How long must you attend college to become a rn nurse?

To become a registered nurse (RN), you typically need to complete a nursing education program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). The length of time it takes to complete a nursing education program varies depending on the type of program you choose. Here are some common nursing programs and their typical durations:

1. Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): This is a 2-year program offered at community colleges and vocational schools. It includes both classroom instruction and clinical experiences. After completing an ADN program, you are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and become an RN.

2. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): This is a 4-year program offered at colleges and universities. It provides a more comprehensive education in nursing, including coursework in liberal arts, sciences, and nursing. After completing a BSN program, you are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and become an RN.

3. Accelerated BSN (ABSN): This is an accelerated program designed for individuals who already have a bachelor's degree in another field. ABSN programs typically take 12 to 18 months to complete and include both classroom instruction and clinical experiences. After completing an ABSN program, you are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and become an RN.

Some nursing programs also offer options for part-time or online study, which can make it easier to fit your education around other commitments.

In addition to the educational requirements, some states may have additional requirements for RN licensure, such as a minimum number of clinical hours or continuing education credits. It's important to check with your state's board of nursing for specific requirements.