Nursing Degree Guide (USA)

The two main undergraduate paths to becoming a registered nurse

In the United States, two undergraduate pathways lead to eligibility to sit the NCLEX-RN licensure examination: the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Both pathways, when completed at an accredited institution, make a graduate eligible to apply for licensure.

The ADN is typically a two-year programme offered at community colleges and some universities. It focuses on core nursing theory and clinical practice. The BSN is a four-year degree at a college or university that covers the same core clinical content with additional coursework in leadership, research, public health, and community nursing. Some hospitals and health systems state a preference for BSN-prepared nurses in their hiring criteria — but this varies by employer and location. Confirm current employer requirements directly with the institutions you are interested in.

• ADN: typically 2 years, community college or university, NCLEX-RN eligible on completion
• BSN: typically 4 years, university-based, broader curriculum including leadership and research components
• RN-to-BSN programmes exist for ADN-qualified nurses who wish to complete a BSN later

The NCLEX-RN: the national licensure examination

After graduating from an accredited nursing programme, candidates in the US must pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination — Registered Nurse) to become licensed as a registered nurse. The exam is administered by Pearson VUE on behalf of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).

The NCLEX-RN uses computer-adaptive testing (CAT) technology. The structure, content, and passing standard of the exam are set by the NCSBN and updated periodically — the current Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) format introduced clinical judgement measurement items. For current, authoritative information on the exam — including structure, registration, and fees — visit the official NCSBN website at ncsbn.org.

Accreditation: ACEN and CCNE

Nursing programmes in the US are accredited by recognised accrediting bodies. The two primary nursing-specific bodies are:

- ACEN (Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing) — accredits a range of nursing programmes including ADN and BSN programmes at various institution types. Programme listings are searchable on acenursing.org. - CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education) — accredits baccalaureate and graduate nursing programmes. Programme listings are searchable on the CCNE site at aacnnursing.org/ccne-accreditation.

Many state boards of nursing require graduation from a programme that is accredited by an approved body in order to sit the NCLEX-RN. Confirm the requirement for the state where you intend to be licensed on that state's official board of nursing website.

Graduate nursing programmes

Beyond the BSN, advanced practice nursing roles in the US — such as nurse practitioner (NP), certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA), clinical nurse specialist (CNS), and certified nurse-midwife (CNM) — require a graduate degree, typically a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). These advanced practice roles carry their own certification and licensure requirements set by professional certifying bodies and state boards.

If you are considering advanced practice, research each specific role's educational and certification pathway on the relevant official certifying body's website, as requirements vary by role and state.

For international students and internationally trained nurses

International students who complete a US-accredited nursing degree follow the same NCLEX-RN licensure path as domestic students — they apply through the state board of nursing where they wish to be licensed. The requirements and process for internationally trained nurses who completed their education outside the US differ and involve credential evaluation; consult the official NCSBN resources and the relevant state board of nursing for current requirements.

This guide is general educational information only and does not constitute medical or professional advice.