Nursing is a demanding career field that requires education and extensive hands-on training. Nevada’s aspiring nurses must select one of three nursing roles to pursue: certified nursing assistant (CNA), licensed practical nurse (LPN), or registered nurse (RN). They must then select from a breadth of state-approved prelicensure programs. Fortunately, our list of Nevada nursing schools can provide a helpful first step in this process.
Vocational, career, and community colleges are good options for students seeking a rapid path to nursing employment. Nevada’s vocational schools offer prelicensure programs for aspiring CNAs, LPNs, and RNs. Nursing assistant certificate programs require the briefest time, just eight to ten weeks of focused study. CNAs must also pass a state certification exam before practicing. LPN certificate programs typically last 12 to 18 months. LPN candidates must successfully pass the NCLEX-PN national exam to gain licensure. Aspiring RNs require the longest period of education. They can complete a two-year associate’s degree in preparation for the NCLEX-RN national licensure exam. Nevada has a handful of vocational schools offering one or more of these nursing pathways, including Everest College in Henderson, Kaplan College in Las Vegas, and Carrington College in Reno.