How Hard is Nursing School and How do I Survive

Nursing can be a rewarding profession, but it is no secret that the journey to becoming a nurse is demanding. If you are asking yourself, "How hard is nursing school?" you are not alone.

The good news is that while nursing school is rigorous, it is also achievable, especially with the right preparation, support, and mindset.

You will learn what makes nursing school challenging, what to expect in terms of coursework and time commitments, and practical strategies to help you not only survive but thrive on your nursing journey.

Nursing Programs

What Are the Requirements for Getting Into Nursing School?

Before you can start nursing school, you will need to meet specific admission requirements. These vary by program, but most schools look for a combination of academic preparation and personal readiness.

Typical nursing school requirements include:

• High school diploma or GED with strong performance in math and science courses, such as biology and chemistry.
• College entrance exams (such as the SAT, ACT, or TEAS test), depending on the program.
• Students entering a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program are required to take prerequisite college courses, such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and statistics.

Beyond the academics, nursing schools also value qualities such as compassion, resilience, and problem-solving ability. After all, nursing is not only about science-it is also about caring for people during their most vulnerable moments.

What Types of Nursing Programs and Degrees Are Available?

Nursing is not a one-size-fits-all field, and neither are nursing programs. Depending on your career goals, you can pursue different educational paths:¹

• Licensed practical nurse (LPN) or licensed vocational nurse (LVN) programs: These typically take 12 to 18 months and prepare you for entry-level patient care.
• Associate degree in nursing (ADN): A two-year degree that qualifies you to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and become a registered nurse.
• Bachelor of science in nursing: A four-year degree that provides more in-depth training and opens the door to leadership roles, advanced practice, and graduate education.
• Accelerated BSN programs: Designed for students who already hold a bachelor's in another field and want to transition into nursing more quickly.
• Master's and doctoral programs: For nurses pursuing advanced practice roles such as nurse practitioners, nurse educators, or nurse anesthetists.

Each pathway has its own level of rigor, but all are designed to prepare you for safe, effective patient care.

What Courses Do You Study In Nursing School?

Nursing school coursework blends science, theory, and hands-on practice. Your studies will include general education, nursing-specific classes, and clinical rotations.

Some of the core subjects you can expect to cover include:

• Anatomy and physiology: Understanding the human body-from the cellular level to organ systems.
• Pharmacology: Learning about medications, their effects, and safe administration.
• Pathophysiology: Studying how diseases affect the body.
• Nursing fundamentals and skills: Hands-on training in patient care techniques.
• Mental health nursing: Exploring how to care for patients with psychiatric conditions.
  Pediatrics, maternity, and geriatrics: Specialized courses in caring for diverse patient populations.
• Clinical rotations: Real-world experience in hospitals, clinics, and community settings under supervision.

The combination of classroom learning and clinical practice ensures you not only know the material but also understand how to apply it in high-pressure, real-world situations.

How Hard is RN Schooling? Three Pieces of Advice for Aspiring Nurses

So, how hard is nursing school really? Here is the short answer: It is challenging, but manageable if you are prepared.

Here are three practical tips to help you succeed:

1. Stay Organized

Nursing programs move quickly, and you will juggle lectures, labs, exams, and clinicals all at once. Use a planner or digital calendar to map out deadlines, shifts, and study blocks.

2. Find Your Support System

Nursing school is intense, but you do not have to go it alone. Build connections with classmates, lean on family or friends, and seek guidance from faculty mentors.

Study groups are especially valuable for working through difficult material.

3. Prioritize Self-Care

Between long hours of studying and clinicals, it is easy to put your own health last. However, it is important to make time for sleep, balanced meals, and stress-relieving activities such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies. This will help you maintain your energy and a positive mindset.

How Nursing School Differs from Other Majors

One of the reasons why nursing feels harder than some other majors is its unique structure. Unlike a typical college program, nursing education does not stop at lectures and exams.

Here is a look at some of the key differences you will experience:

• Clinical requirements: Hands-on patient care is mandatory, often starting in your first year.
• Licensing exams: Unlike many majors, nursing requires passing the NCLEX-RN to officially practice.
• Greater time demands: Between labs, clinicals, and coursework, nursing students often log more hours per week than peers in other programs.

These differences may feel daunting now, but by graduation, you will be prepared to step into a fast-paced, high-responsibility nursing career.

Time Commitment Breakdown: Weekly Expectations

We mentioned the difference in time commitment, but what does that look like in practice? How much time does nursing school take?

While every program is different, here is a general idea of what you can expect each week in a full-time BSN program:

• Classroom learning: 12 to 18 hours
• Labs and clinicals: 16 to 24 hours
• Study and homework: 20 to 30 hours

In total, many students dedicate 40 to 60 hours per week to their program-similar to working a full-time job.

Nursing School is Hard, But You Can Do It With Alliant

If you are preparing for a career in nursing, it is important to understand what your education will likely require. The coursework is dense, the hours are long, and the expectations are high. However, if you are called to serve others in a career that can change lives, your efforts will be well worth the reward.

At Alliant, our nursing programs are designed to give you the knowledge, hands-on experience, and mentorship you need to succeed in this demanding field. We are here to help you navigate the challenges of nursing school and guide you toward a career where you can truly make a difference.

Reach out today to learn more about our nursing programs.

Sources:

• Smith-Kimble, Courtney. "Types of Nursing Degrees and Levels." December 5, 2022. https://nursejournal.org/degrees/types-of-nursing-degrees/. Accessed August 18, 2025.
  

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