Yes, through options like Accelerated BSN, ADN, or LPN-to-RN bridge programs, you can care for patients as an RN in just two years—securing your position as a nurse much faster than if you were to follow the traditional route.
Everyone says that time is money. Well, when growing up and building careers, we invest both—a significant amount of time and substantial sums of money. When pursuing careers in healthcare, considering the high costs of education and the years it takes to prepare for these roles, finding ways to shorten the educational period can make a huge difference.
For instance, can you become an RN in 2 years instead of the usual four? Well, the short answer is yes. Choosing an accelerated path to becoming a registered nurse (RN) can help you make the most of both your time and money.
How You Can Become An RN In 2 Years
Typically, the educational requirements to become an RN include completing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). This option takes around four years. However, if you’re one of those people seeking shorter time frames, luckily, there are several options that enable you to become an RN much faster, in as little as two years. These options include:
Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Programs
The first option is to pursue an accelerated BSN program. Such programs are typically designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing.
These programs take into account the academic and professional experience you’ve already gained, allowing you to focus on nursing-specific coursework and clinical training. An ABSN program typically lasts between 12 to 24 months, depending on the institution and whether the program is full-time or part-time.
ABSN programs are fast-paced but still just as thorough and rigorous as the standard options, with a heavy course load and intense clinical rotations. The curriculum usually encompasses advanced courses in anatomy, pharmacology, patient care, and health assessment, to equip students with the knowledge they need to pass the NCLEX exam.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs
An Associate Degree in Nursing is another excellent fast-track option for becoming an RN in about two years. It covers the fundamentals of nursing, patient care, and health sciences. Ultimately, graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam, just like BSN graduates, and upon passing, they can work as registered nurses.
However, unlike the ABSN, which usually requires a prior non-nursing bachelor’s degree, ADN programs tend to be open to anyone who meets the school’s admission criteria, which typically include a high school diploma or GED and specific prerequisite courses in subjects like biology and chemistry.
ADN programs are typically offered by community colleges and, in some cases, also in technical schools. Therefore, they are particularly appealing to students who may be balancing other responsibilities, such as work or family, as they tend to be more flexible and accessible than some other nursing programs.
Still, many ADN graduates choose to pursue further education down the line, often completing a BSN through an RN-to-BSN bridge program. This route allows them to gain valuable work experience and earn an income while continuing to advance their education later.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to RN programs
Licensed Practical Nurses are another type of nurse who helps provide basic nursing care to patients. However, they work under the supervision of RNs and doctors. For those already working in this role, there is an option to advance to RN status through an LPN-to-RN bridge program.
LPN-to-RN programs aim to build on the skills and knowledge that LPNs have already acquired during their studies and work experience by covering more advanced nursing concepts and patient care techniques than standard LPN training to prepare students for the increased responsibilities and autonomy associated with being an RN.
Such programs are typically completed in about one to two years, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time. Once again, upon completing such a program, graduates are eligible to sit the NCLEX-RN exam and earn their RN license.
Pros and Cons of Becoming an RN in 2 Years
The first obvious advantage to becoming an RN in two years is, of course, the speed at which you can enter the healthcare field. But in addition to that, there are also other advantages to entering the field in this way, as well as some disadvantages to keep in mind.
Advantages of becoming an RN in 2 years
Generally, shorter programs tend to cost less than the longer, four-year degree programs. Therefore, in terms of cost, it’s highly beneficial for students who have fewer worries about student debt when they pursue the same career but spend less doing so. Additionally, since you’ll enter the workforce sooner, you’ll be able to start earning a salary sooner, which can help offset educational expenses and reduce overall financial burden.
Another great thing about starting with a two-year RN program is that it doesn’t mean you have to stop there. As an RN, you can then choose to pursue additional education after gaining experience, either through an RN-to-BSN bridge program or some other advanced degree. Such flexibility means you can advance academically while already earning a salary and gaining experience.
Disadvantages of becoming an RN in 2 years
Though there are obviously many advantages to becoming an RN through accelerated degree options, the thing to keep in mind is that because these options are fast-paced, they need to pack a lot of information in a short period. This can make the program challenging, especially if you’re balancing other responsibilities like work or family.
Moreover, there are some limitations in terms of employment, especially when it comes to ADN or LPN-to-RN nurses. Some employers, particularly ones in large hospitals or specialized facilities, often prefer or at times may even directly require a BSN or some advanced degree for jobs in certain specialized areas or for certain positions.
So, for nurses who want to progress to leadership, specialized, or administrative roles, further education beyond the initial two-year program is often essential.
Job Outlook and Career Growth for RNs
Whether you pursue a career as an RN through the traditional path or choose an accelerated option, it’s important to be well informed and understand the opportunities and job outlook awaiting you.
The good news is that, for registered nurses, the future looks promising. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that employment for these nurses is projected to grow by 6% from 2023 to 2033, outpacing the average growth rate of 4% across all occupations. This steady demand will result in 194,500 job openings annually as healthcare needs expand and current nurses retire.
Additionally, it’s valuable also to explore the opportunities for growth and advancement beyond entry-level positions. For example, some more advanced positions you can pursue after becoming an RN include:
1. Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)
One of the most common paths for RNs looking to advance is to become an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN). This encompasses roles such as Nurse Practitioner (NP), Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), and Nurse Midwife (CNM).
These positions are advanced because they require specialized training to be eligible to perform more complex procedures, prescribe medications, and, at times, even take on leadership roles in patient care.
To become an APRN, you typically need a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, along with relevant certifications in your area of specialization.
2. Nurse Educator
For RNs who enjoy teaching and mentoring more than direct patient care, a career as a nurse educator can also be highly rewarding. Nurse educators work in academic settings, teaching nursing students, or in hospitals, where they help train new nurses and develop ongoing education programs.
Most nurse educator roles require at least a master’s degree in nursing, along with experience in clinical practice.
3. Nurse Manager or Administrator
A master’s degree is also an excellent way to pursue roles centered on leadership and operations. Positions in management or administration require RNs to be skilled in overseeing other nurses, coordinating patient care, managing budgets, and several other areas that help ensure compliance with healthcare regulations.
4. Specialization in a Clinical Area
RNs can also advance by specializing in a specific area of healthcare, such as oncology, pediatrics, emergency care, or intensive care. This will allow them to increase their expertise and become more competitive.
Specializations often require additional certifications, such as those from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), and relevant clinical experience in the chosen field.
5. Research Nurse
Another possible role RNs can aspire to that is less centered on providing direct care to patients is research nurse. In this position, RNs work with physicians, scientists, and other medical workers to advance knowledge of healthcare and related practices.
To be eligible for this role, RNs must have advanced degrees, and many employers value experience and certifications in clinical research.
6. Public Health Nurse
RNs interested in working on a community or population level can consider advancing to public health nursing. Public health nurses focus on preventive care, health education, and outreach, often working with government agencies, nonprofits, or public health departments.
The prerequisites for this role typically include a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in public health or community health nursing.
Conclusion
There is no need to stress and keep wondering, “Can I become an RN in 2 years?” The answer is a resounding yes. Not only is it possible, but you also have more than one option to choose from.
It is more important to determine which option aligns best with your goals and lifestyle, whether it’s an accelerated BSN, ADN, or LPN-to-RN bridge program. So, take some time to consider what each program type offers and whether a fast-track option is the right fit for you.
For those interested in a holistic approach to nursing, AIAM offers an RN program designed to teach clinical skills and the best ways to nurture patients’ mental and spiritual health by emphasizing the mind-body connection.
This program can be completed in just 15 months, or five quarters, and is available to Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or graduates of a Practical Nursing program within the last four years. With us, you’ll achieve success in a fraction of the traditional timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
How much do accelerated nursing programs typically cost?
The cost of accelerated nursing programs varies, but you can generally expect to pay between $20,000 and $80,000 in total, depending on the institution and location. It’s best to research and contact the schools you’re interested in to learn more about the tuition.
Are there online or hybrid RN programs that can be completed in 2 years?
Yes, it’s certainly possible to complete an RN program online or in a hybrid format within two years; in fact, AIAM’s RN program is a hybrid option.