as pediatrics, mental health, public health, and leadership. Graduates are elgible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and take on entry-level roles in the nursing profession.

• Estimated tuition cost: $517 per credit hour (in-state); $711 per credit hour (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: CCNE

4. Lincoln Memorial University

Lincoln Memorial University offers a BSN program. Students complete four semesters of upper-division nursing coursework, combining classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience. The program prepares graduates for licensure and professional nursing practice in diverse healthcare settings.

• Estimated tuition cost: $1,119 per credit hour (in-state and out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

5. Belmont University

Belmont University's Gordon E. Inman College of Nursing offers a BSN program. This four-year program includes general education, simulation labs, and diverse clinical rotations in Nashville. It has a 100% pass rate on the NCLEX-RN exam.

• Estimated tuition cost: $43,750 (in-state); $43,750 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: CCNE

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Tennessee

Nursing jobs in Tennessee are plentiful. The field is expected to grow by 6% over the coming years, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The same source indicates that the average national salary for nurses is $93,600.

FAQs About How To Become a Nurse in Tennessee

Keep reading to learn more about the process to become a nurse in Tennessee. We cover important topics like tuition costs, prerequisites, and more.

How Much Does a Nursing Degree Cost in Tennessee?

The cost of a nursing degree varies widely depending on the school and type of program. If you pursue an ADN at a community college, you can keep the total tuition cost under $15,000.

However, if you pursue a four-year bachelor's program at a university, this can cost around $50,000. Private universities often charge significantly more.

It's also good to remember that these estimates do not include additional expenses like textbooks, uniforms, lab fees, transportation, and licensure exam costs. Additionally, you may consider buying the best laptop for nursing students, which typically costs around $1,000.

Financial aid and scholarships may help reduce out-of-pocket expenses. You'll need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to receive government aid. So, look for in-person and online colleges that accept FAFSA.

What Are the Prerequisites for a Nursing Degree?

Prerequisites for a nursing degree typically include high school coursework or college-level classes in biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and math. Some programs also require a minimum GPA. You can complete many of these requirements through self-paced nursing prerequisites online, which offer flexibility for busy students.

What Is the Fastest Way To Become a Nurse?

Technically, the fastest way to become a nurse is through a licensed practical nurse (LPN) program. However, it's important to note that this will not lead to becoming an RN.

The fastest way to become an RN is through an ADN program. This type of degree only takes two years to finish.

What Is the Easiest Nursing Degree?

The easiest nursing degree that leads to RN licensure is an ADN. The timeline is shorter, yet you can still pass the NCLEX-RN.

Find a Nursing Degree

If you want to become a nurse or are interested in continuing education for your career, start browsing the accredited degree programs here on Learn.org. Reach out to individual schools for more information.