Important Factors to Consider When it Comes to Picking Where You Want to Study Your Nursing Degree in the USA

First things first, just so you know, it’s already great that you’ve even picked a degree type. The fact that you know that you want to study nursing is already the first big step in learning. Now, you have a lot of other decisions to make, which are worth thinking about before picking a school, so that you’re making an informed decision about where you want to study.

You first need to think about whether you’d like to learn online or in person. Next, try to see if you can use any previous education you might have toward your degree to get it done faster or if you need to start from scratch. Then, speaking of duration, see if there are any accelerated programs for you to engage in, in case you want to get into the working world a bit quicker. Also, consider where in the USA you are, which schools are available to you and also, where you want to eventually work, because this will impact the license you go for.

Online Versus In-Person Learning

One of the first choices you’ll face is whether to take your degree online or in person. Both formats have their perks and challenges, so it’s worth thinking about what suits you best.

Online programs are ideal if you need flexibility. Maybe you’re working, caring for a family or living in an area without easy access to a nursing school. Online learning allows you to balance classes with your other commitments and you can study at your own pace. However, keep in mind that you’ll still need to complete clinical hours in person at an approved healthcare facility, so there’s often some on-site experience involved. With online courses, you need to find the one that’s most suited to your needs. You see, ABSN programs online are great options if you prefer a digital model, at an accredited school that also helps you with clinical placement.

On the other hand, in-person programs offer a more traditional structure. You’ll attend classes on campus, interact directly with professors and have hands-on practice built into your daily routine. However, it does keep you tied to one area, which you don’t have with online options.

Considering Your Previous Education

Your current level of education plays a big role in choosing the right nursing program. If you already hold a degree, you might be able to skip some coursework or jump into an accelerated path.

For example:

If you have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, you could qualify for an accelerated BSN program that takes less time than starting from scratch.
If you’re already a registered nurse with an associate degree, you might look into an RN-to-BSN program to advance your credentials.
If you’ve completed a BSN and want to specialize or move into leadership, a master’s program could be your next step.

Knowing where you stand academically helps you narrow down programs that meet your needs without repeating work you’ve already done.

How Fast Do You Want to Finish?

Not all nursing programs run on the same timeline. Some are designed to be completed at a steady pace, while others are accelerated to get you into the workforce sooner.

Accelerated programs can be intense, as they pack a lot of material into a short period. If you’re ready to focus fully on your studies and handle the fast pace, they can be a great option. Traditional programs give you more breathing room and may be easier to manage if you’re juggling other responsibilities.

Where in the State Do You Want to Be?

Location matters more than you might think. If you’re going to an in-person program, consider whether you want to stay close to home or move to a new area.

If you choose an online program, where you live still impacts your clinical placements and eventual licensing. Some schools have partnerships with specific healthcare facilities, so make sure they can accommodate you in your location.

Understanding State Licensing Differences

Nursing isn’t the same across all states, especially when it comes to licensing. Each state has its own Board of Nursing and its own set of requirements you have to meet. Some states are part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows you to work in multiple states with one license. Others require you to apply for a separate license if you move or want to practice there.

When choosing where to study, consider where you plan to work afterward. If your school is in one state but you want to practice in another, make sure the program prepares you to meet that state’s licensing requirements. This can save you time and stress when it’s time to take the NCLEX and start your career.

Putting It All Together

Picking the right program for you is going to make all the difference in the long run. Deciding on the style of study, such as online or in-person, is your first big task. Then do your research and see if a degree you have already earned can help you finish your program faster. Since becoming a nurse requires you to have a license, you need to think about location more than with other professions. Keeping this all in mind before you pick the program you want to sign up for is definitely worthwhile.