If you’re interested in the exciting and rewarding career field of nursing, then you should know that there are different levels of nursing. So if you intend on training to become a nurse, you must first decide which level of nursing that you would like to train for.
Nursing levels include: Certified Nurse Aide (CNA), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), and Registered Nurse (RN). Training to become a CNA typically takes about six weeks, whereas training to become a RN requires more extensive training, including a college education and can take up to six years to complete.
Length of Time to Complete Each Level of Nursing:
- CNA: About six weeks through a vocational school.
- LPN: The length of time that it takes to complete a LPN program depends upon whether or not you’re attending part-time or full-time. You can expect to complete a LPN nursing program anywhere from 12 months to 24 months.
- RN: To become a Registered Nurse requires a college education starting at the associate degree level on up to the master’s degree level. Obviously, the higher the degree, the more doors that open to you as far as salary and position, etc. The length of time that it takes to complete your nursing degree will depend upon which degree level you’re pursuing, as well as whether or not you’re a full-time student or a part-time student.
Nursing Educational Requirements in Florida
To become a nurse in Florida, you’ll want to first decide whether or not you want to pursue your CNA, your LPN, or your RN. Once you’ve decided which type of nurse that you’d like to be, you can then begin searching for your school of choice. When choosing a school to train for the field of nursing, you want to choose a school that has been approved by the Florida Board of Nursing.
State approval is important and ensures that your nursing program of choice is accredited and meets the requirements of Florida’s laws. Remember, you can always start out at one of the lower levels of nursing, begin working as a nurse or nursing aide and return to school later to further your education. This helps you get your feet wet and decide if this really is the right field for you.
Nursing Training Programs
Nursing training programs are typically available at vocational schools. Vocational school information will vary depending upon the state. However, to become a registered nurse, you must attend a college or university to pursue a degree. There are many online schools offering the training necessary to become a nurse, as well. Before getting started, if you’re unsure, then consider volunteering your time at a local hospital or nursing home to see if this is truly something that is right for you.
