Finding the best RN program might sound simple enough, but there is a lot that goes into this decision. While there are numerous programs available—each with different timelines and approaches—the school you choose will directly shape your clinical experience and preparation for the NCLEX-RN licensing exam.

You have to choose wisely. An RN program will impact your early professional network and readiness for practice. Stronger clinical placements during school can lead directly to job offers. This could mean working in settings where you’ve already built meaningful connections with the employer or mentors you’ve worked with during your clinicals.

While certain factors (like accreditation and student success stories) can be markers of the “best,” the best RN program for you will also align with your personal and professional needs. It’s important to find a program that is comprehensive, flexible, and hands-on, where you’ll gain experience in areas of nursing that interest you.

Let’s explore the many types of RN programs and how to find the right one to support your nursing goals.

The different types of RN programs

Make an informed decision when picking an RN program, and you can do this by knowing your options. Today, most aspiring nurses choose from two main educational routes: earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or completing an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN).

If you begin your career with an Associate Degree in Nursing, you don’t have to stop there. Many nurses start with an ADN to enter the workforce quickly, then pursue bridge or RN-to-BSN programs later on.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

The associate degree pathway requires two years of focused study and offers the most cost-effective entry into registered nursing.

Associate degree in Nursing programs emphasize essential skills, clinical competencies, and core knowledge for safe and effective patient care, covering subjects such as anatomy, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, obstetrics, psychiatry, and community health.

ADN programs suit students seeking a quick yet comprehensive route into the workforce. These programs minimize debt and offer flexible scheduling, such as evening and weekend courses. Clinical rotations provide hands-on experience across hospitals and community clinics.

ADN graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam and, upon successful completion, practice as an RN. However, please note that some healthcare employers prefer BSN-prepared nurses for specific roles.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The BSN pathway typically requires four years of study, with accelerated options for students who already hold college credits or degrees. BSN programs cover all ADN content while adding coursework in leadership, research, community health, evidence-based practice, and healthcare policy.

This broader education prepares graduates for complex patient care, leadership roles, and advanced communication and critical thinking. Employers often prefer BSN-prepared nurses for specialty areas (like oncology), military roles, management tracks, and Magnet-designated hospitals.

A BSN is also the minimum requirement for graduate study, leading to advanced roles such as Nurse Practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, educator, or administrator.

Accelerated and bridge program options

Accelerated BSN programs allow students with a prior bachelor’s degree to earn a nursing credential in 12–18 months of intensive study, leveraging their existing academic and life experience.

RN-to-BSN bridge programs serve practicing nurses with an associate degree, offering flexible online or hybrid formats with evening and weekend options. These pathways let nurses advance their education without interrupting their careers, with the ability to earn a bachelor’s degree in just 12 months part-time.

Students should weigh RN program type against their timeline, career goals, finances, and learning preferences, considering factors such as relocation, advancement opportunities, and future specialization.

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What to look for in the best RN programs

When searching for the best RN programs, several key factors can determine the quality of education and career potential. Choose wisely by looking beyond convenience or cost, to assess program strengths and alignment with your goals.

Accredited programs

Accreditation is a critical factor that vouches for program quality, granting licensures, certificates, and degrees. Only graduates of accredited programs can sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and become licensed nurses.

Recognized accrediting bodies include CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education) and ACEN (Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing), which review programs every 5–10 years to maintain standards.

Accreditation validates curriculum, faculty, clinical partnerships, and student outcomes, makes students eligible for federal financial aid, improves employment opportunities, facilitates credit transfer, and enables specialty certification. Non-accredited programs can prevent licensure, creating costly delays and potentially sacrificing good money to ineffective teaching methods and policies.

Scheduling flexibility

For aspiring nurses with no prior experience, most courses for ADN and entry-level BSN programs are in person. This is due to the hands-on nature and requirements of a nursing career. However, scheduling flexibility is increasingly important when balancing work and family. Therefore, many schools offer online theory, hybrid formats, and evening or weekend classes for nursing students. Clinical rotations, however, must be completed in person.

Quality of the curriculum

Curriculum quality should strike a balance between core nursing fundamentals and specialized courses, emphasizing general education that fosters critical thinking, effective communication, and analytical skills.

The best RN programs cover the basics surrounding medical-surgical, pediatric, maternity, psychiatric, and community health nursing, with advanced courses in leadership, research, and evidence-based practice.

Clinical experiences

Clinical experiences offer real-world training in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community settings. Evaluate the program’s clinical partners, student-to-instructor ratios, and variety of practice environments. Strong clinical programs often lead to job offers from affiliated facilities.

Growth opportunities, such as clear pathways to BSN, MSN, or advanced nursing specializations, should also be considered. In addition, robust student support services, including academic advising, tutoring, NCLEX preparation, and career guidance, are available.

By systematically evaluating these factors, students can select programs that provide quality education, professional recognition, and strong preparation for a successful nursing career.

Choosing the best RN program for you

Choosing the best RN program for you requires careful thought to match your personal circumstances and long-term career goals. Practical considerations are equally important. Think about how location, total program costs, and time commitments fit with your work, family, and other responsibilities.

Program formats can also affect your learning experience. Some students thrive in traditional classrooms, while others prefer the flexibility of online or hybrid models that combine remote coursework with in-person labs and clinical experiences.

The quality of mentorship and clinical opportunities plays a major role in your education. NCLEX pass rates, job placement statistics, alumni career progression, student testimonials, and feedback from employers provide insight into how well a program prepares graduates for professional success.

The time is now to become an RN

As of 2025, nursing is experiencing unprecedented growth, with hospitals and facilities actively seeking qualified Registered Nurses to meet rising patient demands. Now is the time to become a nurse.

Plus, the latest BLS data shows that RNs earned a median annual wage of $93,600. Earnings typically range from $66,000 in the lowest 10% to more than $135,000 for those in the highest 10%. This surge in opportunity makes choosing the right RN program more critical than ever for your nursing career success.

Goodwin’s RN program helps you grow

Choosing the right RN program will lay the foundation for a rewarding nursing career that combines personal fulfillment with professional growth. Nursing offers the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives while building a stable, well-compensated career with opportunities for advancement across bedside care, leadership, education, and specialized practice.

Goodwin’s accredited RN programs provide comprehensive education, hands-on clinical experience, and the support needed to succeed in today’s healthcare environment.

Apply today or request more information to see where our RN program can take you.