Nurses form the cornerstone of healthcare, providing vital patient care and support across medical settings. As compassionate caregivers and skilled healthcare professionals, nurses handle everything from routine wellness checks to critical emergency care—making nursing an admirable career path to pursue.

But, the variety of educational pathways for nurses can feel overwhelming. From CNAs and LPNs to RNs with different certification levels, the sheer number of options might leave you wondering: What degree do you need to be a nurse? How do your educational background, your current commitments, and your long-term goals factor into this important decision?

Let’s explore the five main types of nursing degrees and what each can offer you. Understanding these pathways can help you choose the degree program that best aligns with your overall nursing career goals.

Nursing Programs

5 Types of Nursing Degrees and What They Offer

If you want to enter the nursing field, there are a few options to consider, from entry-level certifications to advanced degrees.

1. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) assist patients with daily activities and monitor vital signs under the supervision of licensed nurses.

A CNA program typically takes 4–12 weeks to complete, including classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training.¹ This role could help you gain valuable nursing care experience before committing to a degree program.

If you are wondering how to prepare for nursing school or explore introductory roles like a CNA, starting with this certification might provide clarity about your interest in the field.

2. Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)

LPNs and LVNs deliver primary patient care alongside registered nurses and physicians.

Everyday LPN responsibilities include:

• Monitoring patient vital signs
• Administering medications
• Helping in routine medical procedures
• Maintaining patient records
• Assisting with personal care needs

A Licensed Practical Nurse program typically requires you to complete a one-year diploma or certificate covering fundamental nursing skills and clinical practice. This role can be the bridge to becoming a registered nurse that allows LPNs to become registered nurses.

3. Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

A Registered Nurse (RN) serves as the backbone of patient care, working directly with patients and physicians to coordinate care and implement treatment plans.

With an ADN, registered nurses:

• Assess patient conditions
• Create care plans
• Work with healthcare teams
• Use medical equipment
• Run diagnostic tests
• Teach patients about health management

ADN programs provide nursing education through a two-year curriculum that combines core nursing skills and supervised clinical experience.

4. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

A bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) is one of the most common pathways into healthcare for future nurses.² This nursing program covers nursing theory, clinical experience, and health sciences and emphasizes critical thinking, leadership skills, and evidence-based practice.

BSN-prepared nurses often take on additional responsibilities in patient care and specialized nursing areas such as pediatric nursing, critical care, and surgical nursing. If you're asking, “What do you learn in nursing school?” at this level, expect a deeper dive into health sciences, leadership training, and advanced clinical applications.

5. Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

A master’s degree may prepare nurses for advanced practice roles such as nurse practitioner, nurse educator, and clinical nurse leader.

MSN programs build expertise in:

• Clinical decision making
• Healthcare policy
• Nursing education
• Research methods
• Healthcare systems management

How to Choose the Right Nursing Degree for Your Goals

Selecting the appropriate nursing program for you depends on several factors:

• Time available for intensive study
• Previous healthcare experience
• Current educational level
• Academic strengths
• Personal commitments
• Financial resources

Ultimately, your choice of program should be compatible with your current circumstances and future educational goals.

Think About Your Education Budget and Financial Aid Options

While nursing education requires financial investment, do not let finances stop you from pursuing your dreams. Schools often offer flexible payment plans, and financial aid advisors can help you explore scholarships, grants, and other funding options. Many students successfully combine different funding sources to make their education possible.

Special Considerations for Nursing Programs in Phoenix, Arizona

Arizona maintains specific educational and licensing requirements for each nursing level.³

If you want learn how to be a nurse in Arizona, you will need:

• Certification – Earn a nursing degree like an ADN, BSN, or MSN.
• Exams – Pass the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX).
• License – Hold an active Arizona State License after passing a nursing program and the NCLEX.

The state board of nursing oversees these requirements to ensure quality healthcare—local healthcare facilities partner with nursing programs to provide clinical placement for students in the Phoenix area.

Nursing Degree FAQs 

Ultimately, understanding different nursing education pathways is important to helping you make an informed decision about your future studies. If you still have questions, take a look at some common nursing education queries and their answers below.

Can I start as a CNA or LPN and later become an RN or BSN?

Yes! In fact, many programs offer bridge programs designed for CNAs and LPNs to advance their nursing education and qualify as RNs.

Do I need a BSN to become a registered nurse?

No. You can become an RN with an ADN. However, a BSN may provide additional leadership training and specialized career options.

What if I already have a degree in a different field?

Accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs accommodate students with a non-nursing bachelor's degree. These intensive programs usually take 12–18 months to complete, are tailored for students with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, and can lead to an RN license.

How long does it take to complete each nursing degree?

Each nursing education pathway has a different timeline based on the depth of training required. Here’s a brief overview:

• CNA – 4-12 weeks
• LPN – 1 year
• ADN – 2 years
• BSN – 2-4 years
• ABSN – 12-18 months
• MSN – 2 years post-BSN

Although these timeframes are not concrete, knowing the general ballpark can help you plan your educational journey and choose the path that best fits your schedule and goals.

Ready to Take the First Step?

Each nursing education pathway offers unique advantages and can lead to a fulfilling healthcare career. When choosing a program, consider your personal circumstances, educational goals, and available resources. Remember that nursing education provides flexibility—you can start with an entry-level program and advance your education over time as your career evolves.

Start or Continue Your Nursing Education with Alliant International University

At Alliant International University, our BSN and MSN-DE programs provide students with experience in contemporary healthcare practices.

Ready to explore your nursing education options? Contact our admissions team to learn more about our programs and find the path to your future nursing career.

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Sources: 

1. American Red Cross. “Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) Classes & Nurse Assistant Training (NAT).” Accessed on February 20, 2025 https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/lp/certified-nursing-assistant-nat
2. National Center for Health Workforce Analysis. “Nursing Education and Training: Data from the 2022 NSSRN.” HSRA. March 2024. https://bhw.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/bureau-health-workforce/data-r… Accessed November 15, 2024
3. Arizona Board of Nursing. “Registered Nursing & Licensed Practical Nurse Endorsement.” Accessed November 15, 2024 https://azbn.gov/licenses-and-certifications/apply-license