As a nurse, you don’t need anyone to tell you that nursing can be a rewarding but highly stressful job that can make you prone to burnout. But you might be surprised to learn that even though 95% of surveyed nurses said they’re glad they became a nurse,
if job security is a priority for you, you’ll be happy to know that nursing is a career with a bright future. In addition, the Department of Labor projects that more than one million new and replacement registered nurses will be needed by 2018.
By choosing a career-focused college major like nursing, you’ll be preparing for a future of endless learning and growth potential.
Choosing the Right Program for You
As a high school student considering a nursing career, you have three main options once you graduate. First, you can earn a practical nursing diploma and become a licensed practical nurse (L.P.N.), also known as a licensed vocational nurse (L.V.N.)
You can earn either an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree and become a registered nurse (R.N.). Generally, the more education you complete, the more opportunities you’ll have.
Practical Nursing Training
You can earn a diploma in licensed practical nursing in approximately one year. You’ll balance practical experience in hospitals and other settings with coursework in everything from anatomy to nutrition. Once you graduate and pass an exam, you’ll be qualified to provide some care directly to patients. You’ll also assist R.N.s and doctors.
The A.D.N.
If you’re willing to attend college for two to three years, you can earn an associate degree in nursing (A.D.N.). During their added schooling, A.D.N. students pick up related courses, such as microbiology; take more specialized nursing courses, such as geriatric nursing; and spend long hours in each class.
With an A.D.N. from a two-year college, you’ll be able to provide direct patient care in many settings. Some hospital nursing schools, colleges, and universities also offer A.D.N. programs.
The B.S.N.
If you want the most options, including graduate school later on in your career, consider a bachelor of science degree in nursing (B.S./B.S.N.). This four-year program prepares nurses to practice in all healthcare settings.
As a B.S.N. student, you’ll have more time to develop communication, critical thinking, and leadership skills. But, of course, you’ll also take more advanced nursing courses, studying such subjects as complex illnesses and perhaps conducting your scientific research.
Getting There
Prepare now for a future in nursing. Start by reading these major profiles:
- Nursing (R.N.)
- Practical Nursing
- Prenursing Studies
You can also learn about the working life of nurses in these career profiles:
- Advanced-Practice Nurses
- Licensed Practical Nurses
- Registered Nurses
If you are thinking about nursing school, you should know a few things. First, nursing is a great career choice. Nurses make a difference in the lives of their patients and their families. Nurses also enjoy good job security and salaries.
Second, nursing school is not easy. It takes hard work and dedication to become a nurse. But the rewards are worth it. Nurses are satisfied with helping others, and they enjoy good working conditions and salaries.
Third, nursing school can be expensive. But there are ways to finance your education. For example, nursing scholarships are available, and many hospitals offer tuition reimbursement programs for nurses who work for them.
So if you are thinking about nursing school, be sure to do your research first. Then, learn as much as you can about the profession and the schooling required to become a nurse.
