- 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?
Nursing School Length by Program
Program/DegreeLengthCareer 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 |
