How do I become a nurse in the United States?

by Jatin
(India)

Your Question: I am 18 years old and just graduated from high school and I wish to become a nurse. I want to know how to become a nurse and yes I am a male.

My Answer:

Jatin…Congrats on getting through high school! Hats off to you! I don’t know how much help I will be about transferring a degree from India to the US, but I can tell you how to become a nurse in the USA. For specifics on using overseas education here, I would contact the state board of nursing where you wish to work after graduation.

First of all, don’t worry about the male vs. female thing. It is an old tired rumor that males cannot or should not be nurses. I addressed the topic of male nurses here. Hope that helps with that bit!

Now--- There are several ways to become a nurse here in the United States.

Becoming a licensed practical nurse takes less than 1 year of school usually. You will have restrictions as to what you can do because of the shorter schooling. There are different rules in different states about what you can and cannot do with this type of degree.

You can get your associates degree in nursing. While this is a 2-year program at most schools, it may take you longer than that if you need prerequisite classes such as math and English. The two-year part is strictly nursing classes. If you get your associates, and pass the NCLEX (exam after school), you become a RN.

A BSN is a bachelor of science in nursing. It is a traditional 4-year degree. You also become and RN with a BSN. The difference between an associates and bachelors degree is the amount of room for advancement in the workplace you have, such as management positions. You will also need your BSN if you ever want to get your Masters in Nursing.

Hope that answers some of your questions!
Shannon