Nursing is an ever-growing profession. Nursing professionals ensure quality care is provided all the time, whether they are ER nurses, nurse managers, or travel nurses. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2028, the number of registered nurses (RNs) may go up by 12% from its 2018 tally (3 million RNs at the time). For people looking to build a career in nursing, here are a few ways to help get started.

Types of certified nurse courses:
When it comes to choosing a field in nursing, it is crucial to understanding its levels.

Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN)
Getting a diploma in practical nursing is the quickest method of starting a career as a licensed practical nurse (LPN). An LPN is trained to provide primary nursing care. They are also equipped to work with physicians and registered nurses (RNs) in nursing homes, urgent care clinics, and hospitals. Training as an LPN can help advance a nursing career in an associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree program.

Associate in Nursing (ADN)
An ADN focuses primarily on technical skills. It is also one of the fastest roads to becoming a Registered Nurse (RN). The program lasts about two years. Its requirements include classroom teaching, clinical rotations, and sometimes even internships. This practical approach increases the demand for RNs in several healthcare settings.

Bachelor’s in Nursing (BSN)
A Bachelor’s in Nursing (BSN) includes substantial theory-based learning. The program includes courses in nursing research, nursing technology, and nursing informatics. Since it has a more theoretical approach, the course takes about four years to complete. However, the program’s longevity enables BSN-certified individuals to opt for advanced nursing programs and better career advancement opportunities.

Master’s in Nursing (MSN)
A Master’s in Nursing (MSN) imparts additional education and training to those ready for roles in management or other nursing specialties. It includes roles as a nurse anesthetic, nurse practitioner, even a nurse-midwife. As for the qualifications, a student is eligible for MSN if they previously hold a BSN and an RN license.

Top universities that provide nursing program:
After deciding on a nursing program, it’s essential to pick the best educational institution. Some universities groom students for the NCLEX-RN exam, a mandatory exam around graduation that helps them become registered nurses. They are: 

Duke University
At the top of the list is Duke University, which is known for its top nursing programs. The university only offers one program for undergraduate nurses (Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing) and other graduate courses like multiple MSN and doctoral programs. One of these programs specializes in nurse anesthetics.

Johns Hopkins University
Students accredited with a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field are eligible for the MSN program. John Hopkins University is also known for its stellar DNP programs that are available to students after completing their MSN.

Georgetown University
Georgetown University is one of the oldest private educational centers that implement Direct-Entry nursing. Its courses offer over 850 hours of diverse clinical settings across Washington, D.C. There’s also an honors program for BSN students, while graduates have a slew of nursing options like the women’s health nurse practitioner and nurse-midwifery specializations.

University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania, with a 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio, is the perfect center for personalized education. Its BSN encourages students to learn in a next-generation simulation lab and even has mentorship programs in place to help them learn from experience. Apart from its MSN and DNP specializations, the university also offers study abroad programs for undergraduate students.