Am I too old to go back to nursing school? It’s a common question among people who want to make a career change but fear they’ve missed their chance. Fortunately, there’s no set age or standard timeline for beginning your nursing journey. In this article, we’ll explain how you can make the transition to nursing at any age.

Is It Too Late to Become a Nurse?

No, it’s never too late to start or continue your nursing journey. Many people pursue nursing as a second career after gaining experience in another field. According to the , career changers can bring valuable skills to nursing, such as communication and problem-solving, that they may have acquired in other jobs.

It can feel scary or overwhelming to make a career change later in life, but remember that no one’s journey to nursing looks exactly the same. şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ alumnus Joe Carrillo had two other careers before a traumatic injury inspired him to go into nursing. While his path to nursing may have taken longer, it taught him that you can make a meaningful change at any point.

“It doesn’t matter what you want to do. You always have an opportunity to change that,” he said. “Invest that time and money in yourself. Don’t wait. Just do it.”

Why Go to Nursing School Later in Life?

Everyone has their own reasons for making a career change or continuing their nursing education. You may have personal experiences that have led you to this path, or you may want to use your skills to make a difference for others. If you started with a vocational nursing diploma or an associate degree, you may want to go back to nursing school to build on your clinical skills and knowledge.

These are some common reasons people have for going to nursing school when they’re older:

• Clarity about your goals: At this point in your life, you may have more clarity about what you want to do professionally. You’ve had time to think about how nursing fits into your long-term goals.
• Transferable skills: Nursing requires some of the same skills you may have gained in other jobs. Experience in fields like business, retail, or education may have helped you develop skills in communication, time management, critical thinking, and teamwork.
• Personal experiences: Some people may feel called to nursing after a personal experience with healthcare. If you’ve cared for a loved one or received care as a patient, you may feel inspired to help others in the same way.
• Confidence for a career change: As you get older, you may feel more confident in the choices you make. Going to nursing school may feel like a logical next step in building the career you want.

How to Go Back to Nursing School at Any Age

If you’re considering going to nursing school later in life, here are the steps you can take to make the transition.

1. Choose a Nursing Pathway

If you’re a first-time nursing student, you have several options for getting an education. You can complete a certificate or diploma program to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or a licensed vocational nurse (LVN), which takes about 1 year. If you want to become a registered nurse (RN), an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program offers a streamlined 2-year pathway into the profession.

Some career changers, however, prefer to enter the field with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). These degrees may make you eligible for more advanced positions, such as a clinical nurse manager or a nurse educator. While these pathways may take longer, some schools offer accelerated programs that can help you make the transition more quickly.

That was the case for şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€“Texas alumna Sarah H., who decided to switch careers to nursing while caring for her father after a cancer diagnosis. She enrolled in şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€™s Accelerated BSN program and finished in less than 4 years.

“Being a second-career-change student, I didn’t want to do another whole 4 years for another bachelor’s,” she said. “The fact that it was an accelerated program was like, ‘Okay, great, I don’t have to spend 4 years.’”

If you already have a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field, a direct-entry Master of Science in Nursing (DEMSN) program can help you transition into the field at a graduate level. A DEMSN program allows you to work toward RN licensure and a master’s degree at the same time.

For current nurses who want to advance their education, some programs allow you to build on your existing skills without starting over. şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ offers several continuing education programs for nurses, including an LVN/LPN to BSN program, an RN to BSN program, and an RN to MSN program.

2. Speak With an Admissions Advisor

Once you’ve chosen an academic pathway, research schools and programs in your area. Connect with an admissions advisor to get additional information. They can answer any questions you may have about the nursing program, admission requirements, student support services, and other details. An admissions advisor can also work with you to understand any prerequisite courses you may need to complete before applying.

3. Complete Prerequisite Courses

Depending on the program, you may need to complete some prerequisite courses. Review those requirements before you apply so you know what to expect.

For example, şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€™s DEMSN program requires incoming students to take these courses:

• Anatomy and Physiology I and II with lab
• Microbiology with lab
• Statistics or college-level mathematics
• Human Growth and Development (Lifespan)

You can complete those courses through şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ if you haven’t taken them previously. Other schools may have similar options available.

4. Apply to Nursing School

When you’re ready to apply, make sure you have all the documents and materials you need. These may include previous transcripts, entrance exam scores, or proof of an active nursing license. You may also need to complete a background check. Before submitting your application, check with your admissions advisor to make sure you’ve included everything you need.

Find Your Nursing Path at şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝

You can go to nursing school or continue your education at any age. Start by choosing a program and researching admission requirements. From there, you can make a plan to go to nursing school and work toward your career goals.

At şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝, we offer several pathways for those who want to start or continue their nursing education. Our programs for current nurses allow you to use your previous experience and education to gain new skills. For new nurses, we offer an ADN program in Florida, a BSN program with an Accelerated pace option, and a DEMSN program for non-nursing majors who want to make a career change.

If you’re ready to take the first step on your nursing journey, reach out to schedule an information session today!

The post Am I Too Old to Go Back to Nursing School? How to Start Your Nursing Journey appeared first on şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝.

If you’ve built a career in business but are now curious about nursing, you may wonder whether it’s possible to make the switch without starting at square one in your educational journey. While you may lack clinical experience, you likely have many skills that can carry into nursing, such as communication, time management, and adaptability.

In this article, we’ll show you how to make the transition from business to nursing and how your business background can help you take the next step.

Why Change Your Career to Nursing?

Making the switch from business to nursing may be more common than you think. Many people decide to make a career change to nursing, and they have different reasons for making this choice. Some of these reasons can include:

• Meaningful work: Some career changers go into nursing because they want to make a positive impact on people’s lives. They view nursing as a way to make a difference for patients and families.
• Flexible schedule options: If you’re coming from a demanding business role, you may be used to working long hours and answering emails on the weekends. In contrast, many nurses 3 days a week, giving them more days off to handle personal tasks and spend time with loved ones.
• Team-based role: Some business roles involve long hours of independent work at a desk or behind a computer. Nurses work as part of a team and collaborate with doctors, specialists, and other care team members throughout their shifts.
• Room for growth: Like business, nursing can offer room for growth. Some nurses choose to specialize in an area, like pediatrics or intensive care, while others continue their education to pursue advanced nursing roles.

What Are Some Transferable Skills From Business to Nursing?

At first, business and nursing may seem completely different. But if you think about it, you likely already have many skills that can transfer to the nursing field. These skills may include:

Leadership

If you’ve led teams or managed projects, you know how to use your leadership skills to build relationships and think critically. Nurses use leadership skills to advocate for their patients and make decisions, often in stressful situations.

Communication

In the business world, you may use communication skills to explain complex ideas, negotiate deals, or persuade clients. In healthcare, those same skills can be useful when speaking with patients and communicating with other team members

Problem Solving

As a business professional, you may apply your knowledge and expertise to solve complicated problems, like a team challenge or a last-minute deadline. Nursing requires the same problem-solving skills to assess situations and make decisions based on clinical judgment.

Adaptability

When a client changes their mind or your manager shifts course on a project, you may need to be flexible and willing to go in a different direction. The same holds true in nursing, where patient needs and priorities can change quickly.

Time Management

Between meetings, emails, and projects, you may already know how to manage your time efficiently to handle your responsibilities. Time management skills are just as valuable in nursing, especially during busy shifts when caring for many patients.

How to Transition From Business to Nursing

Nursing is a field that requires education, training, and experience. However, there are ways to make the transition, even if you’ve never worked in healthcare before. Here’s what to know about how to become a nurse with a business degree:

1. Choose a Nursing Program

Before you can transition into the nursing field, you’ll need to complete a program to learn nursing fundamentals and gain clinical experience. If you already have a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field, you may not want to spend time getting another undergraduate degree.

In this case, a Direct-Entry Master of Science in Nursing (DEMSN) might be an option to consider. A DEMSN program is designed for students who hold degrees in other fields. It allows you to work toward nursing licensure and a master’s degree simultaneously.

A DEMSN program can help you prepare to enter the nursing profession at a graduate level in an . At şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝, the DEMSN program for non-nursing graduates can be completed in approximately 2 years.

2. Apply for Admission

Once you decide on a program, you can apply for enrollment. Review the admission requirements thoroughly to make sure you meet them. Requirements typically include holding a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field and passing an entrance exam.

Programs may also require you to take certain courses, such as anatomy and physiology, before you can enroll. At şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝, DEMSN applicants must complete these courses, which they can take through the university:

• Anatomy and Physiology with lab
• Microbiology with lab
• Statistics
• Human Growth and Development

3. Complete the Program

A DEMSN program combines coursework, licensure preparation, and clinical experience. You’ll take courses that likely weren’t part of your business degree, such as pathophysiology, pharmacology, public health nursing, and disease management.

In the first part of the program, your coursework will align with NCLEX-RN preparation for registered nurses. You’ll practice your new skills in simulation labs and build your clinical judgment. Eventually, you’ll begin clinical rotations and provide patient care under supervision.

Later in the program, you’ll begin graduate-level coursework in nursing. Classes will center on advanced nursing concepts, including clinical judgment and evidence-based practices.

Tips for Making the Switch From Business to Nursing

Changing careers to an entirely new field can feel exciting and challenging at the same time. Follow these tips to make the switch:

• Confirm your decision. Before you invest time and money into a nursing education, make sure it’s what you want to do. If you can, shadow a nurse or volunteer at a facility to get a feel for what the job entails and whether it’s a good fit for you.
• Know what to expect. A nursing program takes time and commitment, especially when you’re brand new to healthcare. Find a way to balance coursework, clinical rotations, and labs that feels manageable to you.
• Lean on your transferable skills. Moving to a new field doesn’t mean leaving your current skills behind. Put your skills in adaptability, time management, and organization to good use as you prepare for a new career.
• Be patient. A career change to nursing won’t happen overnight. Be patient with yourself as you learn nursing concepts and develop clinical skills.

Explore a Career Change to Nursing at WCU-Miami

If you want to make the transition from business to nursing, it’s definitely possible. With a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field, you can pursue a DEMSN program that will help you prepare for licensure and a graduate-level nursing education.

At WCU-Miami, our Direct-Entry Master of Science in Nursing program is designed for career changers like you who want to move into nursing to make a difference. The program offers a flexible hybrid format that combines online coursework with on-campus labs and supervised clinical experience. It offers a pathway to move into nursing without starting over and can be completed in as few as 2 years!

Are you ready to make the switch from business to nursing? Reach out today to schedule an information session and learn more!

The post How to Transition From Business to Nursing: A Complete Guide appeared first on şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝.

Every state has specific requirements for becoming a licensed registered nurse (RN). If you want to work in the Sunshine State, you may wonder: Do you need a BSN to be an RN in Florida?

While you can become an RN with a bachelor’s degree, it’s not the only pathway to this career. An associate degree also makes you eligible for RN licensure in Florida, and it may be a better fit if you want to begin working more quickly.

In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about becoming an RN in Florida with tips for choosing the right program for your future goals.

What Is a BSN?

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a degree awarded to students who complete a undergraduate nursing program. BSN programs take around 4 years to complete and include nursing coursework and clinical training.

After earning a BSN, you can take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become a licensed RN.

What Is an ADN?

An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is another undergraduate degree for students training to become nurses. It’s a shorter program than a BSN and takes about 2 years.

Like a BSN, earning an ADN allows you to take the NCLEX for registered nurses. There aren’t different exams for ADN and BSN graduates, and both degrees can lead to the same RN license.

Can You Be an RN With an ADN in Florida?

Yes, you can become an RN in Florida if you hold an ADN. The state accepts ADN graduates for the NCLEX, which is the pathway for becoming licensed.

Applicants for the NCLEX must graduate from an accredited or approved program, according to the . There’s no requirement that an approved program must lead to a bachelor’s degree. You can complete either an ADN or a BSN program, as long as it’s accredited or approved.

How to Become an RN in Florida

If you’re looking to become an RN in Florida with no prior nursing experience, here are the steps you can take:

1. Apply to a Nursing Program

You can choose either an ADN or a BSN program to help you prepare for a nursing career. However, make sure the program you choose has met Florida’s requirements for RN licensure eligibility. If you’re unsure about a program’s accreditation status, ask an admissions advisor or check the nursing program database.

Besides accreditation and approvals, there are some other factors to consider as you choose a nursing program. These can include:

• Exam preparation: Passing the NCLEX is an essential part of becoming an RN. Look for programs that align the nursing curriculum with exam preparation.
• Clinical experience: Hands-on clinical training can help you put your nursing skills into practice. Research programs to learn about the type of training they offer and how many clinical hours the curriculum includes.
• Student support: Nursing school can be demanding. Having additional support, such as tutoring and academic counseling, can help you manage your courseload without feeling overwhelmed.
• Admission requirements: Nursing programs usually require a high school diploma or equivalent. Other admission requirements can vary, so make sure you understand what requirements you’ll need to meet before applying.

2. Complete the Program

Once you’re accepted into a program, you can begin working toward your degree. In your first year of nursing school, you can expect to take general education courses. You’ll also begin some core nursing classes, like anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, and nursing fundamentals.

As you progress in the program, the coursework will become heavily focused on teaching you the skills that registered nurses use on the job. Your curriculum will depend on the program you choose, but it may include courses like:

• Medical-surgical nursing
• Physical assessment
• Mental health nursing
• Older adult nursing
• Pathophysiology

Clinical training will make up the other part of your nursing education. More than likely, some classes will include lab components, where you practice the concepts you’re learning in realistic settings. Later in the program, you’ll begin clinical rotations. These take place at healthcare facilities, like hospitals and clinics, and allow you to get hands-on experience under direct supervision.

3. Pass the NCLEX-RN

After graduation, you can apply to take the This exam evaluates your nursing knowledge to determine whether you’re prepared to begin working as an RN. It includes questions in these major areas:

• Safe and effective care environment
• Health promotion and maintenance
• Psychosocial integrity
• Physiological integrity

The exam also includes case studies that ask you to apply your clinical knowledge to hypothetical situations. These questions assess how well you can analyze information, find solutions, and evaluate the outcome.

Once you pass the NCLEX-RN, you’ll receive your RN license from the state nursing board.

Should You Get an ADN or a BSN?

If both an ADN and a BSN can help you prepare to become an RN, which one should you choose? There’s no right or wrong choice, but you can consider these factors to help you decide:

• Timeline: How quickly do you want to begin working as an RN? An ADN program offers a faster pathway to nursing. Some programs can even be completed in under 2 years.
• Academic coursework: Both have similar core nursing classes. An ADN offers a more streamlined curriculum, while a BSN usually includes more general education requirements and additional classes in areas like nursing theory and ethics.
• Career goals: Consider what you want your nursing career to look like in the next 5 to 10 years. ADN-educated nurses can explore different specializations, such as pediatric or oncology nursing, though a BSN may be a requirement for advanced nursing positions.
• Future education: Earning an ADN or a BSN can set you up for future learning opportunities. Many ADN graduates go back to school later to earn a bachelor’s degree. With a BSN, you can also consider getting a graduate degree or doctorate in nursing.

Begin Your Nursing Journey at şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ in Miami

Both an ADN and a BSN can help you prepare to take the NCLEX and become a licensed RN in Florida. The best program for you depends on how quickly you want to begin working and your future goals.

At şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝, we’re ready to support you as you begin your nursing journey. Our Associate Degree in Nursing program in Miami offers a streamlined curriculum focused on NCLEX-RN preparation, with hands-on learning opportunities through industry-current simulation labs and clinical rotations. It’s a direct pathway into nursing and can be completed in as few as 20 months.

You don’t have to wait years to begin your nursing career. Reach out to request more information or schedule a tour today!

The post Do You Need a BSN to Be an RN in Florida? appeared first on şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝.

Key takeaways 

• Melanie H. earned her BSN and MSN through şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝, then returned to şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ as a faculty member—completing a full-circle journey from struggling student to trauma nurse to nursing educator. 
• şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€™s hands-on training with real clinical systems—including Omnicell and electronic charting software—and its culture of personalized faculty support gave Melanie the skills and confidence to thrive in demanding ER and trauma settings. 
• Now teaching the next generation of nurses, Melanie plans to pursue her doctorate through şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ so she can eventually lead in the MSN program—a testament to an institution she has trusted with her education twice and now her career. 

What drives a trauma nurse to become a nursing educator? For Melanie H., a two-time şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ graduate and current WCU-Texas faculty member, the answer traces back to a near-tragedy, a decade of frontline nursing, and a belief that the best teachers are the ones who’ve lived the work.

A Life-Changing Moment That Led to Nursing

Melanie wasn’t always headed toward healthcare. Before nursing, she was a project manager raising a family. That changed the day her 12-year-old son nearly drowned. Standing in the hospital, she watched nurses and staff work in seamless coordination to save his life. 

“That was my moment,” she said. “This is what I want to do. I want to make that difference.” 

Melanie enrolled at şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ and earned her BSN in 2017, transforming by her own account from a struggling student into a confident healthcare professional. She graduated into a program with a  

“I was a C student, not strong in math or science — and I became an A student,” she said. “Anyone can do it if your heart’s in it.” 

What Does a Trauma and ER Nursing Career Look Like? 

Melanie spent a decade gaining hands-on experience across some of the most demanding clinical settings in healthcare: 

• Emergency rooms 
• Trauma units 
• Dialysis centers 
• County hospitals 
• Correctional facilities 

Even during that time in the field, she felt pulled toward education. Classmates sought her out for tutoring. Professors asked her to lead final review sessions. 

“Even in nursing school I said, ‘I want to be a teacher,'” she recalled. 

Why She Returned to şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ as a Professor 

In March, Melanie officially joined the şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ faculty. For her, it’s a full-circle moment — sitting on the other side of the classroom at the same institution that prepared her for practice. 

“I’m loving it,” she said. “Just seeing their excitement when they learn something new and I get to play a part in giving them that knowledge.”

Her goal is straightforward: prepare students not just for the NCLEX, but for the realities of modern clinical environments. It’s an approach that has helped earn WCU-Texas a ranking of #1 Best College for Nursing in America out of 780 schools, and #1 in Texas out of 44, by Niche in 2026. 

How Does şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ Prepare Nurses for Real-World Healthcare? 

One area Melanie emphasizes is technology readiness. Today’s nursing students at şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ train on the same systems they’ll use on day one of their careers. 

“We didn’t have all this tech,” she said. “Now students train on real systems — Omnicell, charting software — they’re prepared. It gives them an edge.” 

This hands-on approach reflects what makes şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝’s program distinctive: 

• Training on real clinical software and medication management systems 
• Smaller class sizes that allow personalized instruction 
• Faculty who bring active clinical experience into the classroom 
• A culture of peer support over competition 

“You’re not just a number here — you are set up to succeed,” Melanie said.

Do WCU-Texas Professors Care About Students? 

For Melanie, the answer is personal — she experienced it as a student before she became the one doing the caring. 

“From Day One, it was personal. Professors care,” she said. 

That relationship between faculty and students is something she now actively works to replicate in her own classroom. She’s not there to get through a syllabus — she’s there because she believes in what her students are working toward. 

“I want to share what I gained and what I received when I was a student. I’m giving back what was given to me.” 

Gaining Real-World Experience in Trauma and ER Nursing

Melanie embraced the intensity of nursing, gaining hands-on experience in ERs, trauma units, dialysis centers, county hospitals, and correctional facilities. But even early on, she felt drawn to education.

“Even in nursing school I said, ‘I want to be a teacher,’” she recalled. “Students asked me to tutor. Professors had me run the final review.”

The Support That Made the Difference — and How She’s Paying It Forward 

Melanie knows firsthand what it feels like to struggle in a program and come out stronger because of the people around her. That support, she says, is what makes şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ worth it. 

“My journey wasn’t easy, but I succeeded because of West Coast. They support you from start to finish.” 

She’s also not done learning. Melanie plans to pursue her doctorate through şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ so she can eventually teach in the MSN program — a testament to an institution she’s trusted with her education twice, and now her career.

FAQs About Nursing Education at WCU-Texas 

How does şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ prepare students up for success?  
şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ emphasizes smaller class sizes, accessible faculty, and hands-on training with real clinical systems like Omnicell and electronic charting software. Students graduate familiar with the tools and environments they’ll encounter on the job. 

Where can WCU-Texas BSN graduates work after graduation?  
A BSN from şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ opens doors across a wide range of settings — hospitals, specialty units like trauma, ER, NICU, and dialysis, community health, and more. Melanie’s own career spanned ERs, trauma units, dialysis centers, county hospitals, and correctional facilities before she transitioned into nursing education. 

How do I know if nursing is right for me?  
Melanie’s story suggests that the answer doesn’t always come from certainty — it comes from paying attention to the moments that move you. She didn’t plan to be a nurse. It took watching a team save her son’s life for everything to click. “That was my moment,” she said. “This is what I want to do.” 

Can you become a nursing professor with an MSN?  
Yes. An MSN with a focus in nursing education qualifies graduates to teach in many pre-licensure nursing programs. Melanie earned her MSN in education through şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ before joining the faculty. Some institutions also require or prefer a doctorate for certain faculty roles. 

How long does it take to complete the BSN program at WCU-Texas? 
The BSN program at WCU-Texas can be completed in 39 months at the accelerated pace—a little over three years. The program is 120 credits across 8 semesters, with no waitlist, so students can start working toward their degree soon.  

What makes şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝’s nursing program worth the investment? WCU-Texas is ranked #1 Best College for Nursing in America, #1 in Texas, and #1 Best Value College in the Dallas-Fort Worth Area by Niche (2026). Students cite the combination of supportive faculty, a collaborative cohort culture, and preparation that extends beyond the NCLEX to the realities of modern clinical practice. For Melanie, the proof is in her own trajectory — from C student to trauma nurse to professor, all through şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝. 

Learn More About şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€™s Nursing Programs  

Find out more about şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€™s BSN programs today. 

The post Is WCU-Texas Worth It? One Trauma Nurse’s Journey From Student to Professor appeared first on şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝.

Parents have a lot to juggle as it is. Can you really add nursing school to the mix? While it may sound intimidating, it’s possible to balance nursing school and family responsibilities with an approach that includes planning, time management, and a little flexibility. In this article, we’ll offer helpful tips for managing nursing school with kids.

Is Nursing School Doable With Kids?

Yes, it can be doable to go to nursing school if you have kids. Balancing childcare, coursework, and clinicals may seem overwhelming, but it’s possible with careful planning and some flexibility.

If you’re a parent who feels nervous about starting nursing school, it may be helpful to know that many nursing students are parents. Data from the shows that about 1 in 5 undergraduate students are caring for at least 1 child or dependent.

At şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝, many students have found the support and assistance they need to balance parenthood and nursing school. Debbie Lee S., a mom who graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from WCU-Texas, credits şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€™s support system with helping her succeed. “I got the support that I needed here to fulfill my dreams and my children’s dreams,” she said.

Nursing school is a big decision, especially when you have kids to think about. Before you apply, look into a program’s learning format, clinical scheduling, and student support services. Many of şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€™s nursing programs offer options for students who need flexibility, such as different course paces and classes on evenings and weekends.

Tips for Parents on Balancing Nursing School With Kids

If you’re ready to enroll in nursing school with kids, here are some helpful tips for making it work:

Create a Study Schedule

As a parent, you understand the importance of routine. Before a new term begins, plan a study schedule you can reasonably stick with. You might use your lunch break to catch up on reading, or carve out some time to study in the morning before your kids wake up.

Some weeks, you may need to be more flexible with your schedule. But having a plan can make it easier to find chunks of time to prioritize your schoolwork.

Plan Ahead

Often, skills labs and clinical rotations create the biggest challenges for parents. At the beginning of each week, review your schedule and plan ahead. Block out your school and family commitments, and look for potential conflicts.

Consider what adjustments you can make to balance everything on your plate. For example, can you arrange for backup childcare on weekends when you have clinicals? By planning ahead, you can feel more prepared when your schedule gets busy.

Practice Time Management

Time management is an essential nursing skill, so start practicing it now. Prioritize your to-do list to make sure you’re tackling high-priority tasks first. If you only have an hour to study before picking your child up from school, review the material for tomorrow’s exam before starting on an assignment for next week.

Practicing time management can help at home, too. For example, finishing your homework before dinner can give you quality time to enjoy a family meal together or put your kids to bed.

Dina P., a mother who enrolled in the BSN program at WCU-Texas, advises other parents in nursing school to keep family and school time separate. “The time for studying is your time for studying, and your time for family is your time for family,” she said.

Ask for Help

When you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember this: you do not have to do everything on your own. Reach out when you need help. Tell your partner, relatives, friends, or neighbors what they can do to support you, especially during weeks when you have competing priorities.

At the same time, you can lean on the support system you have at school, including faculty, clinical instructors, and classmates. At şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝, students also have access to a range of support services, including online tutoring, counseling, and personalized guidance.

Share Goals With Your Kids

Your kids may have questions about why you’re going to nursing school. Have conversations with them about your goals and aspirations. Explain how nurses help people and make a difference in their communities. You may just inspire your little ones to consider a career in nursing when they grow up.

For Joseph C., a father and WCU-Miami nursing graduate, his son was a big part of the reason he pursued nursing in the first place. “I wanted him to see his dad do something that matters,” Joseph said. “Something that gives back.”

Make Time for Yourself

Between your family and your schoolwork, it may feel difficult — if not impossible — to take any time for yourself. But it’s essential to prioritize self-care, especially when you’re feeling stressed or exhausted. Take a short walk, read a chapter of a book just for fun, or treat yourself to ice cream after a big exam.

These small moments of self-care are necessary to stay happy, healthy, and motivated to keep working toward your goals.

Explore a Flexible Nursing Program at şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝

Balancing nursing school with kids is doable, but it requires planning, persistence, and hard work. Think about ways you can manage your time to handle all your school and family responsibilities. Ask for help from others when you need it, and don’t forget to make time for yourself, too.

If you’re looking for a flexible program that allows you to navigate nursing school with kids, şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ may be a good fit. Some nursing programs, like our Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), can be completed online with in-person clinical components. Other on-campus programs, such as the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, offer flexible options, like a Working Professional pace with classes spread out over more semesters.

Ready to get started? Reach out today to schedule an information session!

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Nursing is one of the most versatile careers in healthcare. With the right education, a nurse can move from bedside care to advanced practice, classroom instruction, executive leadership, or population health—often without ever leaving the profession.

This guide outlines the major nursing education levels in the United States, from the licensed practical or vocational nursing diploma all the way up to the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). It also outlines the most common next step for nurses at each stage, and how long completing that step typically takes for nursing students at şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ (şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝).

Quick Answer: How to Choose Your Next Nursing Step

The best next step depends on the credential you already hold. In brief:

• Licensed practical or vocational nurses (LPNs/LVNs) typically advance by becoming registered nurses (RNs) through a bridge program.
• RNs with a diploma or associate degree typically advance by earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
• BSN-prepared nurses typically advance by earning a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in a chosen specialty. This includes clinical specialties, such as family nurse practitioner (FNP), and non-clinical specialties, such as nursing leadership.
• MSN-prepared nurses typically advance by adding a post-master’s certificate in another specialty or by earning a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
• The DNP is the terminal nursing degree. However, DNP-prepared nurses can also add specialties to their skillsets with a post-master’s certificate program.

Nursing Pathways at a Glance

The table below shows the most common next step for nurses at every stage of their education, along with the şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ program option that fits, and the typical time to complete the program.

Note: Completion times reflect şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€™s fastest published program paces. Actual time to complete depends on the pace selected, transfer credit, and clinical placement.

Vocational Nurses (LPN/LVN)

Many nurses begin their careers as licensed vocational nurses (LVN), known as licensed practical nurses (LPN) in some states. LPNs and LVNs deliver foundational patient care under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians, including:

• Checking vital signs
• Changing bandages
• Helping patients bathe or dress
• Listening to patient concerns

What’s the Best Next Step for an LPN/LVN?

Most LPNs and LVNs advance by becoming registered nurses (RNs). At şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝, the LPN/LVN to BSN program lets you apply previous nursing coursework and licensure toward a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, qualifying you to sit for the NCLEX-RN. Students can complete the program in as few as 34 months

Program: LVN to BSN | LPN to BSN (Miami): 34 months

Registered Nurses (RN)

A registered nurse is a licensed clinician who has passed the NCLEX-RN and is qualified to deliver a broader scope of care than an LPN/LVN. In addition to the responsibilities of a vocational nurse, an RN can:

• Assess patient condition
• Develop and update care plans
• Assist with diagnostic tests and procedures
• Educate patients on their health conditions

What’s the Best Next Step for an RN?

RNs who hold a diploma or associate degree typically advance by earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The reports that 69.8% of employers express a strong preference for BSN-prepared nurses, and 25% of hospitals and healthcare settings require new hires to hold a bachelor’s degree. şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ offers two online pathways for working RNs:

RN to BSN (online): Earn your bachelor’s in as few as eight months at the Accelerated Plus pace, 12 months at the Accelerated pace, or 20 months at the Working Professional pace. Explore the RN to BSN program.

RN to MSN (online): Move directly from undergraduate to graduate coursework in 16 to 44 months, depending on the specialty track and pace you choose to pursue. Note that some employers may require nurses with an MSN to have also earned a BSN—make sure you understand the requirements of your current workplace (or workplaces that interest you) before you commit to a program. Explore the RN to MSN program.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing is a four-year undergraduate degree that prepares students to practice as registered nurses. At the turn of the century, it was more common for RNs to begin their careers with an associate degree or a nursing diploma. Today, the BSN is the standard. found that 73% of RNs hold at least a BSN degree.

şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€™s BSN curriculum combines coursework in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and patient care with supervised clinical hours where students work directly with patients. The Accelerated pace can be completed in as few as 39 months.

What’s the Best Next Step After a BSN?

BSN-prepared nurses typically pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in a chosen specialty. At şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝, BSN-prepared nurses can complete an online MSN in as few as eight to 20 months, depending on the track and pace selected.

Program: Master of Science in Nursing (online)

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

A Master of Science in Nursing is a graduate nursing degree that prepares nurses for advanced practice, teaching, and leadership roles. At şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝, we offer six specialty tracks for our online MSN program:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner—as few as 20 months
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner—as few as 20 months
• Family Nurse Practitioner—as few as 20 months
• Nurse Educator—as few as 8 months
• Nurse Leader—as few as 8 months
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner—as few as 20 months

Our Nurse Educator and Nurse Leader programs can be completed in as few as 8 months with our Accelerated Plus pacing. All other programs can be completed with our Accelerated pacing or our Working Professional pacing—choose a study schedule that aligns with your goals.

What’s the Best Next Step After an MSN?

MSN-prepared nurses who want to add a new clinical or leadership specialty can complete a post-master’s certificate. Those who want to take on executive leadership or shape healthcare policy can pursue the Doctor of Nursing Practice, the terminal nursing degree.

Post-Master’s Nursing Certificates

A post-master’s certificate allows an MSN-prepared nurse to add a new specialty without completing a second master’s degree. The coursework is designed to prepare students to sit for the relevant board certification exam. şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ offers the same six specialty tracks online as the MSN, with completion times of eight to 20 months depending on the track.

Program: Post-Master’s Certificates (online)

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

The Doctor of Nursing Practice is the terminal practice degree in nursing. The curriculum prepares nurses for executive leadership roles and includes coursework in strategic leadership, healthcare informatics, and policy development.

şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€™s online DNP is designed for MSN-prepared nurses, and can be completed in as few as 20 months at the Accelerated pace.

Program: Doctor of Nursing Practice (online)

Choosing the Path That Fits

Every nurse brings different goals, schedules, and life situations to their education. There is no single right pathway, but understanding the next step at each level makes it easier to plan ahead.

To talk through your options with a şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ advisor, request information at the bottom of the page or schedule a campus tour or information session. We can’t wait to help you make your next move in nursing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the highest nursing degree?

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is the highest practice-focused nursing degree. It prepares nurses for executive leadership, advanced clinical practice, and influence over healthcare policy. şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€™s online DNP can be completed in as few as 20 months at the Accelerated pace.

How long does it take to go from LPN/LVN to RN?

At şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝, the LPN/LVN to BSN program takes 34 months. Graduates earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN, the licensing exam required to practice as a registered nurse.

Do you need a BSN to become a registered nurse?

No. A BSN is not legally required to become an RN—a diploma or associate degree in nursing also qualifies you to sit for the NCLEX-RN. However, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing reports that , while 25% now require new hires to hold a bachelor’s degree.

Can you earn an MSN without a BSN?

Yes. Registered nurses who hold a diploma or associate degree can enroll in şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€™s online RN to MSN program, which combines bachelor’s-level and master’s-level coursework into a single pathway. Total time ranges from 16 to 44 months, depending on the specialty track and pace.

What’s the difference between an MSN specialty track and a post-master’s certificate?

An MSN specialty track is part of earning a master’s degree for the first time. A post-master’s certificate is designed for nurses who already hold an MSN and want to add a new specialty without earning a second master’s.

Both prepare students to sit for the relevant board certification exam, and şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ offers the same six specialty tracks in either format.

Which şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ nursing program can I complete the fastest?

The Accelerated Plus pace of the online RN to BSN program is şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€™s fastest nursing pathway, with degree completion in as few as eight months. The Nurse Educator and Nurse Leader tracks of both the MSN and Post-Master’s Certificate programs can also be completed in as few as eight months at the Accelerated pace.

Practice experience is required in order to graduate from the RN to BSN, RN to MSN, MSN, DNP degree, and Post-Master’s Certificate programs.

The post Different Nursing Paths for Nurses Who Never Stop Learning! appeared first on şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝.

Thinking about switching careers into nursing? It’s a bigger decision than most—and one that comes with more options than you might expect. If you hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and you’ve been drawn to the profession, you probably know you have lots of options, including associate degree programs or second bachelor’s degree programs in nursing. However, there’s one option not many career-changers know about: the Direct-Entry Master of Science in Nursing (DEMSN) at şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€“Miami.

The şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€“Miami DEMSN is a full-time, blended program that merges pre-licensure nursing education with graduate-level coursework—designed to be completed in as few as two years. Graduates enter the profession with a master’s degree already in hand, which can open doors to advanced practice pathways and help you stand out in a competitive job market from day one.

Here’s what you can expect from the şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€“Miami Direct-Entry MSN program—from admission through graduation and beyond.

Who Is the Direct-Entry MSN Program For?

The DEMSN is built for career changers—specifically, those who hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field and are ready to pursue a new future in healthcare. No prior clinical experience is required. The program provides a structured academic pathway to initial nursing licensure for entry-level nursing practice with the additional benefit of generalist graduate education in nursing.

This program could be the right fit if:

• You feel called to nursing
• You know you want to pursue graduate-level education or an advanced practice pathway
• You don’t want to start over in a bachelor’s degree program

Admission Requirements for the DEMSN

The DEMSN is for graduates of a non-nursing bachelor’s degree program. The admission criteria include:

• A bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field from an accredited U.S. institution (or international equivalent)
• A composite score of 76 or higher on the Health Education Systems Incorporated (HESI) exam, taken no more than three years before you apply
• A grade of C/2.0 or better in the following prerequisite courses, taken no more than five years before you apply:
  • Anatomy and Physiology I and II (with lab)
  • Microbiology (with lab)
  • Statistics or another college-level mathematics course
  • Human Growth and Development or college-level general psychology course

If you haven’t taken the prerequisite courses (or if you took them more than five years ago), you can take them at şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ before you start your DEMSN courses.

How the Blended Format Works: Online, On-Campus, and Clinical

A blended format is one in which learning happens across multiple settings. In the case of şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€“Miami’s DEMSN program, this means a combination of online coursework, on-campus labs and simulations, and supervised clinical experiences.

The blended format gives you meaningful flexibility without sacrificing the hands-on rigor nursing education demands. Here’s how each component works.

Online coursework

Approximately 25% of the program—one course per 10-week term—is delivered fully online and asynchronously. That means there are no set log-in times for those courses. This gives you the flexibility to manage coursework around family or other commitments without sacrificing the rigor of a full-time program.

These online courses cover subjects such as leadership, nutrition, research, health policy, ethics, informatics, health promotion, and elective topics. Coursework is self-paced within each week, typically including a discussion post and a weekly assignment, so you can engage with the material on a schedule that works for you.

On-campus labs and simulations

Labs and simulations are where you’ll practice your patient care skills. şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€“Miami’s sim labs feature high-fidelity patient manikins and other real-world healthcare equipment. You’ll work through guided scenarios that can range from routine checkups to childbirth, patient “crashes”, and more.

Through case-based learning, clinical reasoning discussions, and structured debriefs, sim lab sessions help you develop your skills in communication and care (along with your confidence) before you move on to clinicals.

Supervised clinical practicums

Throughout your program, you’ll help care for real patients in clinical practicums. These experiences take place in hospitals and other healthcare facilities under the supervision of clinical instructors and experienced nurses. Clinical rotations are a core part of your program. They help you gain exposure to different types of patients and healthcare settings and apply what you’ve learned in class and in the sim lab to real-world situations.

Clinical practicums also offer you the opportunity to understand how interprofessional collaboration works—that is, how nurses, physicians, and other healthcare professionals coordinate their efforts to support patients.

Built-In NCLEX-RNÂŽ Prep: How şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€“Miami Prepares You for Licensure

You’ll need to pass a national board exam, the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a licensed registered nurse. Many nursing schools save NCLEX prep for the end of their programs. At şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€“Miami, we take a different approach. We weave NCLEX prep throughout the entire curriculum. Resources include:

• Structured review integrated into your nursing coursework
• Practice assessments and predictor exams
• Access to ATIÂŽ and V-ATIÂŽ practice resources

Faculty also actively build the clinical reasoning skills the NCLEX tests—so by the time you reach exam day, you’re not just prepared, you’re confident.

How Career Services Can Support Your Job Search

Support doesn’t stop at graduation. şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€™s dedicated Career Services team is available to you throughout your studies, helping you build the professional tools you’ll need to obtain your first nursing role. Resources include:

• Resume reviews
• Mock interviews
• Job search strategies
• Networking opportunities

You don’t have to wait until graduation—Career Services is available to you from day one of your program.

What Comes After Graduation?

Earning your DEMSN is a launchpad, not just a finish line. Because you graduate with a master’s degree already in hand, you’re well-positioned to pursue advanced specialization—and şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ offers multiple pathways to get you there.

For graduates who want to specialize, şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ offers post-master’s certificate programs in the following areas:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
• Nurse Educator
• Nurse Leader

These programs include online coursework plus additional in-person clinical or internship experience.

If you’re interested in pursuing the highest level of nursing education, şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ also offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program.

Take the Next Step

If you’re ready to turn your career-change ambitions into a nursing career, the şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€“Miami DEMSN program is designed for exactly that. Reach out to our admissions team or request an information session to learn more—and take the first step toward a future in nursing.

The post From Career Changer to RN: What to Expect in şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€“Miami’s Direct-Entry MSN Program appeared first on şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝.

When you first stepped into a nursing leadership role, a doctoral degree may not have been part of your long-term plan. But if you’ve started thinking about how you can influence strategy or policy decisions at a broader level, a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) may be the right next step for your career.

In this article, we’ll explain the importance of leadership in nursing and why a DNP in nursing leadership may be worth it for you.

What’s the Importance of Leadership in Nursing?

In nursing, because it can directly affect the delivery of care. Strong nursing leadership can help improve patient outcomes and give nurses the support they need to do their jobs.

If you’re already working as a nurse leader, you’ve probably seen that good leadership can also have a larger impact. It can influence how care gets delivered across an organization. Leadership in nursing matters at a team level, but it also needs to be present in the executive meetings and boardrooms where policy development and strategic priorities get decided.

4 Reasons to Get a DNP in Nursing Leadership

A Doctor of Nursing Practice is a terminal nursing degree that focuses on evidence-based practices, quality improvement, and systems leadership, according to the .

If you’re considering a move into executive leadership, here are a few reasons to consider getting a DNP:

Influence Policy Decisions

Some nurse leaders pursue a DNP in leadership because they want to have more influence over policy decisions at a system-wide level. Executive DNP programs often include coursework related to healthcare policy development and implementation. Earning a doctoral degree can be helpful if you want to have a voice in big-picture decisions affecting multiple departments or entire systems.

Lead Change in Healthcare Systems

A DNP in executive leadership may appeal to you if you want to contribute to healthcare systems beyond clinical day-to-day operations. For example, you may want to implement quality initiatives, create new processes, or contribute to strategic decisions about the delivery of care.

Getting a doctorate-level education can help you learn how complex healthcare systems operate, so you can effectively advocate for changes that affect patient care on a wider scale.

Build on Your Leadership Skills

As a nurse leader, you’re already using your leadership skills, such as strategic planning and quality improvement, to make a difference. A DNP in executive leadership can help you build on those skills, so you can focus on making policy-related or organizational change.

In a DNP program, you’ll take advanced coursework designed to help you expand on your leadership skills. şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€™s DNP program curriculum includes these classes, among others:

• Organizational and systems leadership
• Policy development and implementation
• Informatics and healthcare technologies
• Advanced executive leadership

Part of the program also includes a DNP research project, which you implement at a clinical site in your area. This practical learning experience can help you better understand how to apply your skills across the healthcare system.

Grow Your Career

If you want to grow into leadership roles outside the nursing department, a DNP may be the best fit for your goals. It can help prepare you for the demands of executive leadership roles in healthcare settings, such as these:

• Director of nursing
• Vice president of nursing
• Chief nursing officer
• Clinical director
• Healthcare administrator
• Nurse executive

These roles may feel like a natural next step after working in nurse leadership for a while. After advancing in his career to become a clinical manager, şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ alumnus Justin C. planned to earn his Doctor of Nursing Practice, with the goal of becoming a director in healthcare.

“I want to become a chief nursing officer or chief nursing executive,” Justin said. “A CNO is the highest position in an acute care setting for nursing.”

Is a DNP in Executive Leadership the Right Fit for Your Goals?

If you’ve already invested years in your nursing education and training, you may be asking yourself if a DNP is worth it. While it’s not the right fit for everyone, it may be a good option if you want your leadership strengths to extend to organizational strategy, systems improvement, or policy development.

Ask yourself these questions as you consider a DNP program:

• Do you want to grow your career beyond department-level leadership?
• Do you want to have a larger role in strategic planning and decision-making?
• Are you looking to build on the leadership skills you already use as a nurse leader?
• Do you want to have a broader impact on policy or quality improvement?
• Is now the right time to go back to school while balancing work and other priorities?

Keep in mind that some DNP programs, like the one at şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝, include online coursework and flexible learning formats. Depending on the program, you may be able to continue working while you earn your DNP at the same time.

Advance Your Nursing Education at şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝

Executive nursing leadership has the power to improve patient care, support nursing staff, and guide broader healthcare policy. For these reasons and more, many nurse leaders choose to pursue a DNP in executive nursing leadership to keep growing in their careers.

The Doctor of Nursing Practice program at şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ can help prepare you for this next step. In the DNP – Executive Leadership track, you’ll receive training on how to use strategic leadership effectively in healthcare systems. With a flexible online format, you can earn your DNP in approximately 20 months at an Accelerated pace.

Are you ready to explore the next step toward a role in executive nurse leadership? Reach out today to schedule an information session!

The post Should You Get a DNP in Nursing Leadership? What to Know About This Path appeared first on şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝.

You’ve done the research. You’ve applied and been accepted. You’re ready to start nursing school. Then you find out there’s a waitlist.

For thousands of aspiring nurses across the country, this is a familiar and frustrating reality. Nursing program waitlists have become one of the biggest barriers between prospective students and their healthcare careers, even as hospitals and clinics report ongoing staffing shortages.

If you’re considering nursing school—especially in Florida—understanding the waitlist landscape can help you make a more informed decision about where and when to apply. Here’s what you should know.

What Are Nursing School Waitlists?

A nursing school waitlist is exactly what it sounds like: a queue of qualified applicants who have been conditionally accepted, but who cannot begin classes because the program doesn’t have enough seats available. Unlike a rejection, being waitlisted doesn’t mean you haven’t met the academic requirements. It just means the program doesn’t have space for you right now.

Some programs maintain formal waitlists, where your application is kept on file and put in an admissions queue. Others require you to reapply entirely for the next admission cycle. Either way, the result is the same: your education is on hold. Sometimes students are waitlisted for a semester, but sometimes waitlists can be years long.

How Waitlists Can Affect Your Nursing Career Path

Being placed on a waitlist can have real consequences that go well beyond a delayed start date. The financial impact is often the most immediate concern. Students who planned to leave a job or reduce their hours to pursue their nursing degree may find themselves in limbo, unable to commit fully to work or school. Prerequisite courses can expire while waiting, requiring students to retake classes at additional cost.

Then there’s the emotional toll. According to , the nursing faculty shortage—a primary driver of limited program capacity—directly affects the student experience, creating uncertainty and stress for applicants who have already invested time and money in their nursing education.

Every semester spent waiting is a semester not spent developing clinical skills, building professional relationships, or working toward licensure. For career-changers and working adults, that time can feel especially costly—and it may mean the difference between starting a new chapter and staying stuck in a role that no longer fits.

The National Waitlist Situation: Scope and Causes

The waitlist problem is not unique to any single school or state—it’s a national issue with deep structural roots. According to the , nursing schools turned away 65,766 qualified applications in 2024 due to a lack of class seats. The gap between applicant demand and available seats has been widening for years.

Several factors contribute to this bottleneck:

Faculty shortages. This is the single biggest constraint. Nursing programs can only admit as many students as their faculty can teach and supervise. The AACN reports nearly at nursing schools nationwide. A key driver is the salary gap between educators and advance practice nurses. Many experienced nurses who could teach choose to stay in practice, where the pay is significantly higher.

Limited clinical placements. Nursing education requires extensive clinical rotations, and those rotations depend on partnerships with hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. As , these facilities have limited capacity to train students, and preceptors—the clinical professionals who supervise student nurses—are in short supply. State nursing boards often set strict student-to-preceptor ratios that further constrain available slots.

Infrastructure and budget limitations. Expanding a nursing program isn’t as simple as adding desks to a lecture hall. Programs require simulation labs, specialized equipment, and qualified staff to run them. Many schools, particularly public institutions, operate under tight budget constraints that make expansion difficult. As , even well-funded programs face challenges scaling up to meet demand.

The result is a paradox: the healthcare industry is short-staffed and actively seeking nurses, yet tens of thousands of motivated, qualified students can’t get into programs to begin their training.

What the Waitlist Situation Looks Like in Florida

Florida faces its own version of this challenge. According to the , the state’s hospitals reported a registered nurse vacancy rate of 9.6% as of 2025—down from 13% in 2022, but still representing more than 16,000 unfilled nursing positions statewide. FHA’s most recent workforce projections indicate Florida could face a shortage of (PDF, p. 22)

Many of the same national factors—faculty shortages, limited clinical sites, and budget constraints—affect Florida nursing programs, too. Several schools in the Miami and Broward County area typically run competitive admissions cycles, meaning applicants who aren’t selected must reapply for the next cycle or try to gain admission as transfer students. This means students may wait multiple semesters (and have to make multiple applications) before earning a spot.

How WCU-Miami Helps You Avoid the Waitlist

şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝â€™s Miami campus takes a different approach. WCU-Miami’s nursing programs operate with no waitlist, so qualified students can start their education without sitting in a queue for months or years.

That commitment to access is backed by carefully designed courses with exceptional training facilities. WCU-Miami features SSH-accredited simulation labs equipped with high-fidelity manikins—specialized healthcare education tools that realistically model a variety of medical scenarios. These labs give students the chance to develop hands-on clinical skills and confidence before entering a hospital setting.

WCU-Miami also offers multiple program paces for our Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, so you can find a schedule that fits your life. Whether you’re looking at an accelerated timeline or need a schedule that works around existing commitments, the goal is the same: helping you move forward on your terms, not on a waitlist’s timeline.

Classes are starting soon. If you’re ready to take the next step, request information about WCU-Miami’s nursing programs to learn more about how to get started.

Additional Reading:

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Each year in May, National Nurses Week celebrates the dedication and impact nurses bring to the healthcare field. This year’s theme, , highlights the nursing strengths and qualities that guide the profession. At şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝, we see those characteristics reflected every day in our nursing students, faculty, and alumni.

Happy National Nurses Week to the şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ nursing community and to all the nurses who use their strengths to make a difference!

What Are Some Qualities of a Good Nurse?

A good nurse is someone who cares deeply about providing quality patient care. Often, that level of care shows up through these nurse characteristics:

• Compassion: Compassionate nurses strive to understand patients’ concerns. They may go the extra mile to provide emotional support to patients and their loved ones, especially during stressful situations.
• Communication: During their shifts, nurses must use communication to share information with patients, doctors, and other healthcare team members.
• Respect: Good nurses show respect to every patient, family member, and co-worker. They treat everyone with dignity.
• Adaptability: Things move quickly in healthcare, and nurses must be able to adapt as needed. This may involve responding to new information or handling unexpected situations with flexibility.
• Problem solving: Nurses often need to think quickly and make decisions in real time. Problem-solving skills can help them use their clinical judgment to determine the best path forward.
• Time management: No nursing shift looks the same. Nurses use time management to stay organized while caring for multiple patients and handling various responsibilities.

Real Stories of Nursing Strengths from şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ Alumni

Nursing requires a range of strengths. Every day, şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ students, alumni, and faculty demonstrate how qualities like compassion and critical thinking can make a meaningful difference. Here are just a few of their stories.

Quick Thinking in a Critical Moment

When WCU-Los Angeles alumna Sophia S. attended the Astroworld music festival in 2021, she couldn’t have predicted what would happen. An unexpected crowd surge became a deadly tragedy, and Sophia went from concert-goer to triage nurse in a matter of minutes.

“I started triaging people in my head,” she said. “You have to decide who needs help first, and who might still have a chance. That’s exactly what we were taught to do.”

Relying on her clinical instincts and quick thinking, Sophia started performing CPR on an injured man and stayed with him until medical teams arrived on scene. Her actions helped save the man’s life, proving that a nurse’s strengths can make all the difference in emergency situations.

Read more of Sophia’s story: ‘Let’s Go Help People:’ How a şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ Nurse Saved a Life at Astroworld

Compassion at the Heart of Care

For one recent WCU-Ontario graduate, the path to nursing grew out of years spent serving others. Before earning his Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Greg D. worked at Goodwill, where he supported people with special needs. The idea of caring for others stuck with him until he eventually decided to pursue nursing as a career.

While the accelerated pace of his program required Greg to work hard and make some short-term sacrifices, he never wavered on his decision. He believes the best part of nursing is the opportunity to connect with patients.

“Being of service to others is the best human experience, in my opinion,” he said. “When you actually do good work and heal people… they show their gratitude, and you understand what they’re going through.”

Read more of Greg’s story: Recent şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ BSN Graduate Bring History of Goodwill to ICU as Nurse

Adapting to a New Path in Nursing

Juleen F. didn’t plan to become a nurse. While working as a medical laboratory technician, she began doing bone marrow biopsies and found herself drawn to patient interaction. The unexpected experience caused her to change course and enroll in WCU-Miami’s nursing program.

Nursing school required Juleen, a mother of three, to balance her studies and clinical rotations with a full-time job and family responsibilities. Through it all, Juleen’s adaptability and can-do attitude kept her working toward her goals.

“If you really want something, you’ll do it,” she said. “You still have to juggle that house life, school life, and work life. But it can be done.”

Read more of Juleen’s story: WCU-Miami BSN Graduate’s Passion Took Her From Lab Coat to Scrubs

Respect and Advocacy in Postpartum Care

After leaving a career in property management, Maria T. chose to pursue her lifelong dream of working in healthcare. The WCU-Miami alumna was motivated to advocate for women, especially women of color who may feel dismissed in healthcare settings.

“I’m the middle one of three sisters, I have two nieces, and I know there’s a lot of disparities when a healthcare provider doesn’t listen to you as a woman,” Maria said.

Now specializing in postpartum nursing, Maria brings that same passion to caring for mothers and babies after childbirth. In her role, she uses her nursing strengths to support patients during major life moments and make sure they receive the dignity and respect they deserve.

Read more of Maria’s story: From Property Management to Postpartum: How WCU-Miami BSN Grad Found Her Perfect Job in Mother-Baby Nursing

Celebrating Nursing Strengths for National Nurses Week

National Nurses Week is an opportunity to recognize the strengths that nurses bring to their roles each and every day. During this year’s celebration, we’re extending a heartfelt thank you to the şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ nursing students, alumni, and faculty for all they do and the difference they make. We appreciate you!

If you feel called to use your strengths in the nursing profession, şěĚŇ´ŤĂ˝ offers nursing degree programs from associate through doctoral levels. Our programs help nursing students build on their strengths through flexible learning formats, industry-current simulation labs, and guidance from experienced faculty. Reach out today to request more information!

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