How do I choose a nursing school?
When selecting a nursing school there are a number of steps in the process:
- Establish your goals.
- Determine what type of nursing you want to practice.
- Request information from nursing schools.
- Identify state licensing requirements.
- Check school accreditations.
- Visit schools.
- Review cost.
- Speak with school alumni.
Is accreditation important?
Yes! If you want to be confidant that you are receiving the best possible training for your investment, you will likely attend a nursing school that has applied for and received accreditation from qualified agencies. Also, if you want to be eligible for financial aid, the school you attend must be accredited by approved agencies.
What are my prospects for employment once I graduate?
Did you know that by the year 2020, there will be an estimated shortage of 800,000 nurses? Currently there are over 100,000 vacant positions making a nursing career an excellent choice for gainful employment.
Because of the increasing need for nurses, some hospitals and organizations are offering signing bonuses to attract experienced nurses.
What kind of jobs are there for nurses?
There are more nursing employment opportunities than you can imagine. Along with the more visible nursing careers you may be familiar with, there are opportunities in acute care, oncology, psychiatric, pediatric, hospitals, emergency rooms, surgery just to name a few.
For a more complete list with descriptions, check out Nursing Job Descripitions.
