Since the field of nursing is growing at a fast pace, aspiring nurses need to acquire specialized knowledge and training in order to maintain a competitive edge in the job market. If you are interested in becoming a nurse, you should browse through nursing programs in Pennsylvania that offer the required training for a career in nursing.
Program Listing:
What kinds of programs are available?
Fresh high-school graduates have the option of completing either an Associate’s degree in Nursing, or a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing. The former is a two-year program generally offered by community colleges. It aims to prepare students for entry-level jobs in the market, and focuses on developing the core skills needed to become a nurse.
The Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing is a more rigorous degree. Spread over 4 years, students undergo coursework in nursing, as well as medicine, social sciences, and mathematics. The aim of this degree is to improve critical thinking ability in students, enabling them to respond quickly to the complex challenges of today’s healthcare industry. Furthermore, students learn how to:
- Effectively communicate with their peers and patients
- Adapt their practices in accordance with the age and nature of patient’s complaint
- Develop comprehensive treatment plans for patients in consultation with physicians
- Comfortably use different hospital equipment for the provision of healthcare.
If you are interested in transitioning to the field of nursing from another industry, you can opt for accelerated nursing programs in Pennsylvania which allow students to complete the BSN degree in a shorter time span. Since these degrees are quite intense in terms of the program content and curriculum, they are recommended for those who are serious about switching career paths.
A complete list of schools authorized to teach and award degrees can be found on the State Board of Nursing’s website. Once you’ve completed you degree, you will have to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses. This mandatory test evaluates your readiness for the field and authorizes you to practice your profession legally within the United States.
Job prospects
Pennsylvania alone is home to over 125,000 Registered Nurses, earning a mean annual wage of $65,000 in 2012, according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics. With added expertise, they can increase their salary potential.