In Need of Nurses

Helping people is one great reason to start a career as a registered nurse, but it's not the only one. Nursing is not only one of the fastest-growing careers in the U.S., but it's also on Money Magazine's list of best jobs.

America's Nursing Shortage

As a result of an aging nursing population, fewer new recruits, and a booming healthcare industry, there are expected to be more than 1.1 million job openings for nurses by 2012. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the second largest number of jobs among all occupations will be in nursing.

One of the biggest changes contributing to the nursing shortage is the impending retirement of many longtime nurses. In March 2004, the average age of registered nurses was 46.8, and only 26.6% of RNs were under age 40.

An Education in Nursing

To become a registered nurse you can earn a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing, an Associate's Degree in Nursing, or a diploma from a hospital-based program. After graduating from an accredited program, you'll need to pass a national licensing exam to earn your nursing license.

Worried about the cost? The need for nurses is so great that the government is providing support for the next generation of nurses through the Nurse Reinvestment Act. This legislation provides funding for nursing student scholarships and loan repayment, making nursing degree programs more affordable than ever.

Online Degrees: Nursing Careers Made Easy

Today, nursing degree programs at all levels are available online. Online nursing programs offer the same quality of education as on-campus degree programs, with the added convenience of working online.

If you think you have what it takes to become a nurse, earn your nursing degree online and you'll find yourself with some of the best job opportunities out there.

Sources

• American Nurses Association, "Nursing Facts: Today's Registered Nurse--Numbers and Demographics"
• American Nurses Association, "Nursing Facts: Nursing Shortage"
• Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook "Registered Nurses"
• Money Magazine, "Money Magazine's Best Jobs: Register nurse"

About the Author
Jessica Phillips is a freelance writer who has covered education, finance, insurance, and media.