Nursing is not just a profession; it’s a calling that offers job security, competitive salaries, and the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives. Start a search today to learn more about nursing degrees and where to get one.
Discover some compelling reasons why pursuing a nursing degree might be the right choice for you. Additionally, explore the many career paths that you may be eligible to explore. The future of healthcare jobs is bright!
Benefits of a Nursing Degree
There are many benefits that can come from having a nursing degree, from job security to career satisfaction, here’s an in-depth look into all the convincing reasons to consider a nursing degree…
Job Security
In a world where job prospects can be uncertain, nursing stands as a beacon of job security. The ongoing nursing shortage only reinforces the value of nursing degrees, ensuring consistent demand for nursing professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the nursing profession is expected to grow by 6% from 2022 to 2032, a trend likely to persist due to the aging population.
Compensation
Nursing is a profession that rewards hard work with competitive compensation. Whether you start as a nursing assistant or aim for senior roles, nurses receive respectable salaries. Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant, for example, involves completing a six-month certification program, opening doors to a median annual salary of $35,760. As you advance in your career and education, your earning potential grows, allowing you to continuously enhance your financial well-being.
Flexibility
While some may associate nursing with grueling hours and demanding shift work, the reality is more flexible. Nursing offers diverse work settings and roles. Not all nurses work night shifts; numerous departments maintain regular business hours. This versatility is a hallmark of a nursing degree, providing opportunities for part-time or full-time work in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, government positions, and even the public sector.
Opportunities in the Healthcare Landscape
Nursing is not just a career; it’s a calling. Nurses find immense fulfillment in knowing that their work directly impacts the well-being of others. Whether in hospitals, nursing homes, administrative roles, research, or teaching positions, nurses are champions of healthcare, making a difference in the lives of patients before, during, and after medical treatment. Beyond the hospital walls, nurses leave a lasting impression, earning gratitude for their kindness and care.
Nursing boasts numerous paths for career advancement, setting it apart from careers with limited growth prospects. Nurses can continually enhance their qualifications. Starting with a basic certification, you can progress from a licensed practical nurse (LPN) to a nurse practitioner or even own your practice.
Educational Requirements
- Certification Programs: The entry point into a nursing career often begins with becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Certification programs for CNAs typically span six months, providing a quick entry into the field. Afterward, you can pursue additional training to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), which offers increased earning potential.
- Associate Degree Nursing: To become a Registered Nurse (RN), the fastest route involves completing a two-year associate degree in nursing (ADN). These programs are available at community colleges, vocational schools, and some universities. Some institutions offer online options, though in-person classes are often necessary to meet practical training requirements.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Registered Nurses can further enhance their qualifications by earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). BSN programs, typically offered as four-year college or university courses, provide more opportunities for career advancement.
- Licensing Exams: In the U.S., nurses must pass the NCLEX-RN licensing exam in addition to meeting various educational and clinical experience requirements. Continuing education is often necessary to maintain licensure.
Career Paths in Nursing
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
CNAs are essential members of the nursing team, assisting with basic patient care tasks. They work alongside nurses, providing services such as bathing, feeding, vital sign monitoring, and light housekeeping. In 2022, CNAs earned a median annual salary of $35,760, with job opportunities projected to grow by 4% between 2022 and 2032.
Licensed Practical Nurse or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LPN/LVN)
LPNs or LVNs complete accredited one-year training programs and pass the NCLEX-PN licensing exam. In 2018, the average salary for LPNs in the United States was approximately $54,620 per year, with the field expected to grow by about 5% over the next decade.
Registered Nurse (RN)
RNs are among the most sought-after professionals in healthcare. In 2022, RNs in the United States earned an average salary of about $81,220 per year, with the field expected to grow by 6% over the next decade.
Nurse Practitioner (NP)
NPs hold a master’s degree (MSN) and are eligible to pursue specialized roles after passing NP credential exams. NPs enjoy higher salaries, with a median income of $121,610 in 2022.
Nurse Anesthetist
Nurse anesthetists specialize after obtaining an MSN and passing the CRNA credential exam. These professionals are well-compensated, with a median salary of approximately $125,900 in 2022.
Start Your Nursing Career Today!
Pursuing a nursing degree is a wise choice for those seeking job stability, personal fulfillment, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. Whether you start as a CNA or aim to become a nurse practitioner, the nursing profession offers a wealth of opportunities for growth and advancement.
Take the first step in your nursing career today by continuing to search online to learn more about nursing degrees and where to enrol.