Your Guide to Becoming an RN with a Non-Nursing Degree

Thinking about a career in nursing but already have a bachelor’s degree in another field? You might believe your only option is to start over with a four-year nursing program. The good news is that this isn’t true. Your existing degree can be a powerful asset, unlocking accelerated pathways to becoming a Registered Nurse (RN).

Understanding the "No Traditional Nursing School" Path

When ads mention becoming an RN without attending traditional nursing school, it’s important to understand what this really means. It does not mean you can become a nurse without any formal nursing education. That is impossible and unsafe. Instead, it refers to specialized, fast-track programs designed for individuals who have already completed a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field like psychology, biology, business, or English.

These programs acknowledge the general education coursework you’ve already finished (like math, history, and composition) and allow you to focus exclusively on the science and clinical skills required for nursing. This saves you significant time and money compared to starting a new four-year degree from scratch. The two most common pathways are the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) and the Direct-Entry Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).

Pathway 1: The Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Program

The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing is the most popular route for career changers. It is an intense, full-time program that condenses a traditional nursing curriculum into a shorter timeframe.

How an ABSN Program Works

  • Eligibility: You must hold a bachelor’s degree in any field from an accredited institution.
  • Duration: Most ABSN programs take between 11 and 18 months to complete.
  • Curriculum: The coursework is laser-focused on nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, adult health, pediatrics, mental health, and other core subjects. You will also complete extensive clinical hours in hospitals and other healthcare settings, giving you essential hands-on experience.
  • Outcome: Upon graduation, you earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. This makes you eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), the exam all aspiring nurses must pass to become licensed.

Common Prerequisites for ABSN Programs

Before you can apply, you will need to have completed several science and general education courses. Requirements vary by school, but they typically include:

  • Anatomy & Physiology I & II (with labs)
  • Microbiology (with lab)
  • General Chemistry (with lab)
  • Statistics
  • Human Growth & Development or Developmental Psychology
  • Nutrition

If your first degree was not in the sciences, you can take these prerequisite courses at a local community college or through an online university before applying to an ABSN program.

Pathway 2: The Direct-Entry MSN Program

For those who have long-term goals of leadership, research, or advanced practice, a Direct-Entry Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program is an excellent option. It is also sometimes called a Master’s Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN).

How a Direct-Entry MSN Program Works

  • Eligibility: Like the ABSN, you must have a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field. These programs are often more competitive and may have a higher GPA requirement.
  • Duration: These programs are longer than ABSN programs, typically lasting from 2 to 3 years.
  • Curriculum: A direct-entry program is structured in two phases. The first phase covers the foundational, pre-licensure nursing coursework equivalent to a BSN. After completing this portion, you are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN and become a Registered Nurse. The second phase involves advanced, master’s-level coursework in a specific area of concentration, such as nursing education, healthcare administration, or public health.
  • Outcome: You graduate with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). This not only prepares you for bedside nursing but also opens doors to roles in management, policy, and education. It also provides a direct pathway to continue your education to become a Nurse Practitioner (NP) or other Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN).

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Switch

Changing careers is a big decision. Here is a clear, actionable plan to guide you on your journey from your current degree to becoming an RN.

Step 1: Research and Self-Assessment First, look at the transcripts from your bachelor’s degree. Identify which, if any, of the common prerequisites you have already completed. This will give you a clear idea of how much foundational coursework you still need to do.

Step 2: Find Accredited Programs Search for accredited ABSN and Direct-Entry MSN programs. A great resource is the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) website, which maintains a list of member schools. Look at programs at well-regarded institutions like Johns Hopkins University, Duke University, or your state’s public universities, which often have excellent and more affordable options. Pay close attention to their specific prerequisite requirements, application deadlines, and program start dates.

Step 3: Complete Your Prerequisite Courses Enroll in any missing prerequisite courses. Many students do this at a community college to save money. Be sure to earn strong grades, as these courses are often a key factor in the admissions decision.

Step 4: Gain Healthcare Experience (Recommended) While not always required, gaining some hands-on experience in a healthcare setting can significantly strengthen your application. Consider working part-time as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Patient Care Technician (PCT), or even volunteering at a local hospital or clinic. This demonstrates your commitment to the field and ensures that nursing is the right fit for you.

Step 5: Ace Your Application Gather your application materials, which typically include official transcripts, a personal statement or essay, and letters of recommendation. Your personal statement is your chance to tell your story: why you want to become a nurse and how your previous degree and life experiences have prepared you for success in this challenging new career.

Step 6: Graduate and Pass the NCLEX-RN Once you are accepted and complete your rigorous program, you will have earned your new nursing degree. The final step is to study for and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Once you pass, you can apply for your RN license from your state’s board of nursing and officially begin your career as a Registered Nurse.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are ABSN programs less respected than traditional four-year BSNs? Not at all. Graduates from both types of programs earn the same BSN degree and take the exact same NCLEX-RN licensure exam. Employers value the diverse backgrounds and maturity that career-changers bring to the nursing profession.

Can I work while enrolled in an accelerated nursing program? It is extremely difficult. Most ABSN and direct-entry programs are full-time, intensive commitments. The combination of classes, labs, and clinical rotations often amounts to more than 40 hours per week, leaving little time for outside employment.

What kind of non-nursing degree is best for getting into these programs? While a degree in a science field like biology or kinesiology means you may have already completed some prerequisites, schools accept applicants from all academic backgrounds. A degree in communications, for example, can be a huge asset in developing patient rapport, while a business degree can be valuable for future leadership roles. What matters most is a strong academic record and a clear passion for nursing.