Nursing Career Outlook
Did you know that the Bureau of Labor Statistics cites Registered Nurse as the largest healthcare occupation? In fact, the BLS expects the number of new nursing jobs to grow by 22% between 2008 and 2018.
In fact, more than 581,000 new jobs are expected in that timeframe. If you're interested in being one of the thousands of new nurses who will be entering the workforce during the next decade, read on to learn more.
In May 2009, nurses earned a national median hourly wage of $30.65.
The industries with the highest expected number of jobs are:
- General Hospitals
- Physician’s Offices
- Home Health Care
- Nursing Care Facilities
- Employment Services
Advancement and Growth Opportunities
Advancement opportunities are also plentiful for nurses. In general, nurses may advance along the following path:
- Staff Nurse
- Assistant Unit Manager/Head Nurse
- Assistant Director/Director
- Vice President
- Chief of Nursing
However, with the variety of specializations and settings available, potential nurses need not adhere to a set career path. Due to education costs, many nurses choose to enter the field as a Certified Nursing Assistant while continuing their education as they build work experience.
After becoming a CNA, one may choose to continue their education toward becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse, a Registered Nurse, an Advanced Practice Nurse or a Nurse Educator. Skipping the first two levels and entering a registered nursing degree program right away is also an option and one that many students still take advantage of. (St. Louis Healthcare Workforce Partners)
An alternate path to career growth is advanced practice nursing. These nurses specialize in specific areas, for example, nurse anesthetists. Some advanced practice nurses provide primary care services and prescribe medications.