How to Become a Registered Nurse (RN): Steps, Education, and Timeline
How to Become a Registered Nurse (RN)
To become a registered nurse, you must complete an approved nursing program, pass the NCLEX-RN exam, and meet your state’s licensure requirements. Many students choose to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) because it provides a broad foundation in clinical care, leadership, communication, ethics, and long-term nursing growth.
At the University of Saint Mary, the Traditional BSN program prepares students for the RN licensure path through classroom learning, hands-on clinical experience, and a mission-driven approach to nursing rooted in compassion, service, and respect for human dignity.
Steps to become a registered nurse
The process to become an RN can vary slightly by state, but most students follow the same general pathway: complete nursing education, graduate from an approved program, pass the NCLEX-RN, and apply for state licensure.
- Choose a nursing degree pathway: Most RN candidates begin with an approved nursing program such as a BSN or ADN.
- Complete nursing prerequisites and coursework: Students study science, health assessment, pharmacology, patient care, ethics, and other nursing topics.
- Complete clinical training: Nursing programs include supervised clinical experiences in healthcare settings.
- Graduate from an approved nursing program: Graduation makes students eligible to move forward in the licensure process.
- Pass the NCLEX-RN: The NCLEX-RN measures nursing competence and clinical judgment.
- Apply for state licensure: Licensure is granted by the state board of nursing or nursing regulatory body where you plan to practice.
Because licensure requirements vary by state, students should always review current requirements in the state where they plan to practice.
Step 1: Choose a nursing degree pathway
There is more than one academic route to becoming an RN. The two most common degree pathways are the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Both can prepare graduates to pursue RN licensure, but they differ in length, degree level, and long-term flexibility.
A BSN is a bachelor’s degree that typically offers broader preparation in leadership, communication, population health, evidence-based care, and professional nursing practice. AACN describes baccalaureate nursing education as a foundation for entry-level professional practice and graduate-level study.
Source: American Association of Colleges of Nursing, Baccalaureate Education
Compare BSN vs ADN nursing degrees.
Step 2: Complete nursing coursework and clinical training
Nursing education includes both classroom learning and hands-on practice. Students build knowledge in areas such as anatomy and physiology, health assessment, pharmacology, patient safety, communication, care coordination, and clinical decision-making.
Clinical experience is essential because nursing is a practice profession. Students learn to apply classroom knowledge in real healthcare settings under supervision.
At USM, Traditional BSN students complete a 120-credit degree that includes 57 nursing credits. Clinical rotations at healthcare facilities throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area help round out the classroom experience.
See how long a Traditional BSN takes.
Step 3: Pass the NCLEX-RN
After graduating from an approved nursing program, RN candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN. The NCLEX-RN is the national licensure exam for registered nurse candidates.
The official NCLEX site explains that the exam uses real-world case studies to measure a nurse’s ability to think critically and make safe decisions. NCSBN also states that the NCLEX uses computerized adaptive testing to measure nursing competence.
Sources: NCLEX Official Site and NCSBN NCLEX & Other Exams
Learn more about the NCLEX-RN.
Step 4: Apply for state RN licensure
Passing the NCLEX-RN is a major part of becoming a registered nurse, but licensure itself is granted by the state board of nursing or nursing regulatory body. Candidates may also need to complete an application, pay required fees, meet background-check requirements, and submit education documentation.
NCSBN notes that before registering for the NCLEX, candidates should make sure they meet the requirements determined by the nursing regulatory body where they plan to practice.
Source: NCSBN NCLEX & Other Exams.
Review State Licensure requirements
How long does it take to become a registered nurse?
The timeline depends on the nursing degree pathway and your starting point. A traditional BSN commonly takes about four years for first-time college students. Students who enter with prior college credit may be able to finish sooner, depending on transfer credits, prerequisites, and program requirements.
At USM, the Traditional BSN is designed for both first-time freshmen and students with prior college credit. Freshmen may follow a four-year pathway, while qualified transfer students may be able to complete the program in approximately two years after meeting admission and prerequisite requirements.
Why many students choose a BSN to become an RN
Students often choose a BSN because it offers a comprehensive undergraduate nursing education and can support long-term career flexibility. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that registered nurses may enter the profession through several education pathways, but some employers may require a bachelor’s degree.
A BSN can help students prepare for:
- Registered nursing practice
- Clinical judgment and patient-care decision-making
- Leadership and communication responsibilities
- Community and population health roles
- Graduate nursing education later
- Long-term career advancement
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Registered Nurses
See whether a BSN is worth it.
Registered nurse salary and job outlook
Registered nursing remains a strong healthcare career field. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that registered nurses had a median annual wage of $93,600 in May 2024, and employment is projected to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034.
The BLS also projects about 189,100 openings for registered nurses each year, on average, over the decade.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Registered Nurses
How USM helps prepare future registered nurses
The University of Saint Mary prepares nursing students for more than technical skill. Rooted in the university’s Catholic and Vincentian tradition, the Traditional BSN emphasizes ethical development, compassionate service, and respect for the dignity of every person.
USM nursing students learn to care for patients with clinical competence and moral purpose—an approach that reflects the university’s belief that nursing is not only a career, but a calling to serve.
Explore USM’s Traditional BSN program.
Frequently Asked Questions
What degree do you need to become a registered nurse?
Registered nurse candidates typically complete an approved nursing program such as a BSN or ADN, then pass the NCLEX-RN and meet state licensure requirements.
Can you become an RN with a BSN?
Yes. A BSN is one pathway to becoming an RN. Graduates of approved BSN programs may pursue RN licensure after meeting state requirements and passing the NCLEX-RN.
How long does it take to become an RN?
The timeline depends on the degree pathway. A traditional BSN commonly takes four years for first-time college students, while students with prior college credit may be able to finish sooner.
Do you have to pass the NCLEX to become an RN?
Yes. RN candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN as part of the licensure process, along with meeting state board requirements.
Is a BSN better than an ADN for becoming an RN?
Both degrees can lead to RN licensure, but a BSN offers broader preparation and may support more long-term career flexibility, employer preference, and graduate study.
Where do registered nurses work?
Registered nurses work in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, schools, public health, home health, and other healthcare settings.
Take the next step toward becoming an RN
If you want a nursing degree that combines clinical preparation, ethical development, and a clear path toward RN licensure, the University of Saint Mary’s Traditional BSN program can help you prepare for your future in nursing.
Explore the Traditional BSN Program
Additional Links
USM's BSN Program
About BSN programs and nursing
Additional Links
USM's BSN Program
About BSN programs and nursing