Reasons to Consider Direct Admit Nursing Programs + A List of Colleges with Direct Admit Programs

Throughout history, nurses have been integral to the medical profession. However, it could be argued the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the essential role nurses play in caring for patients in an unprecedented way. From a career perspective, nursing can be fulfilling–personally and financially–and the demand for nurses is robust.  In fact, per data published in the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Handbook:

• The employment of registered nurses is projected to grow by 6% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
• The employment of nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners is projected to grow 40 percent from 2023 to 2023, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Paths to Becoming a Nurse

While there are several paths to a career in nursing, it is crucial to understand that more and more employers of nurses prefer, and in some cases require, a bachelor’s degree, the focus of this article. Below are the three main paths to becoming a nurse in order of entry-level demands.

Path 1: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs offer a four-year degree that provides the comprehensive foundation for a nursing career. More and more,  it is considered the standard for nursing positions. A bSN is required to progress to more advanced nursing roles, including nurse practitioner, midwife, and nurse anesthetist. 

Path 2: Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)

An Associate of Science in Nursing degree is a two-year program that prepares students to become registered nurses (RNs). In recent years, many online programs have become available for working RNs to complete their BSN degrees.

Path 3: Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Entry requirements for LPN programs are less demanding than for BSN and RN programs. LPNs work under the supervision of RNs, and LPN programs can be a stepping stone to becoming an RN. Some community colleges have developed bridge programs to help qualified LPNs become RNs. 

Note: All nurses must pass the NCLEX licensing examination.

Since direct admission into a nursing program is the only guaranteed path to nursing at the bachelor’s degree level, competitive high school students may wish to consider applying to schools that offer that path. Regardless of the path to nursing one chooses to take, there are key considerations all aspiring nurses should know.

• Rigor of High School Transcript: Nursing is a competitive major. We recommend students who are considering nursing take the most rigorous classes they can succeed in and aim to exceed basic requirements (e.g., take four science classes).
• Standardized Test Scores: While not all direct admit nursing programs require standardized test scores, some do. Even when not required, competitive standardized test scores make an application more compelling. Importantly, read the fine print, as some colleges that do not require standardized test scores for general admissions do require them for direct admit nursing students.
• Extracurricular Activities: Involvement in relevant extracurricular activities shows passion and interest. Consider opportunities to volunteer in a medical setting and/or shadowing a medical professional, if possible. At the very least, aspiring nurses should demonstrate a commitment to the well-being of others.
• Program Accreditation: Ensure that nursing programs of interest are accredited by recognized professional organizations such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).​
• Clinical Rotations: Investigate the clinical rotation opportunities offered by the program, including partnerships with local hospitals and healthcare facilities and when clinicals start.​
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rates: Consider the program's pass rates for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), as this is a strong indicator of a program's effectiveness.​ 

Comparison of Traditional Admission versus Direct Admission

Click HERE for a Comprehensive List of Colleges with Direct Admit Nursing Programs

Final Thoughts

Although nursing is a noble and rewarding career, access to nursing school is competitive—as it should be! Students planning to pursue a nursing career are encouraged to do their due diligence to understand the merits of one program over another and ONLY apply to accredited institutions where the odds of achieving one’s goals are maximized.

For more information on applying to college, regardless of intended major, feel free to reach out at kathy@fineeducationalsolutions.com.