Become a Nurse In Maryland: Requirements, Licensing, and Employment Outlook

Students can choose a 12-18 months diploma program that prepares them to become licensed practical nurses (LPNs). You can also decide to complete a two-year associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a four-year bachelor of science in nursing (BSN)to become a registered nurse (RN).

The RN license is the most popular, opening more career opportunities and allowing for competitive salaries.

Before applying to a nursing program, a high school diploma or GED certificate is required. Depending on the school, those who choose the ADN or BSN path must complete several undergraduate courses in relevant fields. Examples of courses include:

• Microbiology
• Anatomy and physiology
• Statistics
• Psychology
• Nutrition
• Pharmacology

Nursing schools in Maryland and their education programs are designed to prepare nursing students to deliver care efficiently and safely. Curricula may vary depending on the route taken. For example, because LPN programs are shorter in duration, these students receive less training than ADN or BSN students.

LPN programs focus on basic nursing skills and caring for the patient. LPNs also work under the supervision of an RN.

An ADN program emphasizes the fundamentals of patient care, while BSN programs offer additional classes in research and leadership.

All three nursing programs teach students essential nursing skills, with the level of detail of training becoming more complex and individualized as the programs get longer.

Students receive hands-on practical experience through clinicals at various settings like the hospital and outpatient clinics. They also gain experience in nursing simulation labs.

LPNs take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) , while ADN and BSN-prepared nurses take the NCLEX-RN.

The MSN program must be recognized by the MBON and accredited by an agency approved by the U.S. Department of Education and/or the Council of Higher Education Accreditation.

To fulfill your nursing license requirements in Maryland, prospective graduate students must complete all advanced degree nursing courses, and sit for their national board exam related to their specialty.

Once you pass your boards, graduate nurses receive their license through the MBON.

Graduate nurses become certified in their desired speciality by passing their state board exams.

Although not a comprehensive list, you must become certified in one of the following nationally recognized certification agencies. For a complete list visit your state board of nursing.

• The American Nurses Credentialing Center, which recognizes the adult nurse practitioner, acute care nurse practitioner, gerontological nurse practitioner, family nurse practitioner, adult psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, pediatric nurse practitioner, and the family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
• The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Boards, which recognizes the adult nurse practitioner and the adult-gerontology primary care NP.
• The American Midwifery Certification Board, which recognizes the certified nurse-midwife.

The National Board on Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists, which recognizes the certified registered nurse anesthetist.

• The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses, which recognizes the acute care nurse practitioner.
• The National Certification Corporation for the Obstetric, Gynecologic and Neonatal Nursing Specialties, which recognizes the women’s health nurse practitioner and the neonatal nurse practitioner.
• The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board, which recognizes the pediatric nurse practitioner.

Each specialty application requires several supplemental documents. It will usually take around four weeks for processing to be completed, and your status can be viewed online. You will not receive a paper copy of your license.

In Maryland, APRNs may renew their certifications every two years with their RN license as long as they meet certain criteria. It is important to review MBON and your certification agency for up to date requirements. Certification renewal requirements vary by state.