How Long is Nursing School?
Your nursing school journey will vary depending on several factors, including your desired license, availability, and prior education. This article breaks down nursing program lengths at each level to help you determine how long nursing school will be.
There are nearly 6 million nurses practicing nationwide. If you want to join this rewarding career field, you're probably already asking, how long is nursing school?
Nursing School Length: Key Facts to Know
- Average Time to Become an RN: You can earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) in two years, while a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) takes four.
- Average Time to Become an APRN: In addition to your prior degrees, licensure, and experience, Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs take 1-2 years, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) takes 2-5.
- BSN-RN vs ADN-RN: Despite the two-year difference in program length, BSNs may be preferential as 25% of employers require a BSN, and nearly 70% strongly prefer it, according to a 2022 report from the AACN.
How Long is Nursing School?
Several factors will impact the length of your nursing schooling. But the most important variable is which nursing track you pursue. From nursing assistants to registered nurses and beyond, completing your nursing education can take anywhere from 4 weeks to 7 years.
Nursing School Length by Program
| Program/Degree | Length | Career Track |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | 4-12 weeks | CNA |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse (LPN/LVN) | 1-2 years | LPN/LVN |
| Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) | 2 years | Registered Nurse |
| Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) | 4 years | Registered Nurse |
| RN to BSN Program | 1-2 years | Registered Nurse |
| Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) | 2 years |
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) |
| RN to MSN Program | 2-4 years | APRN |
| Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) | 2-5 years | APRN, Nurse Leadership and Administration |
| Ph.D. in Nursing | 3-7 years |
APRN, Nurse Researcher, Nurse Educator |
| Nurse Practitioner (NP) | 2-4 years | APRN, NP |
| Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) | 2-3 years | APRN, CRNA |
Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs
Gain the skills and credentials to advance into nurse management and leadership roles, while laying the groundwork to pursue future nurse practitioner or advanced practice roles. Complete your courses online, on your schedule, at Purdue Global’s School of Nursing.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, but certain programs have state restrictions. Check with Purdue for details.
WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE accredited, nonprofit university offering nursing bachelor's and master's degrees.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
The University of Texas at Arlington’s online programs are designed to help you achieve more in your nursing practice with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. They offer convenient, flexible options for completing your RN to BSN online, designed to fit into your busy schedule.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
GCU’s RN-BSN program is tailored to meet the needs of the RN adult learner and to maximize the strengths that the working RN already possesses. Transfer up to 90 credits and earn a BSN in as little as 12 months. GCU’s online classes allow you to study at the times that work for your schedule while still enjoying a close connection with your classmates and instructor via online discussions.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
As a pioneer in distance learning since 1985, Liberty University’s online nursing programs are designed to prepare practicing nurses to serve with integrity by teaching advanced skills from an ethical perspective. Liberty's programs are based on industry best practices and up-to-date research – so you can get the tools you need to stay on the cutting edge of nursing care and innovation.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
What Are the Fastest Nursing Programs?
The fastest way to become a registered nurse is by earning an ADN. However, you can pursue other nursing careers without needing RN licensure. Namely, you can become a certified nursing assistant (CNA) or a licensed practical nurse (LPN).
Certified Nursing Assistant
Completing a certified nursing assistant (CNA) program generally takes 4-12 weeks. CNAs are also known as nurse's aides, patient care assistants, or nursing assistants. As the title suggests, they report to and assist registered or licensed practical nurses.
You can become a CNA by taking a state-approved training program from local hospitals or community colleges. After passing the program, you will be eligible to take a state-administered competency exam in two parts: a written test and a practical skills exam. Passing this test certifies you to work as a CNA.
Licensed Practical Nurse
Licensed practical nurse (LPN) school can take seven months to two years to complete. The time it takes you to graduate from an LPN program depends on which program you choose and whether you attend it full-time.
Accelerated LPN programs take as little as seven months to complete if you attend them full-time. This may be the fastest way to get an LPN license since most programs take 1-2 years, depending on how many credits students can take.
How Long are Registered Nursing Programs?
Becoming a registered nurse (RN) takes around 2-4 years of college, depending on your chosen nursing program. ADN programs can be as short as two years, while BSN programs take about 4.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program takes two years to complete, making it the shortest path to becoming an RN. ADNs do not receive the same training in leadership and research as BSNs. However, they do learn the same nursing procedures as BSN-RNs and work in the same settings.
Community colleges offer ADN programs with classwork that you can complete online or in person full-time or part-time. Most ADN students will complete at least 700 in-person clinical hours before graduation.
Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs
Gain the skills and credentials to advance into nurse management and leadership roles, while laying the groundwork to pursue future nurse practitioner or advanced practice roles. Complete your courses online, on your schedule, at Purdue Global’s School of Nursing.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, but certain programs have state restrictions. Check with Purdue for details.
WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE accredited, nonprofit university offering nursing bachelor's and master's degrees.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
The University of Texas at Arlington’s online programs are designed to help you achieve more in your nursing practice with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. They offer convenient, flexible options for completing your RN to BSN online, designed to fit into your busy schedule.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
GCU’s RN-BSN program is tailored to meet the needs of the RN adult learner and to maximize the strengths that the working RN already possesses. Transfer up to 90 credits and earn a BSN in as little as 12 months. GCU’s online classes allow you to study at the times that work for your schedule while still enjoying a close connection with your classmates and instructor via online discussions.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
As a pioneer in distance learning since 1985, Liberty University’s online nursing programs are designed to prepare practicing nurses to serve with integrity by teaching advanced skills from an ethical perspective. Liberty's programs are based on industry best practices and up-to-date research – so you can get the tools you need to stay on the cutting edge of nursing care and innovation.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
BSN programs take four years of full-time study to complete. Though BSN degrees cost more than ADNs for the same price, there's still an incentive to earn them over ADNs. Often, BSN-RNs earn higher salaries and have more leadership and advancement opportunities.
BSN programs include two years of gen-eds like English Comp, Stats, and other nursing program prerequisites. After that, you'll complete two more years of school. These courses include nursing-focused education with advanced nursing principles and clinical training.
Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs
Gain the skills and credentials to advance into nurse management and leadership roles, while laying the groundwork to pursue future nurse practitioner or advanced practice roles. Complete your courses online, on your schedule, at Purdue Global’s School of Nursing.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, but certain programs have state restrictions. Check with Purdue for details.
WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE accredited, nonprofit university offering nursing bachelor's and master's degrees.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
The University of Texas at Arlington’s online programs are designed to help you achieve more in your nursing practice with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. They offer convenient, flexible options for completing your RN to BSN online, designed to fit into your busy schedule.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
GCU’s RN-BSN program is tailored to meet the needs of the RN adult learner and to maximize the strengths that the working RN already possesses. Transfer up to 90 credits and earn a BSN in as little as 12 months. GCU’s online classes allow you to study at the times that work for your schedule while still enjoying a close connection with your classmates and instructor via online discussions.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
As a pioneer in distance learning since 1985, Liberty University’s online nursing programs are designed to prepare practicing nurses to serve with integrity by teaching advanced skills from an ethical perspective. Liberty's programs are based on industry best practices and up-to-date research – so you can get the tools you need to stay on the cutting edge of nursing care and innovation.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
RN to BSN Bridge Programs
RN to BSN programs often take less than two years to complete and are designed for ADN-trained registered nurses. You can complete many RN-to-BSN programs online, making them perfect for ADNs hoping to expand their career opportunities while continuing to work.
Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs
Gain the skills and credentials to advance into nurse management and leadership roles, while laying the groundwork to pursue future nurse practitioner or advanced practice roles. Complete your courses online, on your schedule, at Purdue Global’s School of Nursing.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, but certain programs have state restrictions. Check with Purdue for details.
WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE accredited, nonprofit university offering nursing bachelor's and master's degrees.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
The University of Texas at Arlington’s online programs are designed to help you achieve more in your nursing practice with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. They offer convenient, flexible options for completing your RN to BSN online, designed to fit into your busy schedule.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
GCU’s RN-BSN program is tailored to meet the needs of the RN adult learner and to maximize the strengths that the working RN already possesses. Transfer up to 90 credits and earn a BSN in as little as 12 months. GCU’s online classes allow you to study at the times that work for your schedule while still enjoying a close connection with your classmates and instructor via online discussions.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
As a pioneer in distance learning since 1985, Liberty University’s online nursing programs are designed to prepare practicing nurses to serve with integrity by teaching advanced skills from an ethical perspective. Liberty's programs are based on industry best practices and up-to-date research – so you can get the tools you need to stay on the cutting edge of nursing care and innovation.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
How Long are Advanced Practice Registered Nursing Programs?
Becoming an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) requires a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, which takes between 2-4 years to complete.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
MSN programs generally take two years after earning a BSN degree, equating to six years of total nursing schooling. However, ample clinical experience can reduce that timeline to 18-24 months.
Earning your MSN won't just make you eligible for nursing jobs with higher salaries; it will also give you an advanced level of nursing education that encompasses training in leadership, community and public health, research, and ethics.
RN to MSN Bridge Programs
ADN-trained nurses can complete RN-to-MSN programs in 2-3 years. This type of program supplements the MSN education with the baccalaureate education that ADNs are missing. Similarly, non-nursing bachelor's degree holders may attend a direct-entry MSN program to supplement their BSN education and earn an MSN in 2-3 years.
Popular Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs
Earn a valuable nursing credential at Purdue Global’s School of Nursing. Expand your expertise and prepare to take on leadership and independent practice opportunities. Complete your courses online, on your schedule.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, but certain programs have state restrictions. Check with Purdue for details.
WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE accredited, nonprofit university offering nursing bachelor's and master's degrees.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
GCU's College of Nursing and Health Care Professions has a nearly 35-year tradition of preparing students to fill evolving healthcare roles as highly qualified professionals.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
Earn your nursing degree from one of the largest nursing education providers in the U.S. Walden University’s BSN, MSN, post-master’s APRN certificate, and DNP programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Get enhanced practicum support with our Practicum Pledge.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding CT, ND, NY and RI. Certain programs have additional state restrictions. Check with Walden for details.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Depending on your prior education, you can earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in 2-5 years. The average DNP program length by education level is as follows:
- ADN: 5 years
- BSN: 3-4 years
- MSN: 2 years
The Doctor of Nursing Practice degree represents the highest level of nursing expertise and leadership. As a DNP-holding nurse, you may serve various roles, from clinical settings or administration to education and healthcare policy.
Ph.D. in Nursing Programs
Completing a Ph.D. in Nursing generally takes at least three years of full-time scholarship. Ph.D. in nursing programs only admit MSN-educated students with clinical experience. They require up to 70 credit hours of classroom education and a research dissertation to graduate. Instead of clinical settings, those with a Ph.D. in nursing often work in research or academia.
>> Show Me Online Nursing Programs
Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs
Completing a nurse practitioner degree takes two to four years. You can complete both MSN and DNP programs to become a nurse practitioner (NP). MSN-trained NPs spend two years in graduate school, while DNPs have four.
Candidates must have RN licensure and clinical experience before becoming eligible for these programs. If you are an ADN-RN, you can attend an RN-to-MSN program to become a nurse practitioner without first earning a BSN.
>> Show Me Online Nurse Practitioner Programs
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) School
CRNA school must award a DNP degree, which takes 2-3 years to complete. However, CRNA school requirements take several years and a lot of hard work to achieve.
Certified registered nurse anesthetists specialize in providing anesthesia-related care before, during, and after medical procedures. They are among the highest-paid nurses, which reflects the level of knowledge and skill required to perform their duties.
Factors that Impact How Long Nursing School Will Take
By now, we know that your chosen career path and degree will impact how long it takes you to complete nursing school. However, there are still other factors that may alter your nursing school timeline, including the following:
- Full vs. Part-Time Attendance: Full-time attendance is the fastest way to finish nursing school. However, your finances and availability may make part-time attendance your only option, which will increase your educational timeline.
- Educational Hiatuses: Breaks provide respite from rigorous academics and allow you to earn the clinical experience necessary for advanced degrees. However, the length of these breaks will affect how long it takes you to reach your nursing education goals.
- Accelerated Learning Tracks: Fast-track nursing programs like ABSN or accelerated NP programs can help you become a nurse faster. For example, ABSN degrees can range from 1-2 years, cutting the time it takes to earn a BSN in half or less.
