How Much Does It Cost To Be A Nurse?

Nursing is a popular profession for men and women, with thousands of students pursuing nursing education each year.

However, higher education always comes with expenses like tuition, supplies, and room and board. The total cost of being a nurse will vary based on the degree level you pursue, the school your program is offered through, and more.

Cost By Nursing Degree Program

Nursing degrees are offered at multiple different levels ranging from associate to doctoral level degrees. Each degree program will differ in length and cost, which will change your nursing school expenses.

ADN Degree Program Cost

An associate degree in nursing is a two-year degree program that is often the fastest route a person can take to become a registered nurse. An ADN is almost always cheaper than a BSN or higher degree due to the length of the degree program and the fact that an ADN can be earned at many community colleges. Average costs for this degree range from $8000 to $14000, but this can be impacted by multiple factors.

Although there are advantages such as shorter degree paths and reduced costs, an ADN won't have the same room for growth in your nursing career as some of the other nursing degrees will.

BSN Degree Program Cost

A Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) is a bachelor's degree that takes roughly four years to complete, although some students might take longer or shorter depending on course load. This is often the preferred entry-level degree for most healthcare providers. Because this degree program takes four years and must be completed at a college or university, costs often exceed $35000 by graduation day.

RN to BSN Degree Program Cost

Although students can become an RN after completing an ADN program, many of these students look into RN-to-BSN programs to increase their pay and opportunities for career growth. These programs have multiple advantages, but they come with additional costs. Some programs cost as little as $9,600 yearly, but costs are higher for private schools or out-of-state programs.

MSN Degree Program Cost

A nursing master's degree, called a Master of Science in nursing (MSN), takes about one to two years, but a BSN must be completed first. These programs range in cost from $18,000 to $90,000, for many of the same factors that adjust the cost for ADNs and BSNs

Although there are increased costs, these degree programs have big advantages for students looking to become an advanced nurse practitioner. Nursing graduates from MSN programs will have higher career and earning potential.

DNP Degree Program Cost

The highest level of nursing degree is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Unlike some other doctoral-level degrees, this degree has a strong focus on hands-on practical knowledge as opposed to a more research or theoretical approach.

After completing a previous degree (such as a BSN or MSN), a DNP program will take about 2 to 6 additional years, with less time required for a healthcare professional with a higher degree. This degree can cost a student anywhere from $9,000 to $100,000.

Additional Nursing School Fees To Consider

When answering the question 'How much does nursing school cost?', multiple factors beyond tuition rates need to be considered.

These non-tuition expenses that will factor into the average cost of nursing school include:

• NCLEX examination fees
• supplies (scrubs, stethoscopes, etc)
• textbooks
• living expenses (either on-campus or in an apartment)
• childcare costs
• college application fees
• costs of travel for students who commute to school
• lab fees

Factors That Affect the Cost of Nursing School

Although accredited nursing programs will cover virtually the same material, regardless of the school you attend, many factors beyond the curriculum will affect the cost of your nursing degree.

Online vs. In-Person Nursing Programs

One of the biggest variables in modern nursing schools is whether or not the classes are online or on-campus. For students who earn a nursing degree online or through a hybrid schedule, costs will often be much cheaper than those who earn one in person.

Although there are plenty of online nursing degree programs, some hospitals or other medical organizations put priority on on-campus degree programs because of the hands-on practice and lab work that they can do that can't be done online.

In-State vs. Out-of-State Programs

Tuition rates vary, at most schools, for in-state and out-of-state students. The residency of a student can change how much nursing school costs. For nearly all nursing degree programs, in-state tuition will be less and, in some cases, substantially less.

Public vs. Private Nursing School

Much like the state of residency for a student, the difference between public schools and private universities can make large changes to a person's tuition costs. Public schools receive funding from governments at various levels which can help keep costs down for students. Private schools aren't always more expensive, but you are far more likely to pay more than if you attend a public institution.

Level of Education

The four different levels of degrees will all come with different costs. Most schools decide on tuition based on cost per credit hours. The higher degrees will require more credit hours over the full path of the degree, which increases the total cost. A full-time schedule also can cost less than a part-time schedule in the long run, regardless of degree level.

How Can I Reduce Tuition Costs as a Nursing Student?

If you're trying to reduce the costs of nursing school, there are several ways to reduce costs.

Start by filling out your Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online application form. This form will help you determine your eligibility for nursing scholarships and other financial aid programs.

Some hospitals also offer tuition reimbursement for their nurses who are trying to earn higher degrees, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. You can also benefit from the type of school you choose. An online, in-state school will almost always be the most affordable option, but there will be other options for enrollment with lower tuition costs.

How To Pay for Nursing School

Paying for nursing school can be done in a few ways:

• applying for nursing scholarships and grants
• taking student loans
• applying for tuition reimbursement from your employer

FAQs About Nursing Costs

Many nursing students have common questions about the costs of nursing school.

Do Accelerated Nursing Programs Cost Less?

The costs of accelerated nursing programs differ greatly from school to school. Some will be less expensive than traditional nursing programs, but others will be more expensive based on their altered curriculum.

Is It Worth It To Be a Nurse?

Becoming a nurse is a rewarding career for multiple reasons. In addition to the good salaries, many nurses choose their careers because it allows them to help others and save lives.

Why Is It So Expensive To Become a Nurse?

Nursing as a career involves life-saving decisions and many practical skills that are highly unique. The degree programs that prepare students to become nurses often involve specialty supplies, courses, and labwork that other degree programs don't. Additionally, graduates need to pass certification examinations before they can begin work, which will add costs.

Is Nursing School Difficult?

Nursing school can be very difficult. Medical knowledge, both theoretical and practical, can provide challenges to students. Although some students might not view nursing school as difficult as other degree programs, it is often considered a challenging degree.