Have you been contemplating a career change to nursing? Nurses are in high demand with a job growth outlook of 6% through 2032, which is faster than the average profession. A nursing career can also be very rewarding and fulfilling because nurses make a real difference in their patient’s lives every day. 

No matter your reason for changing your career to nursing, there is a clear path to follow. Explore the five steps that will help you step into your new career as a nurse. 

Step 1: Assess Your Current Situation and Goals

Before embarking on a career change to nurse, assess where you are now.

Self-Assessment

Ask yourself, “Why do I want a career change to nursing?” You might write a list of pros and cons to help you think through the reasons this change is right, or not right, for you. Also, consider your current career and identify transferable skills and experiences relevant to nursing.

Set Clear Goals for Your Career Change to Nursing

Define what you hope to achieve by becoming a nurse. Write down a list of short-term and long-term career goals within the nursing field. One goal might be, “Apply to three nursing programs.” Add some dates to your goals to map out the ideal timeline. 

Step 2: Research and Choose the Right Nursing Program

When determining how to change careers to nursing, an essential step is obtaining a relevant degree. 

Understanding Nursing Degrees

Various degrees can help you achieve your career change to nursing. Here is an overview of some of the most common nursing degrees. 

ADN: Associate’s Degree in Nursing 

This 2-year undergraduate degree positions you to become an RN or Registered Nurse. For most hopeful nurses, this is the quickest path to becoming a nurse. Employment opportunities are similar to those with a BSN. If you decide to, many programs also offer the opportunity to complete your BSN later through another 2 years of schooling. 

BSN: Bachelor of Science in Nursing 

A BSN is a 4-year degree that prepares students to become Registered Nurses. Because the degree involves more schooling than an ADN, a BSN is often advantageous when applying for nursing jobs. 

Accelerated BSN

With this program, you achieve the same outcome as a BSN, but faster. These programs are designed for those who have already completed a bachelor’s or graduate degree in another field. Your eligibility for these programs depends on your previous studies and typically takes between one and two years. 

MSN: Master of Science in Nursing 

A master’s program will prepare you for a nursing specialty such as nurse anesthetist, nurse midwife, or nurse practitioner. To enter an MSN program, you'll typically need a BSN. However, there are also options for those with undergraduate degrees in other fields or those with an ADN. 

Nursing Program Accreditation and Reputation

After you identify the ideal degree, it’s time to choose the best program. Some measures you can use to weigh your options include job placement rates, whether programs are online or in-person, and costs. 

Additionally, to become an RN, you’ll need to take the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination). Most programs publish their NCLEX pass rates, which is an indicator of how well the program will prepare you to become an RN.

Step 3: Meet Educational and Admission Requirements

When considering nursing programs, seek out the educational and admission requirements so that you can prepare and boost your chances of being accepted.

Prerequisite Courses

Common prerequisite courses for nursing programs include biology, chemistry, nutrition, algebra, and anatomy. If you haven’t taken these courses before, there are various options. I've seen that opting to take some courses at a community college can save students money. Another option is to take these prerequisites online, which may be convenient if you want to continue working while preparing for nursing school.

Application Process

Choose three to five programs that you'd like to apply to. Applying to several programs will likely give you some options if you don't get accepted to your top choice.

Prepare your applications to be as strong as possible. One important element in your application is a letter of recommendation. Some people who could write a letter of recommendation include former teachers, employers, or organizations that you volunteer for. Also, prepare a personal statement detailing your professional experience and interests. 

Some applications may require entrance exams such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or the HESI (Health Education Systems Incorporated) exam. If required, spend enough time preparing for and taking these exams. In some cases, you can provide transcripts from your previous academic experiences instead of taking entrance exams. 

Financial Planning

Nursing school requires a financial investment. In my experience, hopeful students can almost always find a solution for covering costs such as financial aid and scholarships. With persistence, you can find a program that fits into your budget. 

When in doubt, reach out to the admissions offices of the programs you're applying to. I've noticed that admissions officers are happy to help prospective students throughout the process and offer pointers that boost your chances of acceptance.

Step 4: Complete Your Nursing Education

Completing a nursing degree is a crucial step in your career change to nurse. 

Nursing Curriculum

Typical nursing programs include basic coursework as well as core nursing classes. Additionally, you’ll need to complete clinical rotations where you work in a health care setting such as a hospital. 

While completing your degree, be sure to use your program’s resources. Many universities and colleges offer free services for enrolled students such as academic and career counseling. Also, seek out your instructors during their office hours and ask any questions you have. 

In my experience, instructors welcome student questions and can help students who need additional support. Building a positive relationship with your instructor can also help you secure employment upon graduation. 

Step 5: Obtain Licensure and Start Your Nursing Career

An essential last step in starting your nursing career is passing the NCLEX exam.  

NCLEX-RN Exam

Nursing programs prepare students for the NCLEX RN exam. After passing this exam, you're a Registered Nurse. To give it your best shot, take practice tests ahead of time. Many practice questions are available online. 

You can register for the NCLEX RN exam online. You’ll take the exam in person using modern computer testing technology. According to NCLEX, 87% of educated candidates pass the exam. As long as you study hard, you are likely to pass. 

Job Search and Networking

Once you’ve passed your NCLEX exam, you are a Registered Nurse. Now, you can join professional organizations such as the American Nurses Association. Then, prepare your resume and begin applying for jobs. Take advantage of any career services your nursing program offers for graduates. 

Continuing Education and Specialization

Your journey doesn’t end here. Consider further specializations such as a master’s or doctorate that would prepare you to become a nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist. Additionally, you might consider studying to step into a leadership position, teaching, or other career avenues related to nursing and health care. 

Continuing your education can open the doors to more attractive career opportunities. 

Key Takeaways to Successfully Change Your Career to Nursing

Changing your career to nursing can offer a rewarding experience that improves your job opportunities and gives you a sense of fulfillment. With the five steps outlined above, you can successfully step into your new career as a nurse. 

Are you ready to explore changing your career to nursing further? Take this quiz to discover if a career in nursing is right for you!