What It Takes to Become a Nurse
Pursuing a nursing career requires meeting specific educational, professional, and personal criteria. Below are the key requirements:
GPA
Most nursing programs require a minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0. Competitive programs may have higher GPA standards, particularly for advanced degrees.
Education
Prospective nurses must complete a nursing program, which could be a diploma, an associate degree (ADN), or a bachelor's degree (BSN). A BSN is often preferred for advanced opportunities.
Licensing Exam
After completing an accredited program, candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses) to obtain their nursing license.
Background Check
Nursing applicants are typically required to undergo a background check to ensure they meet ethical and legal standards for working in healthcare.
Application Process
Admission to nursing programs involves submitting an application, transcripts, recommendation letters, and often a personal statement or interview.
Additional Certifications
Depending on the specialization, nurses may need certifications such as Basic Life Support (BLS) or Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS).
