There are several programs to become a nurse.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nursing opportunities are excellent. Projections show nursing is expected to grow by 22 percent from 2008 to 2018. Nurses provide patient care and education. They advocate for patients and provide support to patient families. As of May 2008, nurses earn a median salary of $62,450. Students utilize various routes on their journey to a nursing career.
Traditional Nursing Route
There exist three usual paths to a nursing career. These include associate's degree nursing programs, bachelor's degree programs and diploma programs. Students learn anatomy, physiology, pharmacology and patient care techniques. Junior and community colleges offer associate's degree nursing programs. These last two to three years. Bachelor's degree programs are found in colleges and universities. These programs culminate in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree (BSN) and span four years. Diploma programs award graduates a diploma identifying program completion. Usually, these take three years to finish. Graduates of all programs qualify to take the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX).
Accelerated Nursing Programs
Accelerated programs allow students to switch their careers to nursing. According to the BLS, students already holding a bachelor's degree in a field other than nursing enroll in an accelerated program lasting 12 to 18 months. MSN programs last two years and award a master's degree in nursing. The curriculum for accelerated programs includes clinical experience providing patient care in hospitals and clinics. Students take courses in science, psychology and nursing.
Paramedic to RN
Paramedics transition to nursing through a bridge program. In these programs, paramedics earn an associate's degree. Program completion enables them to test for their license by taking the NCLEX. According to the Education-Portal website, programs often last one to two years. Program entry requires certification of licensure as a paramedic along with a high school diploma. Curriculum builds upon paramedics' working body of health knowledge.
LVN to RN
Licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) take care of sick and injured patients. They work under RNs' supervision. LVNs' median annual salary is $39,030 as of May 2008. LVNs completing RN training and licensure boost their salaries along with their skill sets. LVNs enter RN bridge programs that often result in an associate's degree. They are then eligible to take the NCLEX after completing the program.
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