How To Become A Nurse – Nurse Careers

Source:Angelo State
Nurses today are needed more than ever. Our geriatric population is growing by the day and nurses are needed to help in hospitals, hospices and senior communities. Nurse careers are stable jobs and a respectable career choice in society. Many may think it is easy to become a nurse but it does take school and time. With the shortage of nursing educators it is becoming a little harder to get into a nursing program. With that said, however, nurses are needed and a job is guaranteed once you graduate. Here are some facts about becoming a nurse.
Decide What Kind of Nurse You Want To Be
Nursing Assistant, LPN/VN, Registered Nurse
A great way to start your nursing career is to become a Nursing Assistant or Nurse Aid. A nursing assistant only requires coursework and no diploma, so this is an easy way to get into the nursing field. Having this job will better get you into a nursing program and it will provide financial security when applying for a nursing program down the road.
A Licensed Practical or Vocational Nurse (LPN/VN) will work under the supervision of a Doctor or RN. They usually have more skills than a nursing assistant but less skill set than an RN. To become a LPN/VN a year of coursework is required from a vocational or junior college. This will help you in the future if you should decide to become a RN.
A Registered Nurse (RN) requires an Associate’s or Bachelors degree. Several years are required to complete the nursing program. An Associates Degree of Nursing requires 2 years of study while the Bachelors requires 4 years of study.
Where Do I Get My Nursing Degree?
Many colleges offer nursing programs and many schools online offer nursing degrees. It is up to you to choose which modality suits your lifestyle. Make sure that the school you choose is accredited.
California
Biola University
Azusa Pacific University
Texas
Baylor University Louise Herrington School of Nursing
Angelo State University