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 ���Ҵ�ý (���Ҵ�ý).

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 ���Ҵ�ý program option that fits, and the typical time to complete the program.

Note: Completion times reflect �°䱫’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 ���Ҵ�ý, 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. ���Ҵ�ý 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.

�°䱫’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 ���Ҵ�ý, 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 ���Ҵ�ý, 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. ���Ҵ�ý 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.

�°䱫’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 ���Ҵ�ý 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. �°䱫’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 ���Ҵ�ý, 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 �°䱫’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 ���Ҵ�ý offers the same six specialty tracks in either format.

Which ���Ҵ�ý nursing program can I complete the fastest?

The Accelerated Plus pace of the online RN to BSN program is �°䱫’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.

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Mental health is a vital aspect of overall well-being, yet access to quality mental healthcare remains a challenge for many individuals. The (HRSA) reports a growing shortage of mental health professionals, making the role of a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) more critical than ever.

���Ҵ�ý Online offers several path options to help students become a PMHNP. A traditional MSN program like our PMHNP MSN track requires a BSN. In contrast, an RN to MSN program, such as our RN to MSN PMHNP track, is tailored for RNs with unencumbered licensure, allowing them to earn their MSN degree more quickly than if they had to complete a BSN program beforehand. These RN to MSN programs also strategically integrate undergraduate coursework — sometimes called “bridge courses” — to help RNs transition smoothly into graduate coursework. For advanced practice nurses looking to expand their expertise, another option is our PMHNP Post-Master’s Certificate program.

The Rewarding Nature of a PMHNP Career

A career as a PMHNP offers the opportunity to transform lives by providing compassionate and evidence-based mental healthcare. Many patients experience ongoing mental health challenges, and as a PMHNP, you can be a trusted provider throughout their recovery journey.

Why PMHNPs Find Their Work Fulfilling:

• Helping patients through vulnerable moments – Many individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, or mood disorders rely on PMHNPs for support and treatment.
• Building long-term patient relationships – Unlike many healthcare roles focused on short-term care, mental health treatment often involves ongoing interactions, allowing you to witness significant progress.
• Contributing to mental health advocacy – The (SAMHSA) emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness, and as a PMHNP, you play a direct role in reducing stigma and improving access to care.

�°䱫’s PMHNP programs and tracks prepare nurses to take on these rewarding responsibilities through a combination of online coursework, hands-on intensives, and clinical experience.

Accreditation and Certification Readiness

Accreditation is a measure that a PMHNP program meets rigorous academic and professional standards. All of �°䱫’s PMHNP programs are accredited by the (CCNE), an accrediting body that promotes quality nursing education in the United States.

PMHNP Certification and Licensure

Upon completing �°䱫’s PMHNP Post-Master’s Certificate or PMHNP MSN, graduates are eligible to sit for the (ANCC) PMHNP certification exam. Passing this exam is a key step toward licensure, as required by state boards governed by the (NCSBN).

The (ACEN) also plays a role in maintaining quality standards for nursing education, ensuring that programs like �°䱫’s PMHNP certificate adequately prepare students for advanced practice roles.

PMHNP Career Benefits and ���Ҵ�ý Program Highlights

Steps to Become a PMHNP

If you’re ready to take the next step toward becoming a PMHNP, here’s what the process looks like:

1. Select one of the PMHNP programs available at ���Ҵ�ý – Options include our PMHNP MSN track, RN to MSN PMHNP track, and PMHNP Post-Master’s Certificate program.
2. Gain clinical experience – �°䱫’s dedicated Clinical Placement Team helps students find preceptors and sites for their practicum experience.
3. Obtain degree or certification and gain licensure – Graduates are eligible to sit for the ANCC PMHNP certification exam, a key step toward licensure and practice.

With �°䱫’s flexible online format and personalized student support, you can advance your career while maintaining your current professional responsibilities.

If you’re passionate about mental health, patient advocacy, and making a lasting impact, �°䱫’s PMHNP programs and track can help you take your nursing career to the next level.

The post Why Pursue a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Education at ���Ҵ�ý? appeared first on ���Ҵ�ý.

If you’ve been thinking about starting your nursing journey — or continuing it — summer is the perfect season to make that leap. Whether you’re fresh out of high school or a working nurse looking to expand your credentials, enrolling in a summer nursing program can help you move forward faster without waiting until fall to begin.

With flexible schedules and online learning options designed for working students, a summer start lets you keep your momentum going while staying focused on what matters.

Plus, if you’re not sure where to begin, you don’t have to worry. ���Ҵ�ý offers nursing programs accredited by the that are built to support your experience level, career goals, and busy schedule.

Why Should You Enroll in a Summer Nursing Program?

Summer might not be the traditional time to start school, but that’s exactly what makes it such a smart move. While others are taking a break, you could be gaining clinical experience, earning credentials, and getting one step closer to your vocation — all without waiting for the next term.

Here’s why starting in the summer can work in your favor:

• Get ahead faster: Summer starts mean accelerated learning. Rather than getting stuck on a nursing waitlist, you can start working toward your degree right away.
• More flexible scheduling: Some programs offer flexible pacing so you can begin when it works best for you.
• Online convenience: If you’re going the online route, summer can be even more ideal. With 24/7 access to lectures, coursework, and faculty support, your learning fits around you.
• Make an impact sooner: The earlier you begin, the sooner you can complete clinicals and enter the workforce. Whether you’re aiming for your first nursing job or planning for career advancement, getting started now puts you closer to where you want to be.

What Is the Most Common Summer Nursing Program for High Schoolers?

If you’re a high school senior or recent graduate looking to break into the world of nursing, summer is a great time to explore hands-on learning opportunities designed just for you. In fact, you might even come across nursing programs for high school students, like camps or college immersion experiences that give you a preview of what’s ahead.

These experiences can be a great way to confirm your interest in nursing before committing to a degree program. Once you’re ready to take that next step into college-level training, one degree option tends to take the lead:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

If you’re planning a career in nursing long-term or want to eventually move into advanced practice or leadership roles, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing could be a great fit. You’ll receive a broader education than an Associate Degree in Nursing, with courses that cover everything from public health to nursing research.

Starting your BSN in the summer lets you jump into core nursing classes early, which could help you graduate sooner. What’s more, if your schedule is already packed, some campuses offer flexible options, such as a Working Professional pace or an Evening & Weekend format, so you can move forward without having to make any compromises.

What Are the Most Common Summer Nursing Programs for RNs?

Already have your RN license but looking to move up? Summer nursing programs aren’t just for first-time students. They can be a great way to level up your credentials without putting your career on pause. You can generally start with a BSN or move straight into a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program.

RN to BSN

If you’ve earned your ADN and want to continue growing in your career, an RN to BSN program gives you the opportunity to build on what you already know. You’ll explore courses in leadership, community health, and evidence-based practice, all while working toward your bachelor’s degree.

With many schools like ���Ҵ�ý offering 100% online coursework and flexible pacing, you can balance your education with your current responsibilities and complete your degree on a schedule that works for you.

RN to MSN

An RN to MSN program allows you to go straight from your associate degree to graduate-level nursing courses — no need to earn a separate BSN first.

This path means you build on your experience as a registered nurse while working toward your master’s degree. The RN to MSN program at ���Ҵ�ý offers six different specializations, so you can focus on the area of nursing that fits your career goals.

Master of Science in Nursing

If you currently hold a BSN, a Master of Science in Nursing can help you advance your healthcare career. �°䱫’s MSN program is CCNE-accredited and combines online coursework with hands-on clinical experiences to help you grow your skills and expand your impact in nursing. You can earn your MSN or choose to further your education with a Post-Master’s Certificate.

Post-Master’s Certificates

Have you already earned a graduate degree in nursing? A Post-Master’s Certificate gives you the chance to focus your expertise in a specific area. These programs are typically short, targeted, and designed to expand your qualifications without requiring a full second degree.

Take a look at the post-master’s nursing certificates offered at ���Ҵ�ý:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse Educator
• Nurse Leader
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

How To Choose a Nursing Program

Choosing the right summer nursing program starts with knowing where you stand and where you want to go. However, you need to be honest about what matters most to you, such as your goals, schedule, and learning style.

Before you decide on a program, ask yourself:

• Do you need online flexibility, or do you prefer learning exclusively in person?
• Would an accelerated pace or weekends and evening classes help you stay on track?
• Are you managing other responsibilities like work or family that might impact your schedule?

Once you’ve thought about your priorities, make sure you determine if the nursing program you pick is accredited. An accredited program means you’re getting a quality education that meets industry standards, and it’s often required for licensure, certification, and future job opportunities.

Take the First Step: Enroll in a Summer Nursing Program at ���Ҵ�ý

Ready to take the next step in your nursing journey? This summer is a great time to begin. No matter if you’re beginning with an ADN, BSN, returning for an RN to BSN, RN to MSN, or a Post-Master’s Certificate, summer nursing programs are built to fit your life.

At ���Ҵ�ý, you can choose from multiple nursing pathways with summer start dates. Whether you’re learning via online classes or on campus, you’ll have access to experienced faculty, hands-on training, and a support system focused on helping you succeed.

Your summer start could be the beginning of something big — schedule an information session at ���Ҵ�ý today.

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