How to Choose the Right Path to Nursing School
Have you always dreamed of becoming a nurse but aren't sure where to start?
People who choose nursing often find it to be a deeply rewarding profession. Nursing ranks as the nation's largest healthcare profession
and among the top-paying occupations. It also offers many specialties, from bedside care to remote work. Healthcare companies across
the U.S. increasingly demand competent nurses.
Many people feel overwhelmed when they search for a nursing school. Whether you’re a high school student or an adult seeking to change your profession, this article aims to guide you on the right path to nursing school.
First Things First, Why?
In everything we do, there’s a reason behind it. Research reveals that you are far more likely to achieve your goals if you have a sense of meaning and purpose. Knowing your why will also foster a healthy lifestyle and help you prevail when times are trying. Before taking your next steps, take a few minutes to write down your “why.” It may be that you’ve watched a nurse care for a loved one or experienced it firsthand when a nurse cared for you; whatever the reason, jot it down and keep it handy. When you become overwhelmed with the search, your why will help you endure.
What Nursing Education Options Are There?
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA): A CNA is an entry-level position that teaches nurses basic care, such as taking vital signs, helping with bathing, feeding, and other personal care tasks. The CNA role is hands-on, providing experience in the healthcare field and a look into the care nurses provide. Becoming a CNA only requires a high school diploma or equivalent. CNA training programs take from four to eight weeks, depending on the program you choose. Numerous high schools provide CNA courses.
Licensed Vocational Nurse/Licensed Practical Nurse (LVN/LPN): The LVN/LPN provides care under the supervision of a physician and registered nurse. They have a smaller scope of practice but provide basic nursing care, such as administering medications, wound care, and helping with daily activities. LVN/LPN programs typically last about a year, with the option to bridge to an RN if the LVN desires.
Registered Nurse (RN): A Registered nurse oversees the LVN/LPN, plans care, assesses patients, and possesses a broader scope of practice. The timeframe to become an RN is typically two years for an associate’s degree and four years for a bachelor’s degree.
Nurse Practitioner (NP): A Nurse Practitioner requires a Master’s or Doctoral Degree in nursing and allows the nurse to prescribe medications, diagnose diseases, and treat patients. Typically, it takes six to eight years to achieve this degree.
With the exception of the CNA program, students must take prerequisites prior to starting a nursing program. Depending on which route you choose, reach out to your high school academic counselor or a local college campus counselor who can assist you on where to begin.
Nursing programs range anywhere from $10,000 to $115,000, depending on the degree you choose. You can use many options to help pay tuition. You can apply for financial aid, loans, and grants to assist you. College counselors and parents/guardians—if you are in high school—can help you find the best financial option.
Final Thoughts
You can volunteer at a local healthcare facility to get a glimpse into the healthcare environment. Take a tour of your local hospital. Ask questions about the services the hospital offers, particularly nursing services. Research local college options and meet with financial advisors to examine which program fits your goals.
The path to nursing school is individualized and based on your lifestyle and ambitions. The important thing is that you start somewhere. The nursing world provides a universe of specialties to choose from, making it a wonderful career path.
References
American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (2024, April). Nursing workforce fact sheet. https://www.aacnnursing.org/news-data/fact-sheets/nursing-workforce-fact-sheet
Kim, E. S., Shiba, K., Boehm, J. K., & Kubzansky, L. D. (2020). Sense of purpose in life and five health behaviors in older adults. Preventive Medicine, 139, 106172. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ypmed.2020.106172
Sinek, S. (2025, October 8). 15 amazing side effects of knowing your why. The Optimism Company. https://simonsinek.com/stories/15-amazing-side-effects-of-knowing-your-why/
NU Editorial Contributors. (2022, October 18). What is a CNA. National University. https://www.nu.edu/blog/what-is-a-cna/
Morris, G. (2025, September 11). What are the prerequisites for nursing school? NurseJournal. https://www.nursejournal.org/resources/prerequisites-for-nursing-school/
Federal Student Aid. (n.d.). Preparing for college. U.S. Department of Education. https://studentaid.gov/resources/prepare-for-college
