Registered Nurse Education Requirements: How Long Will I be in School?

When you feel the calling to help others in a medical field, becoming a registered nurse might be the perfect job opportunity for you. It opens up a world of potential, allowing you to work just about anywhere in the country. The position is also in-demand and with current the nursing shortage, jobs are plentiful.

In addition to improving your qualifications, becoming a registered nurse is rewarding each day. However, you might wonder how long you'll be in school and if it is worth going back to college. Your time is valuable and it’s natural to wonder how long this degree will take you. Time is exactly the reason why many future nurses opt for an accelerated degree program. Let’s take a look at the differences between traditional nursing school and accelerated programs.

The Differences Between a Traditional RN Program and an Accelerated Program

When looking for available courses and degree programs, you're going to discover there is a traditional RN program and an accelerated program. What exactly is the difference? It really just comes down to how long it takes you to graduate.

You'll cover the same course material and enroll in the same classes. This way, you'll have the same educational background as someone with a traditional RN program. However, the main difference in the two programs is also the main benefit. Through an accelerated program, you could graduate in nearly half the time than with the other option. A two-year traditional program is an 18-month program in an accelerated college. This means you could be starting your job hunt while your peers in traditional colleges are still studying.

Beyond graduating faster, with the additional time you may choose to obtain more certifications as well. There are different add-on certification programs you can consider after graduation, which provides specific training using various technologies, computer systems, and so on. Each certification could help make you a more desirable candidate on the job market.

What are the Strengths of an Accelerated Degree Format?

The strength of an accelerated degree format is you'll learn everything faster. However, you do need to put in the time and this kind of class isn't for everyone. It heavily depends on your ability to dedicate your time towards additional classes. Someone with a schedule already jam-packed might have difficulty fitting in an accelerated degree program. 

After all, college isn't just about graduating, but about obtaining and retaining the knowledge you learn. However, if you thrive in this kind of condition and you have both the drive and motivation to stick with an accelerated degree format, you could be happy with the results.

How Can an Accelerated Degree Program Help Nurses Start Work Sooner?

There are several major ways an accelerated degree program can help a nurse start work sooner. First, you'll graduate faster, which in terms of sheer timing, you'll be able to start your work faster. You could have a big head start on the other nurses who enrolled in the traditional program.

The next way an accelerated degree program can help is many employers see this as a sign of a quality nurse. Not everyone who is a registered nurse has the willpower and capability of competing all their coursework at this pace. This demonstrates dedication, the ability to learn quickly, and a drive others may not have. Employers familiar with accelerated nursing programs will be able to see that you are focused, driven, and serious about your future as a nurse.

Are you interested in becoming a registered nurse? Are you looking to earn your Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing? If so, consider ECPI University for the education you’ll need to make a difference in the nursing world. For more information about this degree program, connect with a helpful ECPI University admissions counselor today.

It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

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