- 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?
Several factors will impact the length of your nursing schooling. But the most important variable is which nursing track you pursue. From nursing assistants to registered nurses and beyond, completing your nursing education can take anywhere from 4 weeks to 7 years.
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 |