Nursing schools train students in patient care, evidence-based practice, and nursing specialties. After earning an accredited nursing degree, graduates earn their RN license and pursue nursing careers.
A bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) prepares graduates for high-paying careers in many nursing specialties. During a BSN program, learners gain hands-on clinical skills while strengthening their nursing leadership skills. Many BSN programs offer an accelerated RN-to-BSN path for current nurses and admit students new to nursing.
Our guide of nursing programs by state helps students find a nursing program that matches their schedule, budget, and goals.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing Schools
Q. What is the difference between an RN and a BSN?
A registered nurse (RN) meets the requirements to become a nurse in doctors' offices and hospitals. A BSN meets the educational requirements to earn an RN license.
Q. What degree do I need to become a nurse?
A nursing diploma, associate of science in nursing (ASN), or BSN meet the requirements to become an RN. RNs with a two-year degree can enroll in an RN-to-BSN program to complete a bachelor's degree.
Q. What kind of nurses get paid the most?
Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) report the highest salaries. Examples include nurse practitioners and nurse anesthetists. These nursing careers require a master's degree.
Why Get a Nursing Degree?
Nurses benefit from a positive job outlook. With a high earning potential and strong demand, nursing careers pay off. Prospective nurses can enter the field with a two-year degree. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nursing will add over 275,000 new jobs between 2020-2030.
Many nursing programs feature online classes, appealing to busy students and those who prefer a flexible schedule. 电竞赚钱决赛积分(电竞赚钱详情登录) nursing students complete coursework through a distance learning system while meeting clinical requirements locally. Students who find a fully online nursing program do not need to search nursing programs by state.
How Much Does a Nursing Degree Cost?
Nursing degrees cost $2,500-$100,000, depending on the degree level and school. Many nurses start their career with a two-year ASN or diploma at a community college or hospital. According to National Center for Education Statistics 2019-2020 data, community college tuition and fees average $3,380 per year. The cheapest community colleges in California cost $1,270 per year.
A four-year BSN averages $9,350 per year at in-state public colleges or $32,770 per year at private colleges. Besides tuition, nursing students pay for textbooks, living expenses, lab fees, and other nursing supplies.
How Much Do Nursing Degree Majors Make?
Nursing careers are in-demand and pay above-average salaries, making a nursing degree a good investment. With an ASN or BSN, graduates work as registered nurses . RNs earn a median annual salary of over $75,000. The BLS projects 9% job growth from 2020-2030.
Salaries vary by specialty, location, and experience. Some nursing specialties offer above-average nursing salaries. High cost of living states tend to pay more. Like other careers, nurses typically earn higher salaries as they gain experience. Advanced degrees increase nurses' earning potential. Nurse practitioners and nurse anesthetists earn a median salary of $117,670 annually.
Courses in Nursing
Nursing classes teach foundational knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology. Students take classes designed to build nursing skills. Courses in proven practice and health assessment train nurses to evaluate information, care for patients, and improve health outcomes. Many programs include specialized courses. Examples include pediatric nursing, geriatric nursing, and medical surgical nursing.
Nursing programs require practicum hours and hospital rotations to strengthen clinical skills. Labs, simulations, and other experiential learning prepare nursing students for future careers. This section introduces common nursing courses.
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Health Assessment -
Community Health Nursing -
Medical-Surgical Nursing
Nursing Specializations
Nurses can specialize in emergency care, neonatal nursing, and cardiovascular care. Many nursing programs train learners in specializations. Students who do not find a nursing program with specializations can focus their education with electives and clinical training.
Specializing gives nursing students the knowledge and skills needed for focused career paths. Many nurses earn certifications in their specialty area. This section introduces possible nursing specializations.
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Critical Care -
Pediatrics -
Perioperative Care
How to Become a Nurse
Nurses enter the profession with various educational backgrounds. Registered nurses earn their nursing license with an ASN or nursing diploma. Nurses can advance by earning a BSN. Prospective nurses can search nursing programs by state or enroll in an online program.
During a nursing program, learners study human anatomy, proven nursing practices, and patient care. In addition to coursework, nurses complete rotations in medical settings. After their nursing program, graduates take the NCLEX-RN exam to earn licensure.
RNs gain experience working in doctors' offices, outpatient clinics, and hospitals. With experience, nurses move into specialized and leadership roles. Nurses can also pursue graduate degrees.
Licensure for Nursing
Nurses must hold a state board-issued nursing license. Requirements vary by state.
RNs must complete an accredited nursing program with state approval. RN license candidates must also pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Some states require a criminal background check or drug testing. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing lists information on licensure requirements and nursing programs by state.
Besides RN licensure, nurses may also hold licensure as a certified nurse assistant (CNA), licensed practical nurse (LPN), or APRN. These licenses feature different education and testing requirements. LPNs typically complete a 1-2 year program and take the NCLEX-PN exam. APRNs earn a graduate degree in nursing and pursue national certification.
Because the requirements vary by nursing degree and type, prospective nurses should research the licensure process in their state.