How to Become a Nurse Practitioner With a Non-Nursing Bachelor's Degree

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Becoming a nurse can be an incredibly fulfilling and satisfying career choice. Fortunately, you don't have to complete a BSN program to become a nurse if you've already earned a non-nursing bachelor's degree. Pursuing a traditional BSN program can be quite challenging and could take you up to four years to complete.

This can be problematic since you may not have the time to spend on earning your second degree, especially if you're already working. Fortunately, enrolling in an online accelerated BSN nursing program allows you to leverage your non-nursing degree to earn a nursing degree in as little as 16 months. Here are a few simple steps for becoming a registered nurse when you already have a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field:

1. Earn Your BSN

The first step to becoming a registered nurse is through earning a bachelor of science in nursing degree (BSN). Since you already have a bachelor's degree in another field, you don't have to complete the traditional four-year BSN program to become a nurse. Instead, you can enroll in an accelerated BSN program and earn your nursing degree faster. You may also qualify for an accelerated nursing program if you meet the minimum non-nursing college credits.

Many prospective students prefer going through the ABSN program since it takes only 16 months to complete, allowing them to enter the working world sooner. With an online ABSN program, you don't have to physically attend classes or study at a specified time. Instead, you can choose to complete your coursework, especially the theory part, online and at the most convenient time for you. 

However, you must attend on-site simulation labs and clinical experiences in person. Most ABSN programs employ a comprehensive blended learning model that provides you with the knowledge and skills you need to graduate and become a qualified nurse. 

2. Pass the NCLEX

Once you complete the 16-month accelerated BSN program, earn the required credit hours, and graduate, the next step is passing the NCLEX exam. The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) can be taken any time after graduating. However, it's always advisable to spend a few months after you've graduated studying for the NCLEX exam since it can be quite challenging.

You have only three tries per year to take the NCLEX exam, so you need to be well-prepared before taking it. Some students start preparing for the NCLEX exam while still in nursing school. You can incorporate NCLEX into your study routine early to increase your chances of passing the exam.

3. Get Your State RN License

After passing the NCLEX exam, you need to get your nursing license from your state's board of nursing. RN licensing requirements often vary from state to state, so consider checking your state's requirements from the health department website. Once approved by the board of nursing and licensed as a registered nurse, you can start practicing as a professional nurse.

Endnote

As you can see, becoming a nurse when you already have a non-nursing bachelor's degree can be incredibly easy and fast through an online accelerated BSN program. If becoming a registered nurse isn't your end goal, you can advance your career in a competitive nursing specialty that interests you. However, it's always best to spend a few years practicing as a registered nurse to gain valuable work experience before pursuing advanced nursing certifications.

This is a guest blog entry.