What are common pathways to becoming a nurse?

Obtaining a nursing license after completing a nursing degree is indeed a central pathway to becoming a nurse. To practice as a nurse, individuals typically need to earn a degree in nursing, such as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and then pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). This process ensures that nurses have the necessary education and skills to provide safe and effective care to patients. The licensing process also serves as a regulatory measure to maintain standards in the nursing profession, making it a crucial step in the journey to becoming a licensed nurse.

Additionally, while volunteering in a hospital or completing nursing-related certificates can provide valuable experience, they do not typically lead directly to becoming a licensed nurse without the formal education and licensing requirements that the correct answer encompasses. Similarly, a political science degree does not relate to nursing pathways and would not provide the necessary training or qualifications required in the healthcare field.