The NP licensing form indicates that the degree awarded from the 'advanced' school could be a certificate or BA. The education requirements for the RN license are listed in the RN app and mention offering an explanation in writing if you do not have a two year nursing degree.

http://www.maine.gov/boardofnursing/...pplication.pdf

ETA: If you lived here, you'd find it less hard to believe. You can also be a lawyer without a law degree here. Getting a teaching license requires a lot of schooling, but there's a huge loophole built in so many people just work under 'emergency' waivers for years.