There are more than 3.3 million registered nurses (RNs) in the nursing field today. And yet, experts estimate that at least 197,200 more nurses are needed each year to meet the country’s growing demand for healthcare. Without a doubt, now is a great time to become a nurse. The question is, how can you become a nurse quickly and start making an impact fast?

Fast-track nursing programs are increasing in demand and popularity, helping to prepare aspiring nurses quickly while still maintaining high-quality curricula, training experiences, and patient care.

Read on to explore the fastest way to become a nurse. Plus, get tips on how to complete your nursing degree as quickly as possible.

The fastest ways to become a nurse

Registered nurses (RNs) have the critical responsibility of caring for patients who are sick, injured, disabled, and seeking medical care. To do this effectively, they must have the proper education, experience, and practical skill sets to help their patients in times of need.

There are many pathways to becoming a nurse. To become a registered nurse, for example, you can pursue an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree in Nursing. You can also begin to dip your toes into nursing through a variety of entry-level nursing and nursing assistant programs.

Let’s explore some of the fastest ways to become a nurse today.

Associate Degree in Nursing

While there are many ways to enter the Nursing profession, not everyone knows it’s possible to qualify for an RN license with an associate degree in Nursing. This program is by far the fastest way to become an RN, taking between two and three years to complete (including prerequisite courses). The associate degree path is ideal for aspiring nurses who want to earn their RN license without a lengthy academic commitment (like a bachelor’s degree). Students gain a solid foundation through core nursing courses and hands-on clinical experiences, ensuring they are prepared to meet the demands of the profession.

For nurses seeking flexibility, some universities offer part-time and full-time options, with classes available during the day, evening, or weekend, as well as a variety of clinical rotation options. Graduates with an associate degree in Nursing are eligible to pursue their NCLEX-RN exam and RN license, allowing for a quick entry into the workforce.

As you explore RN career options, you might find that some employers seek or prefer candidates with a bachelor’s in Nursing (BSN). The beauty of an associate degree in Nursing is that it allows you to get licensed and into the field fast; however, you can always go back to school to complete your BSN degree quickly, too, through an online RN-to-BSN program.

Or, if you have a bachelor’s degree in another subject but are seeking a career change, you might look for an accelerated BSN program that could cut your time in nursing school down significantly.

Licensed Practical Nurse Program

For those seeking an even speedier route into nursing, a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program is a great option. Practical nursing programs offer a certificate or diploma that can be completed in just one to two years.

Because training requirements are less intensive (and shorter in length), LPNs have a more limited scope of work than that of RNs. However, the LPN role offers valuable experience for those beginning their nursing careers. LPNs provide basic patient care under the supervision of registered nurses and nurse practitioners.

For LPNs seeking to expand their role and qualify for more nursing positions, an LPN-to-RN bridge program offers a clear pathway to earning an associate degree and preparing for an RN license in as little as one to two years, thereby creating opportunities for expanded responsibilities and more autonomy in the field.

Patient Care Assistant Program / Nursing Assistant Program

A Patient Care Assistant (PCA) program offers one of the quickest ways to begin working in a healthcare environment, often taking just a few months to complete. These programs are a great stepping stone into nursing; however, they will not qualify you to become a nurse directly.

PCA programs prepare you to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and, eventually, a Patient Care Associate (PCA). Patient Care Associates focus on providing daily living support to clients who are elderly, disabled, or recovering from illness or surgery. They provide basic clinical care, give comfort, and help support patients in recovery. They also collect laboratory samples and perform EKGs, with the proper training under their belts.

Patient Care Associate programs build strong clinical skills through expert teaching, hands-on training, and a job-focused curriculum. At Goodwin, students also become CNAs in their journey towards patient care. By the end of the first semester, students earn a CNA license and can start working in a nursing environment right away.

Although a PCA program does not lead to RN licensing, it can serve as an entry-level healthcare experience before pursuing more advanced nursing roles.

Learn how to break into Nursing fast through Goodwin University.

Tips to complete your nursing degree fast

Aspiring registered nurses must complete a set number of classroom and clinical hours before they can qualify for their license. However, there are several ways to move through your program quickly. Here are some tips to consider when working through the fastest way to become an RN or practical nurse.

1. Transfer prior credits

This is one of the most effective strategies to complete a degree faster. If you have already earned science or prerequisite credits from previous college courses, you can apply them toward your degree. Some schools also accept transfer credits for professional development training, military service, work experience, or volunteer work. Meeting with admissions specialists early can help you determine how to maximize your transfer opportunities and shorten your path to graduation.

2. Take accelerated courses

Another option is to take accelerated courses. These classes cover the same material as traditional courses, but in a condensed time frame, allowing you to progress at a faster pace. Accelerated courses are often available during intensive summer sessions or as part of year-round academic schedules. For students who are eager to enter the workforce quickly, this approach can significantly reduce the time spent in school.

3. Add extra courses

Taking extra courses each term can help you complete your degree more quickly. Adding more classes to your regular semester schedule or enrolling in summer terms can help you meet your requirements sooner. Completing your courses in a full-time format is typically the fastest route.

Some schools even offer three academic sessions per year instead of the traditional two semesters, giving students additional opportunities to advance their studies and graduate ahead of schedule.

Nursing programs at Goodwin University

Goodwin makes finding the fastest way to become a nurse easy. We offer certificate, associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and career advancement Nursing degree programs—designed with flexibility in mind. Whether you are starting your nursing journey or advancing your career, Goodwin’s nursing school offers pathways that fit your schedule and goals.

Hundreds of Goodwin’s nursing graduates work in hospitals and healthcare centers throughout Connecticut. Employers consistently recognize our graduates for their compassion, skill, and dedication to delivering safe, quality patient care.

A Goodwin Nursing degree can lead to a fulfilling career with personal satisfaction, professional respect, and the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives. And we can help you get there fast.

Learn more about the Nursing programs at Goodwin University to see if nursing is the right career choice for you.