How to Become a Nurse in Maryland? Various Pathways to a Nursing Career

In Maryland, the nursing profession is both the largest sector within the health care industry and one of its most rapidly expanding fields. As of 2020, reports show there were 71,390 registered nurses employed in the state, with projections indicating an increase to 83,710 by 2030—a 17% growth.  

Despite this growth, Maryland faces a significant nursing shortage.  A report shows projections suggest that by 2035, the state will require an additional 13,800 registered nurses and 9,200 licensed practical nurses to meet health care demands. From forensic nursing to labor and delivery nursing, there are various pathways for nurses to choose from. 

What Type of Education Is Needed to Become a Nurse? 

The type and level of education you need varies based on your career interests and current experience. You can begin a health care career with less than one year of education by completing a certified nursing assistant (CNA) certificate, two years to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN), or obtain a bachelor’s degree within four years to become a registered nurse (RN/BSN). 

How to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) 

CNAs help patients with their basic health care needs, often under the supervision of a nurse, according to Baltimore City Community College. CNA certificates can be completed within one year through an associate program in Maryland community colleges. 

Celebrating 19 years as a patient care technician/CNA, Juliet says, “Way back in Jamaica years ago, by taking care of my mom, I decided I wanted to be a nurse.

In the labor and delivery unit,” Juliet says, “It’s a lot of running around but when you’re finished, it’s well worth it.”  

Learn more about Juliet’s experience on this day in life in the video here. 

How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) 

LPNs have a passion for helping others and bringing out the best in any situation. 

LPNs provide basic medical care under the supervision of registered nurses and doctors. They monitor patients’ health, administer basic patient care, and provide for the comfort of patients, and can be achieved through a certificate at a community college, according to Montgomery College. 

“You can start out with two years and then come and work for the hospital and you can take online classes and finish a four-year degree,” says Helen, RN, BSN, assistant nurse manager at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center. 

“In order to grow in the hospital, especially to work in a hospital, you need a four-year degree in order to go into the management position and in order to grow. So I went straight to a four-year degree.” 

Learn more about Helen’s experience in this employee spotlight here. 

How to Become a Nurse in Maryland?  

From nursing student to full-time nurse, Tyler wasn’t sure how he could get into nursing with no health care experience.  

“I would say that if you’re interested in going into health care, even if you have no experience, go for it because you’ll be entering a great career field where you can make a real difference in people’s lives,” says Tyler, a nurse at University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center and graduate of CCBC.

Find a nursing program that fits you and your goals at JoinMdHealth.org/Education. 

Maryland hospitals are hiring now! Learn more about career opportunities at JoinMdHealth.org/education.