Those wanting to enter the thriving field of nursing have a range of options when it comes to acquiring the education, training and licensing required. Those hoping to become registered nurses typically take one of three paths, they earn a bachelor's of science degree in nursing, an associate degree in nursing or earn a diploma from an approved nursing program, in addition to acquiring the necessary licensing. Many nursing students opt to attend local two-year schools, such as Houston's San Jacinto College, to earn their associate degree in nursing. San Jacinto's degree program, which can be a three-, four- or five-semester program of study, includes classroom; laboratory work; and clinical training involving simulation labs using low- and high-fidelity manikins, and external clinical settings.
