Explore entry-level nursing programs including CNA, LPN, ADN, and BSN. Compare types of nursing degrees, find the best nursing programs, and discover nursing schools near you.
Thinking about a nursing career?
With healthcare jobs growing faster than average, nurses are in high demand across hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. But with so many nursing programs available, deciding which one is right for you can feel overwhelming.
This guide breaks down the types of nursing degrees, highlights the best nursing programs for different goals, and shows you how to find nursing schools near me that match your needs.
What Is an Entry-Level Nursing Program?
An entry-level nursing program prepares students for their first nursing role. Depending on the pathway you choose, you may become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), or a Registered Nurse (RN) through an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
Most programs prepare you for licensure exams like the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN, ensuring you’re ready to provide safe, effective patient care.
Why Nursing Degrees Matter
Different types of nursing degrees open different doors. The degree you earn impacts your:
- Job opportunities (some hospitals prefer BSN-prepared nurses)
- Salary potential (higher degrees often mean higher pay)
- Career growth (leadership and advanced practice require higher education)
- Timeline (shorter programs let you start working faster)
Types of Entry-Level Nursing Programs
1. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Programs
- Length: 4–12 weeks
- Credential: CNA Certificate
- Work Settings: Long-term care, rehabilitation centers, hospitals
- Salary: $35,000–$40,000
Best for: Students who want to start working in healthcare quickly and build experience before advancing.
2. Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) / Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) Programs
- Length: 12–18 months
- Credential: LPN/LVN Certificate or Diploma
- Work Settings: Nursing homes, outpatient clinics, some hospitals
- Salary: $50,000–$55,000
Best for: Students looking for faster training with stable job opportunities.
3. Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Programs
- Length: 2 years
- Credential: Associate Degree in Nursing
- Work Settings: Hospitals, clinics, specialty practices
- Salary: $80,000+
Best for: Affordable entry into RN practice with the option to complete an RN-to-BSN later.
4. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Programs
- Length: 4 years
- Credential: Bachelor’s Degree
- Work Settings: Hospitals, community health, leadership roles
- Salary: $85,000–$100,000
Best for: Students seeking the best nursing programs for long-term career advancement and leadership opportunities.
5. Direct-Entry MSN Programs (for Non-Nursing Majors)
- Length: 2–3 years
- Credential: Master of Science in Nursing
- Work Settings: Hospitals, academic settings, leadership roles
- Salary: $95,000–$120,000
Best for: Students who already hold a bachelor’s in another field and want to switch to nursing.
Comparison of Nursing Programs
| Program | Length | Credential | Typical Salary | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CNA | 4–12 weeks | Certificate | $35,000–$40,000 | Fast healthcare entry |
| LPN/LVN | 12–18 months | Diploma/Certificate | $50,000–$55,000 | Quick training, solid pay |
| ADN | 2 years | Associate Degree | $80,000+ | Affordable RN path |
| BSN | 4 years | Bachelor’s Degree | $85,000–$100,000 | Career growth, leadership |
| MSN (Direct Entry) | 2–3 years | Master’s Degree | $95,000–$120,000 | Career changers with a degree |
Read more about nurse salaries in our How Much Do Entry-Level Nurses Make?
How to Choose the Best Nursing Program
When searching for nursing schools near me, keep these factors in mind:
- Accreditation (look for CCNE or ACEN)
- Program cost and available financial aid
- Location (commute vs. online learning options)
- Clinical placements (hands-on hospital training is critical)
- Career goals (short-term entry vs. long-term leadership)
- Accelerated programs (for fast entry)
The Role of Nursing Schools Near Me
Choosing local nursing schools near me has benefits like:
- In-state tuition savings
- Strong local hospital partnerships
- Evening/weekend class options
- Networking with nearby healthcare employers
This makes local schools a smart choice when researching the best nursing programs.
The Future of Nursing Education
The landscape of nursing programs is evolving:
- More online and hybrid options for working students
- Hospitals are increasingly preferring BSN-prepared nurses
- Growth of accelerated pathways (RN-to-BSN, second-degree BSN)
- Emphasis on simulation labs and technology in training
Your journey into nursing starts with choosing the right program. Whether you begin as a CNA, LPN, ADN, or BSN student, every path offers opportunities to grow into one of healthcare’s most trusted and rewarding professions.
Explore different types of nursing degrees, compare the best nursing programs, and don’t forget to look for nursing schools near me to find the most convenient and affordable option.