How to Become a Registered Nurse in North Carolina

Q: How long does it take to become a registered nurse in North Carolina?

ADN programs: 2 to 3 years BSN programs: 4 years Diploma programs: 2 to 3 years (less common)

Q: How much do RNs make in North Carolina?

The average RN salary is $86,270/year, based on BLS May 2024 data.

Q: What degree do I need to become an RN?

You need at least an ADN or Diploma, but a BSN is often preferred and required by many employers.

Q: Do I have to take the NCLEX-RN?

Yes. All RNs must pass the NCLEX-RN to become licensed and work legally in the U.S.

Q: Are there RN jobs near me in North Carolina?

Yes. Search for registered nurse jobs near me in NC on hospital websites, job boards, or through MyNextMove.

By Frank AbalosUpdated May 20, 2026

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If you're asking how to become a registered nurse (RN) in North Carolina, here’s the short answer: Complete a state-approved nursing program, pass the NCLEX-RN exam, and apply for licensure through the North Carolina Board of Nursing. RNs in North Carolina earn an average of $86,270/year or $41.48/hour (BLS, May 2024), with career paths available in hospitals, mental health, public health, home care, and education.

Registered Nurse programs for you

Walden University

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Online

Online program from an HLC- accredited institution.
Studying a RN-BSN program aligned with AACN nursing standards.

Financial aid (may be available)

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Colorado Technical University

Master of Science in Nursing

Online

Complete your nursing master's degree online with 5-week class format
Study leadership, change, innovation, and quality outcomes

No cost info

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Colorado Technical University

Master's Degree in Nursing Education

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Complete your nursing education degree online with 5-week class format
Study design, implementation, and evaluation of nursing education

No cost info

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Arizona State University

Nursing (Health Care Innovation), MS

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Learn from notable faculty at the nation's most innovative university.
#2 for employability among U.S. public universities by GEURS.

Financial aid (may be available)

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Key Points

What is a registered nurse? A licensed healthcare professional who provides direct patient care, coordinates treatment, and supports recovery
How much do RNs make in NC? $86,270/year on average
Education needed: Diploma, Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
How long it takes: 2 to 4 years depending on program type
Certification: Must pass the NCLEX-RN exam
Where they work: Hospitals, clinics, schools, mental health centers, home health

What Does a Registered Nurse Do?

Registered nurses (RNs) are essential frontline caregivers who:

Assess patient health and manage care plans
Administer medications and treatments
Educate patients and families on care, prevention, and medications
Work with doctors, specialists, and other nurses
Monitor vital signs and respond to health changes
Document patient information accurately in electronic health records

RNs work in all areas of healthcare—from emergency rooms and ICUs to school clinics, research settings, and mental health programs.

How to Become an RN in North Carolina

To become a licensed RN in North Carolina, follow these steps:

Graduate from an approved nursing program

Choose a Diploma, ADN, or BSN program
Programs must be approved by the NC Board of Nursing
ADN = ~2–3 years; BSN = ~4 years

Apply for licensure with the NC Board of Nursing

Submit proof of graduation and eligibility to work in the U.S.
Undergo a background check and provide fingerprints

Pass the NCLEX-RN

Administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)
This is required in all U.S. states to legally work as an RN

Start applying for RN jobs

Most new grads find work in hospitals, but other options include clinics, rehab centers, and schools

Registered Nurse Salary in North Carolina

Average salary: $86,270/year or $41.48/hour
Entry-level RNs may earn slightly less; experienced RNs or those in specialized fields earn more
High-demand areas include critical care, labor and delivery, and mental health nursing

Where Can Registered Nurses Work?

RNs are needed in nearly every healthcare setting, including:

Hospitals and emergency departments
Outpatient clinics and physician offices
Long-term care and rehabilitation facilities
Public health and community outreach programs
Mental health and behavioral clinics
Schools, universities, and nurse education roles
Telehealth and remote patient monitoring programs

Registered Nurse Programs in North Carolina

You can find RN training across the state through Dreambound, the nation’s largest platform for comparing vocational and healthcare programs.

Search and compare programs by length, cost, location, and format (in-person or hybrid) at Dreambound.

Career Paths After Becoming an RN

After becoming a registered nurse, you can specialize or pursue higher-level roles like:

Nurse Practitioner (NP) – Requires a master’s degree but increases salary and autonomy
Critical Care Nurse – Work in ICUs or trauma units
Mental Health Nurse – Support patients with psychiatric conditions
Pediatric Nurse – Work with infants, children, and adolescents
Public Health Nurse – Serve underserved communities through education and outreach
Nurse Educator – Train future nurses in academic or hospital settings

Each path may require additional certification or training, but can significantly boost your career options and earning potential.

Frequently Asked Questions

More programs to explore

Colorado Technical University

MSN in Nursing Administration

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Complete your nursing administration degree online with 5-week class format
Study leadership, change, innovation, and quality outcomes

No cost info

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How long does it take to become a registered nurse in North Carolina?

ADN programs: 2 to 3 years
BSN programs: 4 years
Diploma programs: 2 to 3 years (less common)

How much do RNs make in North Carolina?

The average RN salary is $86,270/year, based on BLS May 2024 data.

What degree do I need to become an RN?

You need at least an ADN or Diploma, but a BSN is often preferred and required by many employers.

Do I have to take the NCLEX-RN?

Yes. All RNs must pass the NCLEX-RN to become licensed and work legally in the U.S.

Are there RN jobs near me in North Carolina?

Yes. Search for registered nurse jobs near me in NC on hospital websites, job boards, or through MyNextMove.

Final Thoughts

If you're wondering how to become a nurse in North Carolina, here’s your roadmap: complete a state-approved ADN or BSN program, pass the NCLEX-RN, and start applying to RN jobs near you. With an average salary of $86,270/year, high demand, and multiple work environments—from hospitals to home health—this is one of the most stable, rewarding careers in the U.S. healthcare system.

Browse registered nurse programs near you in North Carolina and take the next step today.

Dreambound offers a window into various career paths, so if you're considering a shift in your career, browse through these articles: