The type of nursing degree a nursing student wants to earn depends on how much education he or she wishes to pursue and the time frame in which he or she wishes to accomplish it. Here is a synopsis of the various types of nursing degrees and the general amount of time it takes to obtain them.

Licensed practical nurses (called licensed vocational nurses in California and Texas) typically attend classes for 12 months on a full-time basis or 18-24 months on a part-time basis at an accredited vocational school, community college, trade school, or even in a hospital setting. Some of the classes may be completed online; however, classes that have lab modules require classroom study. Additionally, hands-on, bedside tasks such as drawing blood, giving injections, and inserting Foley catheters can only be learned in real time at a patient’s bedside. LVNs work in hospital settings and doctor offices, for home health agencies, in nursing homes, or even as school nurses.

The associate degree in nursing (ADN) and the associate degree of science in nursing (ASN) require a two-year investment on a full-time basis. Once the nursing student has completed the scholastic curriculum and has passed the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) for Registered Nurses, he or she is a licensed registered nurse.

A bachelor of science degree in nursing (BSN) requires two years of liberal arts education and two years of nursing instruction. Registered nurses with BSNs assume leadership roles by evaluating LVNs or LPNs as well as other RNs, delegating assignments, planning nursing schedules, and are usually on the fast track for management positions.

A master of science degree in nursing (MSN) consists of further specialized study. The focus here is to groom leaders and educators who will supervise and mentor other nurses. Typically a nurse will choose a specialty field such as clinical nurse specialist, nurse anesthetist, nurse midwife, or nurse practitioner. In fact, per the Department of Labor statistics, there are well over 800 master degree in nursing programs available in the United States. It is difficult to say how long it will take to get a MSN degree because there are competency-based degree programs, accelerated online programs, and a combination of online and campus degree programs that may drastically reduce the amount of time required to get this degree. In general, however, it takes about two years of full-time study or 3-5 years of study on a part-time basis to obtain a master of science degree in nursing.

Doctoral programs in nursing are varied and specialized as well; however, a doctorate in philosophy (Ph.D.) is preferred for nurse executives. A typical time commitment is 4-6 years to complete this degree. Doctor of Nursing (ND), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and Doctor of Nursing Science (DNSc) are just some of the other specific doctorate degrees in nursing.

Advanced educational training is conducive to online study since licensed nurses have had clinical experience and continue to provide patient care under the auspices of nurse supervisors and other nurse mentors. Additionally, as previously noted, nursing course credits may be awarded through completed on-the-job training.

There are many ways to accomplish ones’ nursing goals. Exactly how to earn a nursing degree and the amount of time to earn nursing degrees is contingent upon the amount of time an individual has for study as well as the individual’s commitment, motivation, drive, and determination. The learn and earn nursing degree model works very well to help people who have varied backgrounds and time constraints to accomplish their professional goals.