How Can I Become a Nurse? I Already Have a Bachelor's Degree

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Have you ever thought, “I already have a bachelor’s degree, how can I become a nurse?” You’re not alone. Every year, thousands of degree-holders across the world choose to change direction and start a rewarding career in nursing. The demand for nurses is skyrocketing, and people from various backgrounds rom science to business, arts to engineering are taking this exciting leap.

If you’re ready to turn your passion for helping others into a stable, respected, and high-growth profession, this in-depth guide will explain how to become a nurse when you already have a bachelor’s degree. Here, you’ll find step-by-step instructions, real-world examples, the fastest routes, the costs involved, financial aid tips, pros and cons, salary expectations, and answers to common questions. Let’s make your career switch as smooth as possible.

In This Article

Why Become a Nurse After Earning a Bachelor’s Degree?

Many people ask, “I already have a bachelor’s degree, how can I become a nurse, and is it worth it?” The answer often lies in the unique rewards and stability that nursing offers.

Key Reasons:

Job Security: Nursing is recession-proof and offers excellent employment prospects.
Competitive Salaries: RNs often earn more than many other graduates.
Flexible Schedules: Opportunities for part-time, night, or shift work.
Growth Opportunities: Pathways to become a nurse practitioner, educator, or manager.
Personal Fulfillment: Making a direct, positive impact on lives.
Global Demand: The nursing shortage is worldwide, creating opportunities to work abroad.

Real-Life Motivation:
Many career-changers cite the need for meaningful work or inspiration from family health challenges. If you want to combine science, human connection, and hands-on work, nursing is an ideal path.

Can You Become a Nurse with a Non-Nursing Degree?

Absolutely. If you’re asking, “I already have a bachelor’s degree, how can I become a nurse?” you’re a perfect candidate for Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs, sometimes called Second Degree BSN or Direct Entry MSN.

These programs are specifically designed for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. Whether your background is in psychology, business, literature, or biology, you can pivot into nursing in 12–24 months.

Quick Facts:

No need for a prior science degree just complete prerequisite courses.
All backgrounds are welcome: art majors, engineers, teachers, and more.
Second degree nurses bring unique skills to the profession.

Understanding Your Nursing Career Options

When searching “I already have a bachelor’s degree, how can I become a nurse?”, it’s essential to know your options:

Option	Typical Credential	Who It’s For	Duration
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)	Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)	Anyone with a bachelor’s degree	12–18 months
Direct Entry MSN	Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)	Non-nurses with a bachelor’s, for advanced roles	18–36 months
Entry-Level Master’s Programs	MSN, CNL, etc.	Career changers aiming for leadership roles	2–3 years
Diploma/ADN (not common)	Associate Degree	Rare for second-degree students, takes longer	2–3 years

Most career-changers choose an Accelerated BSN.

Accelerated Nursing Programs: The Fastest Route

The quickest way for most is the Accelerated BSN.

What Is an Accelerated BSN?

Designed for degree-holders: Programs assume you’ve already completed general education (English, math, history, etc.).
Full-time and fast-paced: Complete in 12–18 months (some as fast as 11 months!).
Rigorous: Combines classroom learning, labs, and clinical rotations.
Widely available: Over 300 programs in the US, plus options worldwide.

What Will You Learn?

Fundamentals of nursing care
Pharmacology, physiology, microbiology, and pathophysiology
Adult, pediatric, obstetric, psychiatric, and community nursing
Hands-on clinicals at hospitals/clinics

Who Should Choose ABSN?

Motivated, organized students ready for an intensive workload.
People ready to commit to 40+ hours/week (classes + clinicals).

How to Choose the Right Accelerated Program

If you’re thinking, “I already have a bachelor’s degree, how can I become a nurse quickly?”, finding the best program for your needs is key.

Checklist for Picking a School:

Accreditation: Only choose CCNE or ACEN accredited programs.
NCLEX-RN Pass Rates: High pass rates mean good preparation.
Clinical Partnerships: Look for strong hospital networks.
Location: Campus-based, online/hybrid, or near home?
Cost and Financial Aid: Compare tuition and living expenses.
Program Length and Format: 12, 16, or 18 months? Is part-time allowed?
Reputation and Reviews: Search for student testimonials and outcomes.

Tip: Make a spreadsheet to compare your top options.

Step-by-Step: How to Become a Nurse with a Bachelor’s Degree

Let’s walk through exactly what you need to do if you’re asking, “I already have a bachelor’s degree, how can I become a nurse?”

Step 1: Research Programs

List all accredited ABSN, Direct Entry MSN, and entry-level master’s options near you or online.

Step 2: Review Prerequisites

Most programs require science prerequisites: Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Chemistry, and sometimes Statistics or Nutrition.

Step 3: Complete Prerequisite Courses (if needed)

Take any missing courses at a local community college or online.

Step 4: Prepare Your Application

Collect transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and résumé.
Prepare for interviews if required.

Step 5: Apply to Multiple Schools

Boost your chances by applying to at least 3–5 programs.

Step 6: Secure Funding

Research scholarships, federal student aid, state grants, and private loans.

Step 7: Complete the Accelerated Program

Expect a fast-paced, immersive experience classes, labs, and clinicals.

Step 8: Graduate and Apply for Licensure

Apply for RN licensure in your state.

Step 9: Pass the NCLEX-RN

Prepare thoroughly using study guides and practice exams.

Step 10: Start Working as a Registered Nurse

Apply for jobs, attend interviews, and start your new career!

Prerequisites for Nursing School Admission

What are the prerequisites if you already have a bachelor’s degree?

Most accelerated nursing programs will accept your previous bachelor’s, but they require you to have completed these specific courses:

Common Prerequisite Courses:

Human Anatomy & Physiology I and II (with lab)
Microbiology (with lab)
Chemistry (general or organic, with lab)
Nutrition
Statistics
Developmental or General Psychology

How to Complete Them:

Take at a local community college or university.
Many schools offer online science courses with lab kits.
Some programs accept AP or CLEP credits.

Tip: Contact your target program’s admissions counselor to map out what’s missing.

Typical Coursework and Clinicals

What will you study and do during your accelerated nursing program?

Core Subjects:

Foundations of Nursing Practice
Health Assessment
Pathophysiology
Pharmacology
Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice
Nursing Care for Adults, Children, Maternity, Mental Health, Community Health

Clinical Rotations:

Hospitals, outpatient clinics, and long-term care facilities
Supervised by experienced RNs and instructors
500–800 clinical hours (varies by state/program)
Real-world, hands-on patient care

Simulated Labs:

Learn skills like IV starts, wound care, medication administration, and emergency response

This is an immersive, demanding experience that fully prepares you for nursing practice.

How Long Does It Take?

For anyone wondering, “I already have a bachelor’s degree, how can I become a nurse quickly?” here’s the usual timeline:

Program Type	Typical Length
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)	12–18 months (full time)
Direct Entry MSN	18–36 months
Part-time/Hybrid Options	20–30 months

Some highly intensive programs can be completed in just 12 months, but most students take 16–20 months due to clinical requirements and licensing prep.

Cost, Scholarships, and Financial Aid

How much will it cost to become a nurse with a bachelor’s degree already?

Typical Expenses:

Tuition: $30,000–$60,000+ for ABSN (private schools may be higher)
Books, uniforms, lab fees: $2,000–$4,000
Living expenses: varies by location

Financial Aid and Scholarships:

Federal and state financial aid: Apply via FAFSA (US students)
Scholarships: Many schools, hospitals, and associations offer scholarships for second-degree nursing students.
Loan forgiveness: Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) applies if you work in a nonprofit or public hospital.
Employer sponsorship: Some hospitals pay for your program if you commit to work for them after graduation.

Pro Tip: Look into HRSA’s Nurse Corps Scholarship Program, state-specific tuition waivers, and diversity scholarships.

Online and Hybrid Accelerated Nursing Programs

Is it possible to study online?

Yes! Many top nursing schools now offer online or hybrid accelerated BSN programs for people who already have a bachelor’s degree. These programs combine online coursework with in-person clinical placements at hospitals near your home.

Benefits:

Study from anywhere
Keep working part-time (in some cases)
Flexible schedules

Drawbacks:

You still need to attend clinicals in person
Not all states accept out-of-state online nursing degrees—check local requirements

Tip: Search for programs with high job placement rates and robust support for clinical placements.

Licensing and Passing the NCLEX-RN Exam

Once you complete your program, the next step is crucial:

The NCLEX-RN Exam

Purpose: To ensure you’re safe and competent to begin work as a nurse.
Format: Computer-based, multiple choice, up to 145 questions.
Subjects Covered: Safe and effective care, health promotion, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity.

Steps to Licensure:

Graduate from an accredited nursing program
Apply for licensure with your state board of nursing
Register and schedule your NCLEX-RN
Pass the NCLEX-RN

Pass Rates: Over 85% of accelerated BSN grads pass on the first try.

Tip: Many schools include NCLEX prep in the curriculum. Use online test banks and join study groups.

Jobs and Salaries for Nurses with a Previous Bachelor’s

How does your previous degree help your nursing career?

Nurses with prior bachelor’s degrees are highly sought after for their diverse backgrounds and skills.

Entry-Level Roles:

Registered Nurse (RN) in hospitals, clinics, home care, public health
Specialties: ER, ICU, pediatrics, maternity, surgery, oncology, mental health, etc.

Advanced and Non-Traditional Paths:

Nurse Educator
Nurse Manager or Administrator
Case Manager
Nurse Informatics Specialist
Pharmaceutical or Medical Device Sales

Average Salary for RNs (US):

$78,000/year (2024 data; varies by state and experience)
Advanced roles (NPs, educators): $100,000+

Career Progression:
Your prior experience in another field (business, IT, communication) can lead to unique nursing roles in administration, informatics, policy, or consulting.

Pros and Cons of Switching to Nursing

Thinking, “I already have a bachelor’s degree, how can I become a nurse, and is it worth it?” Consider the ups and downs.

Pros:

Shorter time to graduation (12–18 months)
Strong job market and salary potential
Meaningful, people-focused work
Flexible hours and locations
Multiple career paths and specialties
Travel and global work opportunities

Cons:

Intense, demanding coursework and clinicals
Tuition costs (but fast ROI)
Emotional and physical stress of patient care
Need for continued education and certification
Shift work, nights, and weekends (early in career)

Most career-changers find the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.

Real Stories: Career Changers Who Became Nurses

Case 1: Marketing Graduate to ER Nurse

“I already had a bachelor’s in marketing and worked in advertising for five years. After caring for my sick father, I knew I needed a change. I enrolled in an accelerated BSN program, finished in 16 months, passed my NCLEX on the first try, and now work in a busy emergency department. It’s the best decision I ever made.”

Case 2: Biology Major to Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

“With a biology degree, I found lab work uninspiring. I took the prerequisites for an accelerated MSN, and now I’m a pediatric nurse practitioner. My science background made the transition smoother, but I was surrounded by classmates with degrees in art, history, and psychology, too.”

Case 3: Engineer to Informatics Nurse

“After a decade in IT, I felt unfulfilled. My hospital offered tuition reimbursement for a direct entry MSN. Now I bridge technology and healthcare as a nurse informaticist.”

Must Read:

FAQs:

Q1: I already have a bachelor’s degree. How long will it take me to become a nurse?

A: Most people complete an Accelerated BSN in 12–18 months, depending on prerequisites and program intensity.

Q2: What if my bachelor’s is not in science?

A: No problem. You may need to take extra science prerequisites (anatomy, microbiology, etc.) before starting.

Q3: Can I work while in an accelerated nursing program?

A: It’s possible, but not recommended programs are full-time and very demanding.

Q4: Are there online accelerated nursing programs?

A: Yes! Many reputable schools offer online/hybrid ABSN options with in-person clinicals.

Q5: How much does it cost to become a nurse with a prior degree?

A: Tuition ranges from $30,000 to $60,000+, plus living costs, but financial aid and scholarships are widely available.

Q6: What is the job outlook for nurses?

A: The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 6% growth for nurses through 2032 much faster than average for all occupations.

Q7: Can I become an advanced practice nurse (NP, CNS, CRNA) with an accelerated BSN?

A: Yes! Many go on to pursue a Master’s or Doctorate in Nursing after gaining RN experience.

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

If you’ve been wondering, “I already have a bachelor’s degree, how can I become a nurse?”, you’re closer than you think. Nursing is open to anyone willing to put in the work, and your previous degree gives you a valuable head start.

Next Steps:

Research accredited accelerated BSN and direct entry MSN programs.
Check prerequisites and complete any missing courses.
Gather your transcripts, recommendations, and application materials.
Apply early and to multiple programs.
Seek out scholarships, grants, and employer support.
Prepare mentally and practically for a full-time, fast-paced program.
On graduation, ace the NCLEX-RN and start your new career!

Remember: Your unique skills, life experience, and passion are exactly what the nursing profession needs right now.

Quick Reference Table

Step	Key Actions
1. Research Programs	Look for accredited ABSN/Direct Entry MSN programs
2. Review/Complete Prerequisites	Take required science/math courses
3. Prepare Application	Gather transcripts, references, and write a strong personal statement
4. Secure Funding	Apply for FAFSA, scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement
5. Complete Program	Commit to full-time study and clinical work
6. Graduate and Apply for Licensure	Submit to state board, schedule NCLEX-RN exam
7. Pass NCLEX-RN	Use review courses and practice tests
8. Begin Your Nursing Career	Start applying for jobs before graduation

Conclusion:

Transitioning from a previous career or degree into nursing is one of the most rewarding, future-proof decisions you can make. If you’re ready for a fulfilling career that combines science, compassion, and endless opportunity, now is the perfect time to make the leap. Start your journey today!

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