If you’re thinking about nursing school, you might be wondering if it’s feasible to work while studying nursing. After all, bills and everyday expenses don’t go away when classes begin. While balancing a job and nursing school may require some extra consideration, it’s doable if you make a plan and work hard.
In this article, we’ll go over the realities of working while in nursing school and share practical tips you can use to balance both commitments.
Can You Work While in Nursing School?
Yes, you can work while in nursing school. It will take focus and dedication, but it’s certainly possible if you prioritize your studies and make a realistic schedule.
At the same time, it’s important to recognize that classes, skills labs, clinical rotations, and study time will take significant time and energy. Having a flexible job with manageable hours can help you keep up with schoolwork while continuing to bring in a paycheck.
For example, ACC–Los Angeles alumnus Shawn Butler continued working as a licensed vocational nurse (LVN) as he pursued his Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). Not only did his schedule allow time for studying, but he was even able to use the new skills he learned at school in his role.
“I work three days a week so if I wasn't in clinical or in the classroom, I was able to apply whatever it was that I was learning at work,” Butler said.
What Nursing Program Should You Choose?
The nursing program you choose may affect how much you’re able to work. Here are the different options and timelines for each one:
Licensed Vocational Nursing
A licensed vocational nursing (LVN) program is an entry-level pathway into the nursing field. It takes about 1 year to earn an LVN certificate or diploma.
Some programs may offer more flexibility for students who need to work or balance other responsibilities while in nursing school. For example, American Career College offers a Vocational Nursing Evenings and Weekends program, which is spread over 18 months with classes 2 nights per week, plus weekends.
In an LVN program, you learn basic nursing fundamentals and practice clinical skills in real-world settings. After you graduate, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to get licensed.
Associate Degree in Nursing
Earning an Associate Degree in Nursing is one pathway to becoming a registered nurse (RN). Generally, you can complete an ADN program in around 2 years. American Career College’s ADN program utilizes a blended learning format with some classes offered online, taking approximately 20 months to complete.
An ADN program includes both classroom learning and clinical training in preparation for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). As you progress throughout the program, you’ll spend more time in simulation labs and real healthcare facilities, learning how to use your new skills while caring for patients. You may need to work fewer hours during clinical rotations to make time for this essential training.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a traditional four-year degree program. Similar to an ADN program, a BSN helps you prepare to take the NCLEX-RN and become a licensed registered nurse.
Since earning a BSN takes longer than other pathways into nursing, it’s worth considering how soon you want to begin working as a nurse. If your goal is to enter the occupation more quickly, an LVN or an ADN program may be a better option.
Many nurses start their careers with an LVN or ADN program before continuing their education later. That was the ideal path for ACC–Orange County alumnus Nikolas N., who completed the Vocational Nursing program to get some experience before enrolling at ACC’s sister school, West Coast University. He later graduated with his BSN, all while working full-time as a vocational nurse.
“That was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made in my life," he said. "I would recommend for almost everyone to go through the VN first because that gives you the discipline you need to excel in [a] very demanding program.”
Tips for Working While in Nursing School
Even with careful planning and preparation, there may be times when it feels extremely challenging to balance a job with nursing school. Here are some tips for working while in a nursing program:
- Find a flexible role: A job with flexible hours or shifts may be easier to manage while in nursing school. Look for roles that allow you to have some choice in when you work, such as a part-time retail job or freelance gigs.
- Start with fewer hours: If you can, work fewer hours at the start of a nursing program or the beginning of each semester, so you can get a feel for the pace of coursework and clinicals. You can add more work hours later once you’re used to the new schedule.
- Create a study routine: Going to nursing school is a big commitment, so stay on top of your studies with a set routine. Each week, plan for study time, exam preparation, classes, clinicals, and labs in a way that works for you.
- Practice stress management: Use techniques like exercise, deep breathing, or meditation to relieve stress when you’re feeling overwhelmed with the demands of work and school. Finding ways to manage stress can help you avoid burnout and continue working toward your goals.
It may be difficult to work and go to nursing school at the same time, but remembering your goals can make the challenges worth it. Just take it from ACC–Ontario alumna Veronica M.
“If you have a goal and a dream, go for it,” she said. “The sacrifices are worth it. Don’t let anyone tell you no — only you know what you’re capable of.”
Balance Work and Nursing School at American Career College
Working while in nursing school requires planning, routine, and hard work. But it’s possible if you set realistic expectations and prioritize your studies. Choose a program that allows you to balance work with while committing to classes, clinicals, and labs. With the right schedule, you can work toward your goals while keeping up with other responsibilities.
American Career College offers flexible programs for students who want to pursue nursing school while continuing to work. Our Vocational Nursing program includes an Evenings and Weekends pathway, which can be helpful for students who work during the day. If you decide to work toward an associate degree, our ADN program blends online and in-person classes with clinical training for additional flexibility and support.
If you want to know more about program schedules, degree timelines, or student support services, reach out to request more information!
