The fastest program to become a nurse is typically an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), which takes about 12 to 24 months to complete.
ADN programs prepare students to take the NCLEX-RN exam and become licensed Registered Nurses (RNs). They focus on core clinical skills and essential theory, with fewer general education courses than bachelor’s programs.
Some accelerated ADN tracks, often called “fast-track” or “intensive” programs, can be finished in 12 to 18 months with year-round enrollment. These demand full-time commitment and rigorous pacing.
Prerequisites May Affect Timeline
Before starting an ADN program, you may need to complete prerequisites like anatomy, microbiology, or English. Completing these in advance can help you enter the fastest program to become a nurse without delays.
Some schools offer combined prerequisite and nursing coursework in a streamlined sequence.
Alternative Options
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs are even shorter—often 12 months—but lead to a different role with less scope than an RN. Some use this as a stepping stone to an RN via bridge programs.
Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs exist for students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. These take 12 to 18 months but are more intensive and costly than ADN tracks.
Important Considerations
While the ADN is the fastest program to become a nurse, many employers now prefer or require a BSN. Some states are moving toward “BSN in 10” laws, requiring ADN graduates to earn a BSN within 10 years of licensure.
Still, an ADN remains the quickest path to RN licensure and entry into the workforce. You can always pursue a BSN later through an RN-to-BSN program, often while working.
The fastest program to become a nurse is an ADN, completed in 12 to 24 months. It provides the shortest route to RN licensure, clinical practice, and career advancement.