Proudly known as frontline warriors, nursing is one of the most prestigious and noble professions after medicine. They are also the pillars of healthcare systems. 

There is a wide range of nursing courses available for aspiring candidates. From diploma training to full-fledged specialized programs, aspiring students can pursue various undergraduate and postgraduate nursing courses at any nursing college nationwide. 

How to Become a Nurse After 12th

Some crucial steps should be followed when starting preparations to become a nurse after the 12th grade. 

How do you start preparations at the school level? 

Nursing is not easy. It is why you have to start your preparations at the school level. Candidates have to choose a science stream with biology as a compulsory subject. This applies to the 10+2 standard, and preparations for entrance examinations with hard-core dedication are necessary. 

Undergraduate level preparation -

Once candidates complete schooling, they must score at least 70–80% to enter a bachelor's program at a college. This is for three years. It is advisable to complete some certificate courses in nursing to gain practical knowledge and experience. It helps in building the resumes of the candidates for better job opportunities. 

PG level preparation -

After completing the undergraduate program, it would be highly advantageous for candidates to pursue a degree in a postgraduate program. The more knowledge you can gather in this field, the higher your chances of getting good placements with a high pay package.

Nursing courses for certificates - 

Below are some major nursing courses anyone can explore to become a registered nurse. 

Diploma or associate degree - 

An associate degree is necessary if you want to work as a nurse assistant. The duration of this course is around 1–2 years. Here you can gain basic nursing knowledge in addition to knowing this field's essentials. Apart from an associate degree, you can even opt for diploma courses like - 

• Diploma in Nursing

• Diploma in GNM (General Nursing and Midwifery)

• Auxiliary Nursing and Midwifery (ANM)

Bachelor's Degree Courses - 

The bachelor's degree programs are more focused on providing clinical training besides strengthening theoretical knowledge. This course structure also allows candidates to get an idea of various subfields. Below is a list of undergraduate degree programs. 

• BSc Nursing

• Bachelor's in Nursing and Midwifery

• Bachelor's in Medical Rehabilitation and Nursing Care

• Bachelor of Nursing/Bachelor of Psychological Science

Master's Degree Programs in Nursing

For having a specialization in any particular field of nursing, opting for a master's degree course could be the best one. 

• MSc in Nursing

• Nursing in critical and emergency care

• Advanced Clinical Nursing

• Medical rehabilitation and healthcare management

• Master in mental health nursing

• MSc in public health nursing

Accelerated nursing programs - 

If you are targeting a senior-level job, accelerated nursing programs are among the most well-equipped ones to train candidates in their chosen specialization. Candidates with a bachelor's degree in a different field but who want to pursue a career in nursing may also apply for these course programs. Candidates can take Accelerated and Bachelor of Science in Nursing or Accelerated Nursing courses together. Both of these programs are offered by renowned institutes online and offline courses. 

Conclusion -

Nursing careers are becoming more diversified due to the emerging growth in the healthcare industry. More candidates are interested in pursuing nursing careers than before. To become a registered nurse, you can also join the undergraduate nursing courses offered by JIET Jodhpur, which will create a strong base for your career.