There are over 4 million Registered Nurses in the United States (National Council of State Boards of Nursing, 2019). To become a practicing registered nurse, one must graduate from approved educational program, pass a licensure examination, and meet the requirements of licensure in their state of residence. Despite a common licensure examination, the educational pathways to becoming a nurse are varied and often confusing to prospective students and those professionals who practice beside nurses in the healthcare arena. Outside factors, such as the 2010 recommendation by the Institute of Medicine for 80% of nurses to be prepared at the baccalaureate level, have influenced educational models and hiring practice. The purpose of this paper is to advance knowledge of nursing education in the United States, explore factors influencing the current nursing education model, and challenge assumptions for the future of nursing education.