There are loads of programs out there. No matter which way you go (2-4yr. degree) I suggest you get all your prereq. courses out of the way first. I think you can work and complete school as long as there is weekend work available for you and your employer will work with you. Check with some hospitals in your area to inquire about nurse extern programs. They will pay your way through school but you will owe them some time afterwards. There are scholarships and money out there for you but you have to inquire. The best place to start is with the hospital where you might want to work and then the local community college. Surf the net, too. I'll e-mail you if I run into anything. There is no shame in starting with your LVN or LPN as I know it. Just make sure there are jobs for you if you take your LVN first. In some areas that degree is being phased out. I would suggest going to a 2yr. program ADN. Then as soon as you have a year or two under your belt or sooner, get thee back to get your BSN. There are some great "On-line" programs and RN to BSN at your local university. Good Luck!