NURSING DEGREE PROGRAMS   Programs   All NursingLPN to LVNRN to BSNOther

Tuition and Fees - Nursing Degree Source

Due to the fact that there are so many different ways in which a person can become a nurse and so many different types of nursing, the costs involved in nursing education can vary widely. One thing is certain, between tuition, fees, and other expenses, there can be some rather large costs involved in becoming a nurse.

Tuition can vary widely, and there are several factors that can contribute to this. Two-year programs, for instance, are less expensive per year than four-year programs. Also, it is less expensive to attend a college in your home state than it is to go to an out-of-state school. Private colleges have higher tuitions than public colleges. Finally, the exact nursing program you choose, whether it is an on campus program or an online program, can affect the cost of your tuition.

In general, though, there are some national averages. Two-year programs, such as those for earning an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) have a yearly average cost of about $3,000. Four-year programs, such as those for earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), generally charge tuition around $4,700. Those figures, however, are both for public schools. Private colleges charge tuitions that are as much as four times those amounts.

When attending any nursing school, you may be responsible for paying several fees. These may include laboratory fees, which can range from $100 to $200, and license examination fees, which are usually around $150 to $200.

There are also several miscellaneous costs for which you will need to pay. You will likely need to pay a license application fee. The cost of this will depend upon your state, but it will generally be around $150 or so. Your nursing identification needs to be paid for as well, with finger printing and a photo. The cost for this will be around $20 to $30. Then, of course, you will need to purchase books. Expenses for these will vary, but can range anywhere from $300 up to $800 or more per semester. Nursing uniforms may also be a necessary purchase if you are not already working. If you shop around for these, however, you can usually find them for reasonable prices.

Attending nursing school may be costly; however, there is a multitude of financial aid opportunities. Grants, loans, and tuition forgiveness are some of the available prospects. Check with the financial department or bursar of your nursing college to apply, or search online to see your options.

For more information, see www.careerdegreesource.com.