How hard is it to get into nursing school? What does it take?

Question

Hello I'm a senior this year with about a 3.8. I have a 25 on the ACT and I am taking A&P, Advanced biology, Chem II, and college alg/trig. What I'm wondering is that i heard that it takes 1-2 YEARS? to get into a nursing program? Is this true? Also is nursing school really hard? what other options are out there if i still want to work in the medical field? does any1 have their BSN degree? was it very hard to get it? did it take you long? How much did it cost you?

I'm a male btw if that makes any difference.

Answer 1

Yes, nursing school are very competitive and there are long wait lists.  You can start at a school with a nursing program and get the general education and science pre-reqs out of the way--that's about two years.  Make sure to apply to an accredited school, as many private schools are popping up and are not accredited properly.

It's hard but once you are in you will be fine.  There are lots of clinical hours, but some courses can be done on-line.  

Also check out medical technologists--they are also in high demand and there are 4-year programs that don't have the waitlists like nurses.  4-year Med Techs make about the same as nurses.  Also various types of therapists are in demand--especially respiratory therapists, but also physical and occupational.  Any of those would be great careers.