If you want to pursue a nursing career...

For many of you, getting your CNA or GNA is just the first step in a path towards becoming a registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN) in the US. It can be a long process, but nursing is a rewarding career with opportunities for a good income and career advancement. Go for it! 

As your first step, do some research online to understand what opportunities are available for studies and which path is best for you.  It can be complicated to continue your studies in the US. Montgomery College is an excellent choice for studies, and there are many other schools in DC/Montgomery County area that offer nursing education. For example, Johns Hopkins, University of Maryland and George Washington University also have programs. Do your research so you make a good choice based on your education, financial situation and availability to study.  

There are several types of college-level nursing degrees in the US, including Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. The ADN is a two-year degree and BSN is a 4-year college degree. Both of these paths allow you to take the Registered Nurse Exam, (called NCLEX) and then you get the RN license. The difference is in the authority you have and your ability to continue your education after your nursing degree. The BSN gives you the most opportunities but takes longer to get.  If you already have a Bachelors Degree in another country, there are some ‘accelerated’ programs that let you get a BSN in a much shorter time.  

Here are links to start your research:

• About ADN and BSN: This website has some useful information about the different ways to get your RN
• About LPNs: A Licensed Practice Nurse license is a much shorter educational process, but it is not a complete college education and the LPN works under the supervision of an RN. It can be a good start for higher earning and responsibilities. 
• About Accelerated Programs if you Have a Bachelors' Degree Here is some basic information about accelerated programs 
• About Maryland requirements for nurses from other countries

 
Links to different types of nursing programs

• Montgomery College Nursing Program: Here is MC’s ADN program information (and there are other schools near us that offer ADN). The website has information for taking the next steps at MC– there is a helpful video if you click here 

 

• BSN programs in this area - click school name for info:  Universities at Shady Grove; University of Maryland , Towson University, UMBC Pre-Nursing  

 

• Accelerated Nursing Programs for people with a Bachelors’ Degree: George Washington University accelerated program with MedStar, George Mason, Marymount (online and in person) and Salisbury.

If you are interested in nursing, get started with the research and learn whether you need to get started with ‘prerequisites’ or other requirements. You will be required to pass an English Proficiency Test to work as an RN in the US. Study English as a Second Language if you are not fluent, because you will need it for school! You can also ask your employer what tuition assistance is available as part of your job benefits, and when you are eligible to request the tuition assistance.

Montgomery College English Placement Test information
 

If you have a nursing degree in another country, you can follow steps to get a US License. Talk to the Welcome Back Center of Montgomery County and look at the Career Pathways in Nursing Guide from the World Education Services. 

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