Maine Nursing Programs
The rural landscape of Maine is one of beauty and tranquility. However, while Maine’s stunning countryside invites thousands of travelers every year, it also invites a shortage of certain amenities and resources. Due to this and Maine’s rapidly aging population, it can often be hard to find adequate healthcare options in the state. According to recent surveys, Maine is expecting a 3% decrease in the nursing population. While this is troubling for local Mainers, it is also an opportunity for those who have been considering a career as a nurse. Many nursing programs exist in Maine and with the use of online programs and bridge programs, it’s now easier than ever to begin this new journey.
Maine Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
If you're thinking about starting a career as a registered nurse, Maine offers several entry-level degree pathways to help you get there. Many aspiring nurses begin with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Each pathway has unique advantages, so consider which option aligns best with your career aspirations.
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
If you're new to nursing and seeking the quickest path into the field, an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is a great choice. Both the ADN and a nursing diploma can be completed in one to two years. For those with prior nursing experience, such as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), an LPN to RN bridge program can be an excellent option, allowing you to earn either an ADN or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Maine 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:
| Program | Estimated Tuition | Estimated Credits | Online Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADN | $6,000 – $15,000 | 60-72 credits | Limited online courses, primarily on-campus |
| LPN to RN | $4,000 – $10,000 | 30-45 credits | Often hybrid; some online courses |
| RN Diploma | $5,000 – $12,000 | 40-60 credits | Rarely online; primarily on-campus |
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 Maine.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs
As you explore the right nursing program, you'll find three main bachelor's degree options: the traditional BSN, RN to BSN, and accelerated BSN (ABSN). For those new to nursing without a prior bachelor's degree, the traditional BSN is the ideal choice. If you already hold a bachelor's degree in a different field, an ABSN program enables you to earn a BSN on an accelerated timeline. Meanwhile, the RN to BSN pathway is tailored for licensed, working nurses who want to complete their BSN more quickly.
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Maine 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:
| Program | Length | Estimated Tuition | Entrance Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional BSN | 4 years (120-126 credits) | $20,000 – $50,000 | First-time college students |
| RN to BSN | 1-2 years (30-35 credits) | $10,000 – $20,000 | Licensed RNs with an ADN |
| ABSN | 12-18 months (50-60 credits) | $25,000 – $40,000 | Non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders |
RN to BSN
For RN bridge programs visit:
As a working nurse, the easiest way to get a BSN is through a Maine RN to BSN. These bridge programs are available to any nurse who has their RN license and an ADN (plus usually a few years of experience). While a traditional BSN program usually takes four years to complete, an RN to BSN program only takes about two years.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Maine ABSN programs are available for students who have a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing subject. These types of programs work with the student’s existing education to deliver a pathway to a BSN within a year or two.
Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
For many aspiring nurses, graduate school is the key to advancing their careers. Options like a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, a bridge program to enter advanced practice, or a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) offer pathways to higher salaries, greater autonomy, and broader job opportunities. Typically, applicants to nursing graduate programs must have at least a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and a current RN license.
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 Maine:
- Maine Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Maine MSN Program
- Maine RN to MSN Programs
- Maine Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- Maine DNP Programs
See Related Articles
Getting an RN License in Maine
Requirements for RN Licensure in Maine
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the Maine Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance
Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?
The most important thing you must consider when shopping for RN programs is RN program accreditation. Accreditation is a formal review process that ensures a nursing school or program meets established quality standards. In the United States, two primary organizations accredit nursing programs: the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). If a program is not accredited, it means that if you graduate from it, you will no the able to get licensed.
Cities With Nursing Programs in Maine
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