How Much Does It Cost To Be A Nurse?
There is no doubt that nursing is a highly respected and ethical professional. It also has a great scope and salary packages. But before saving lives, every potential nurse has to go through nursing school and curriculum. One of the biggest questions about nursing school is, “How much will it cost to be a nurse?”. Unfortunately, the answer can’t be given in exact figures. The cost of being a nurse depends on several factors, such as where you live, what kind of degree you want, and whether you choose to study online or on campus. This article is an ultimate guide for students who consider nursing their ideal profession. It is fair enough to be this passionate about helping people, but the cost factor should be addressed. So stay tuned till the end to find out how to minimize this journey’s extra cost.
Factors That Affect Nursing School Costs
Before starting the actual price of programs, it is essential to know how different things can affect the cost of the nursing program. Several things can change how much nursing school costs, including:
- Length of the program
- Type of Degree
- Public vs. private schools
- Location of the school
- Studying online vs. in-person
These factors can change the cost to be a nurse totally upside down. Below, we’ll explore these in more detail and examine the different costs for each nursing degree.
Tuition Fees For Programs
Tuition fees for programs vary based on location and programs. Some nursing schools may charge per credit hour, while others may offer flat-rate tuition. However, choosing an affordable program for personal mental peace is advised. Below are the tuition fees for different nursing programs.
Cost of an ADN Program
An ADN program usually takes two years to complete. It’s one of the quickest ways to become a registered nurse (RN). According to national statistics, the total cost of an ADN program can range from $23,900 to $66,320, with an average yearly cost of around $12,300. This includes tuition, housing, and other fees.
| School Type | Average Yearly Tuition | Room and Board | Total Yearly Cost |
| Public | $3,600 | $8,360 | $11,950 |
| Private | $20,020 | $13,140 | $33,160 |
Cost of a BSN Program
A full-time BSN program usually takes four years to complete. The total cost for a BSN program ranges from $89,556 to $211,392, with an average yearly cost of $30,884. This includes tuition, housing, and other fees.
| School Type | Average Yearly Tuition | Room and Board | Total Yearly Cost |
| Public | $9,750 | $12,639 | $22,389 |
| Private | $38,421 | $14,426 | $52,848 |
Cost of an MSN Program
MSN programs usually take 1-2 years to complete if you’re studying full-time. The total cost for these programs ranges from $28,060 to $78,820, with an average yearly fee of $33,150.
| School Type | Average Yearly Tuition | Total Yearly Cost |
| Public | $11,320 | $28,100 |
| Private | $21,140 | $39,410 |
Additional Costs
Tuition fees are not a huge problem as students are already prepared for that. However, additional expenses make the whole journey unimaginable. From the experience of graduated nursing students, the extra costs keep bugging more than actual tuition fees. Here are some additional expenses most nursing students cover during their journey.
- Cost of Textbooks and Supplies
Textbooks are a significant part of nursing education. On average, nursing textbooks can cost anywhere from $200 to $1,500 annually. Plus, you’ll need other essential supplies like notebooks, pens, and access to online learning resources.
- Clinical Supplies and Training Costs
Nursing student have to attend clinical rotations as a part of their training. Thus, they need basic clinical supplies such as stethoscopes, blood pressure cuffs, and lab coats. Another additional expense quickly adds up to around $500-$1000.
Additionally, some programs also charge fees for clinical training. It can charge from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the length and location of the training.
- Licensure Fees and Board Exams
After the nursing program is complete, students have to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become RN. Lisence exam alone costs around $200 to $300, but some states also charge additional fees for licensure.
- Housing, Food, and Transportation
If the student is a foreigner, they must pay for rent, groceries, and transportation daily. Apart from that, they also have to work, which is complex with a traditional nursing program.
Online vs. In-Person Nursing Programs
Students of online classes usually have to pay less for tuition and additional expenses. Tradition on-campus programs are lengthy and costly. Additionally, in-person classes have more expenses, such as transportation, textbooks, and other institutes’ requirements. However, online nursing programs are free of these tensions. The cost to be a nurse in online programs is relatively low as students online, apart from tuition fees, only need a stable internet connection, laptop, and notes to complete the program.
Student Loans and Financial Aid Options
Most of the time, the cost to be a nurse can’t be managed by students. There is no need to worry if you are financially constrained during your nursing journey. Student loans are a standard option in states. But here is a tip: Check their term before signing the loan. Another way to solve financial problems is to get scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. It will reduce the most out-of-pocket expenses right away. Apply for as many scholarships as you can to lighten your financial load.
Bottom Line
The cost to be a nurse depends on many factors, but the rewards of this career make the investment worthwhile. From tuition fees to clinical supplies, carefully planning the budget is important. After understanding the budget process, students can be better prepared to manage their financial responsibilities as they become nurses.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does nursing school cost on average?
Nursing school can range from $20,000 to over $100,000, depending on the program and location.
Are there affordable nursing programs available?
Yes, many community colleges and online programs offer affordable nursing degrees, helping to reduce the overall cost to be a nurse.
What financial aid options are available to reduce the cost to be a nurse?
Financial aid options include scholarships, grants, and student loans. Some programs also offer work-study opportunities to help manage the cost.
Does the cost to be a nurse differ for online and in-person programs?
Online nursing programs are often more affordable than traditional on-campus options, but clinical training fees may still apply.
Can I reduce the cost to be a nurse by attending part-time?
Attending part-time may lower your immediate expenses but can extend the time it takes to complete the program, potentially increasing overall costs.
How do tuition fees differ between associate’s and bachelor’s degrees in nursing?
An associate degree usually costs less, around $10,000 to $20,000, while a bachelor’s degree can range from $20,000 to $40,000 or more.
Does the cost to be a nurse include certification exam fees?
No, exam fees for certifications like the NCLEX-RN are separate and typically cost around $200 to $300.
Can employers help cover the cost to be a nurse?
Some hospitals and healthcare organizations offer tuition reimbursement or assistance programs for nursing students.
What is the return on investment for the cost to be a nurse?
While the upfront cost to be a nurse can be significant, nurses often earn competitive salaries, making it a worthwhile investment for a rewarding career.
What additional expenses should I consider beyond tuition?
Beyond tuition, other costs include textbooks, clinical supplies, exam fees, uniforms, and transportation for clinical rotations.