How to Obtain a Registered Nurse Certification
A registered nurse provides exceptional care for patients, works directly with doctors and helps encourage healthy living. This challenging profession requires proper certification, training and licensing. The hard work will pay off because being a registered nurse comes with wonderful benefits and job opportunities.
- Decide which nursing certification program is best for you. The certification program options are Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) and diploma of nursing. The difference in each program is the time involved to finish. A bachelor’s of science in nursing certification allows room for a specialty such as labor and delivery, oncology and surgery. They may also get promoted faster. All three nursing certification programs will have the same result of receiving a degree as a registered nurse.
- Apply for accredited nursing school(s). Provide the schools with high school transcripts and any other information they require. Include any work or volunteer-related experience on the application for nursing school.
- Apply for scholarships and financial aid to help pay for the cost of school, uniforms, books and other related fees. Visit the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) website to apply for financial aid. Do research online for available nursing scholarships.
- Enroll in the required classes. Finish all the required coursework and clinical training. Aim to receive a grade of a “B” or better in your classes. A clinical is required hands-on training working with a registered nurse. Complete the required amount of classes and clinical training to obtain a degree.
- Take the state exam. Pass the state exam in order to receive a registered nurse license.