What You Should Know About Becoming A Registered Nurse
Have you been thinking about going to college to earn your nursing degree?
Becoming a registered nurse can be a rewarding and lucrative career choice. Plus, getting your degree may not take as long as you might think.
Today, there are accelerated nursing programs that help you get your degree and find a job much faster than traditional college programs.
If you’re wondering if nursing is right for you, read on to learn more about it.
5 Facts That You Should Know About Nursing
The benefits to obtaining your nursing degree are numerous. But, if you’re still on the fence about entering a college nursing program, here are 5 facts to help you decide.
1. How Much Money Do Nurses Make?
In 2016, the median pay for a registered nurse was $68,450 per year, or $32.91 per hour. This considerable salary is well above average.
2. How Many Nursing Jobs Are Out There?
According to the US Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor and Statistics, in 2014 there were 2,751,000 nursing jobs in the United States.
They also show that between 2014 and 2024, you can expect an additional 439,300 jobs to open up.
3. Job Outlook and Predicted Growth Rate for Nurses
The US Department of Labor claims a 16% job growth rate according to the same statistical data referenced above, which is much faster than the national average.
Some states show an even greater potential growth that the national percentage.
In Ohio, the growth rate for 2014 to 2024 is expected to be 20% or greater. In Kentucky, that number climbs all the way to 27%.
4. Hours and Availability of Nurses
Nurses have the unique option of working a variety of shifts, since their services are required 24 hours a day.
This provides the benefit of increased flexibility for many nurses who prefer odd hours or have demands outside of work.
Many nurses choose a schedule that gives them a greater stretch of days off. This allows you to have one week off at a time to spend time with your family or travel.
You can also choose to work nights, weekends and holidays. Sometimes, these odd schedules offer higher pay or other incentives for nurses working these shifts.
5. How Long Does it Take to Become a Nurse?
Now, you can become a practical nurse in just one year.
To become registered takes a little longer, although not as long as you might expect.
There are alternative routes to graduation that allow you to work in nursing and complete your degree online in as little as 18 months.
In today’s world, you could be finished with your registered nursing degree in just a couple of years.
Are You Ready to Become a Registered Nurse?
Beckfield College’s nursing programs don’t require lengthy pre-requisites. Even better, there’s currently no waiting list when you apply.
The college courses are designed to help you head straight from the classroom to the field as soon as you graduate.
You can even complete the practical nursing degree tract first. That way, you can get into the field faster. Then, you can take your registered nursing courses online at your convenience.
So, what are you waiting for?
Stop waiting, and start on your path to a meaningful and fulfilling career as a registered nurse today. Click here to apply now.
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