Where do I begin when trying to become an RN as quick as possible?

Question

Hi, I would really like to get an Associates in Nursing to become an RN and I would like to do it as quick as possible to start supporting my family. I'm pretty much starting at ground zero with just a few completed college courses(from over 10 years ago). I've been researching which route to go, the community college route vs. the private college route and I'm still pretty clueless. I could do the private college without prerequisites in 20 months for 65,000(need I say yikes!) or the community college for a lot cheaper but it will take longer and I will have to take all the prerequisites. AND, to my understanding, not only do I need the prerequisites, I will need the whole basic general education in order to get my Associates at a community college. I feel like I'm drowning in so much unknown right now. I just want to become an RN as quick as possible. How?

Answer 1

@ librare. "You cannot become an RN with only an Associates Degree." This is total bull$hit, as the ASN is the most common degree for new RN's in the United States. It is also my degree, you loathsome piece of $hit.



Private colleges prey on the desperate; avoid at all costs.



Sorry, but college credits from 10-years ago are hard to transfer.



Be aware that a 2-year degree in nursing generally takes 3-years to complete. It's tempting to take that route, but wiser to go for the 4-year BSN.



A word of warning: I saw smart people wash out of nursing school left and right. The most common reason for failure was an unsupportive family. If they don't come to an understanding Real Quick about your needs, you could be in trouble.

Answer 2

Do a google search on 'Associate degree in Nursing' and click on the available hits you get on the first page. You've already learned that completing the Associates program would take 2 years at community college and less than 2yrs at a private school. And you know that a private school tuition fee is very high and a community college will cost much less. Private schools will probably offer job placement assistance and at community college you're on your own.

The best timeline might be under 2 yrs at a private school but you'll pay the private school high end cost. Then you have community college and a 2 yr program that may be easier on your budget. You're looking at a difference of a few months but more importantly less strain on your budget should you choose community college. You've done your homework now it's time to take a look at cost and the difference between less than 2 yrs (i.e., 20 months) or 24 months. All the best.

Answer 3

You cannot become an RN with only an Associates Degree. A Bachelors Degree is necessary for licensing in the United States. You could qualify as a lower certified nurse, such as an LVN.