Best Nursing Schools in Montana

Best RN Programs in Montana

Montana Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees

The nursing degree you pursue will largely depend on your personal and professional aspirations. Many aspiring nurses opt for an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) because these options are affordable and can be completed in a relatively short time. Below, you can explore the differences between these programs and other available options.

Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs

If you’re new to the nursing field and seeking the quickest route to start your career in Montana, an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) is the ideal choice. Both the ADN and nursing diploma programs typically take one to two years to complete. For those with prior nursing experience, such as working as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), enrolling in an LPN to RN bridge program may allow you to earn either an ADN or a BSN in a shorter time.

Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Montana include:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 or higher
• Some programs require scores from the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment

For further admissions requirements and more information, check out our page on ADN degree programs.

More information on RN diplomas, LPN to RN, and ADN programs:

ADN, LPN to RN, and nursing diploma programs require hands-on clinical training hours under supervision in order to be eligible for RN licensure. These will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid program. Not sure if you’re ready for an RN career? Consider an LPN or CNA program in Montana.

Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs

At the entry-level, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is often the most sought-after degree by employers in Montana. These programs typically take around four years to complete and provide comprehensive training and education. However, if you already have nursing experience, an RN to BSN program could be a faster route. For individuals with a bachelor's degree in another field who want to transition into nursing, an Accelerated BSN program offers a streamlined path to earn your nursing degree in a shorter time frame.

Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Montana typically include:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
• Completion of prerequisite courses

For more information on BSN admissions requirements and more, see our BSN degrees page.

Several alternative pathways are also available to qualified students who want to pursue a BSN. Compare your options below:

RN to BSN

Montana RN to BSN offer a valuable opportunity for nurses already working in the field who are looking to further their education. If you hold an ADN, an RN license, and some experience, you can enroll in this bridge program and earn your BSN in just two years—half the time it would take to complete a traditional BSN program. This is an excellent way for working nurses to enhance their qualifications without taking extended time off from their careers.

Accelerated BSN (ABSN)

Some individuals may choose to pursue nursing later in their careers after already earning a bachelor’s degree in another field. Montana ABSN programs provide a great option for those looking to transition into nursing. With this program, you can leverage your existing degree and complete your BSN in as little as a year, allowing you to quickly shift into a fulfilling nursing career.

Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs

For many students, graduate school represents the next step in their nursing career. Programs such as a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, a bridge program to enter advanced practice, or even a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) offer excellent opportunities for those seeking to enhance their professional value, increase earning potential, and gain more autonomy in their roles. Admission to most nursing graduate programs typically requires a BSN (or higher) and an active RN license. These advanced degrees open doors to leadership positions and specialized clinical practice.

Earning a graduate-level degree in nursing opens the door to numerous Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) roles, leadership roles, and even careers in academia or research. Read more about APRN pathways in Montana:

• Montana Nurse Practitioner Programs
• Montana MSN Program
• Montana RN to MSN Programs
• Montana Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
• Montana DNP Programs

Getting an RN License in Montana

After completing your nursing education, obtaining your RN license is an essential step to start practicing in Montana. To become licensed, you’ll need to graduate with at least an ADN, pass the NCLEX-RN exam, and submit your application to the Montana Board of Nursing. Once you’re licensed, you must complete continuing education requirements to maintain your credentials and stay up to date with the latest nursing practices.

Requirements for RN Licensure in Montana

• Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
• Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
• Application to the Montana Board of Nursing
• Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance

Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?

Crucial to receiving licensure is graduating from an accredited program. RN program accreditation in the US is handled by both the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). If a program is accredited by one of these two programs, it means that it has passed the state’s requirements concerning training and curriculum. If it has not been accredited, you will not be able to get licensed upon graduation.

Continued List of All RN Programs in Montana

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