How to Become a Registered Nurse (RN) in Maryland

Registered nurses form the backbone of Maryland's patient care delivery system, combining clinical expertise with compassionate care across diverse medical settings. From Baltimore's world-renowned hospitals to community health centers in rural counties, RNs play an instrumental role in shaping health outcomes for Maryland residents.

The path to becoming a registered nurse in Maryland offers multiple entry points, whether through associate or bachelor's degree programs, with opportunities to specialize in areas like pediatrics, emergency care, or oncology. Maryland's position in the bustling Mid-Atlantic region, combined with its high concentration of prestigious medical institutions, creates a dynamic environment for nurses to build rewarding careers while making meaningful impacts in their communities.

Key Points  

• Maryland employs 49,770 registered nurses, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.  
• The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 6% growth in RN employment nationwide between 2023 and 2033, with 194,500 job openings annually.  
• Maryland requires graduation from a Maryland Board of Nursing-approved program to qualify for licensure.  
• Leading employers in Maryland include Johns Hopkins Health System and the University of Maryland Medical System.  

What is a Registered Nurse (RN)?

Registered nurses are licensed professionals who provide critical patient care, administer treatments, and monitor health conditions. They work collaboratively with physicians, therapists, and other health care professionals to create and implement care plans.  

RNs may specialize in fields such as pediatrics, oncology, or critical care, tailoring their skills to meet patient needs in specific areas. Empathy, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential traits for success in this role.  

Tasks commonly performed include monitoring vital signs, maintaining detailed records, and providing health care in diverse settings like hospitals, schools, and outpatient centers.  

Steps to Become a Registered Nurse (RN) in Maryland

Step 1: Complete a Registered Nurse (RN) Program

Graduating from an approved nursing program is mandatory for licensure in Maryland. Programs are offered at community colleges, universities, and nursing schools statewide.  

Educational Pathways

Several degree options are available in Maryland to become an RN:  

• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): Two-year programs offered by institutions such as Anne Arundel Community College. They focus on foundational nursing skills and prepare graduates for entry-level roles.  
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Four-year degrees provided by universities like the University of Maryland School of Nursing. BSN programs offer expanded training, including leadership and public health.  
• Accelerated BSN: Designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in another field. Programs such as those at Notre Dame of Maryland University can be completed in 12 to 18 months.  
• Direct-Entry MSN: For those pursuing advanced roles, this graduate-level option accelerates entry into specialized nursing positions.  

Accreditation and Clinical Training

Programs must be accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Accreditation ensures eligibility for the NCLEX-RN exam and meets Maryland Board of Nursing standards.  

Clinical rotations are integral to nursing education. Hospitals such as Johns Hopkins Hospital and MedStar Health facilities often serve as clinical sites, providing experience in real-world patient care settings.  

Step 2: Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

The National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) is required for Maryland licensure.  

How to Register and Prepare

• Registration: Register through Pearson VUE, pay the $200 fee, and wait for authorization to test (ATT) from the Maryland Board of Nursing.  
• Exam Content: The NCLEX-RN evaluates nursing knowledge and critical thinking skills. Questions cover topics such as pharmacology, patient management, and health promotion.  
• Preparation Resources: Use NCLEX review books, online practice tests, and study courses. Programs like Kaplan and Hurst Review offer structured preparation.  

Success on the NCLEX-RN demonstrates readiness to provide safe and effective care as a licensed RN.  

Step 3: Apply for RN Licensure in Maryland

The Maryland Board of Nursing (MBON) oversees the licensing process.  

Requirements

• Application: Submit an online application through the MBON portal and pay the $100 application fee.  
• Criminal Background Check: Complete a state and federal background check with fingerprinting.  
• Transcripts: Request official transcripts from your nursing program to verify graduation eligibility.  
• Proof of Work Authorization: Provide documentation verifying legal employment eligibility in the United States.  

Multistate Licensure

Maryland participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). RNs with a multistate license can work in other NLC-participating states without additional licensure.  

Step 4: Start a Career as a Registered Nurse

Newly licensed RNs can explore numerous opportunities within Maryland’s health care system.  

Employment Sectors

Registered nurses in Maryland work in general hospitals, outpatient clinics, long-term care facilities, and home health care services. Employers such as Johns Hopkins Health System and LifeBridge Health offer positions in specialized areas like surgical nursing, pediatrics, and geriatrics.  

Salary Information

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, RNs in Maryland earn an average annual salary of $92,090. Specializations and advanced certifications can lead to higher earning potential.  

Residency Programs

Many hospitals, including MedStar Health and Adventist HealthCare, provide residency programs for newly licensed RNs. These programs offer mentorship and additional training to help nurses transition into their roles.  

Step 5: Maintain Licensure as a Registered Nurse

The Maryland Board of Nursing requires RNs to renew their licenses every two years.  

Renewal Requirements

1. Complete 30 contact hours of continuing education from an approved provider.  
2. Submit a renewal application and pay the $146 renewal fee.  
3. Maintain compliance with state and federal laws governing nursing practice.  

Continuing education ensures that RNs stay informed about advancements in patient care, safety protocols, and emerging technologies.  

Licensure in Maryland

Licensure requirements in Maryland include graduation from a state-approved nursing program, passing the NCLEX-RN, and undergoing a criminal background check. Out-of-state programs must meet Maryland’s standards. Detailed licensure requirements can be found here.  

How Much Do Registered Nurses Make in Maryland?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that Maryland RNs earn an average hourly wage of $44.27, with an annual mean salary of $92,090. Earning potential may vary depending on experience, specialization, and location within the state.  

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Completing an ADN program typically takes two years, while a BSN program requires four years. Accelerated BSN programs can be completed in 12 to 18 months for those with a prior degree.  

What is a 2-year RN called?  

A 2-year RN is a registered nurse who has earned an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN).  

What are the benefits of joining professional nursing organizations in Maryland?  

Organizations like the Maryland Nurses Association provide networking opportunities, advocacy resources, and access to continuing education courses.  

Is Maryland a good state for new nursing graduates?  

Maryland offers robust job prospects, competitive salaries, and opportunities for advancement, making it an appealing state for new RNs.

Starting Your Nursing Journey in Maryland

Maryland's diverse health care landscape offers RNs the chance to work with leading medical researchers, participate in groundbreaking clinical trials, and serve in specialized units across renowned medical institutions. The state's proximity to federal agencies and research facilities creates unique opportunities for nurses interested in public health initiatives or medical research.

Whether you're drawn to the fast-paced environment of urban trauma centers or the personalized care setting of community health clinics, take the first step by researching MBON-approved nursing programs that align with your career goals. Contact program advisors, attend information sessions, and connect with current nursing students to gain valuable insights into your future profession.