DiversityNursing Blog

The role of a Nurse is one of dedication and service, and for some, that calling extends to military service. Nurses in the military not only provide critical care to service members but also to civilians in crisis situations around the world. Serving as a Nurse in the military offers unique opportunities, excellent benefits, and a chance to be part of something greater than oneself. This article will explore Nursing opportunities across different branches of the U.S. military, focusing on the advantages and experiences military Nursing can offer.

Benefits of Being a Military Nurse

Military Nursing provides both personal and professional benefits, making it an appealing career path. Here are some of the standout benefits:

Financial Support for Education: The military offers scholarships, loan repayment programs, and sign-on bonuses to help cover the cost of Nursing school or further training. For example, the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) can cover full tuition for qualifying Nurses, in addition to providing a stipend. 

Competitive Salary and Benefits: Military Nurses receive a competitive salary with the possibility of additional allowances for housing, food, and deployment. They also have access to healthcare and retirement benefits, which can offer a strong financial foundation compared to civilian roles.

Opportunities for Advancement: Each branch of the military provides clear pathways for career advancement. Nurses can move up in rank and expand their scope of responsibilities, such as overseeing teams or specializing in areas like anesthesia, trauma, or psychiatric Nursing.

Travel and Unique Assignments: Military Nurses have opportunities to work around the world, from military bases in the United States to international peacekeeping missions. Deployments offer chances to provide care in unique, high-impact settings, which can be incredibly fulfilling.

Specialized Training and Skill Development: Training emphasizes emergency response, trauma, and critical care, enhancing skills that are invaluable in both military and civilian settings.

Strong Community and Support Network: Being a part of the military community means joining a tight-knit network of individuals committed to service. The camaraderie and support that military personnel experience can lead to lifelong friendships and a strong sense of purpose.

Nursing Opportunities in Each Military Branch

Each branch of the U.S. military has its own unique culture and focus, offering different Nursing roles depending on its mission. Let’s take a closer look at the roles available in each branch:

Army Nurse Corps

The Army Nurse Corps is the largest and one of the most well-established branches for military Nursing. Army Nurses can work in a variety of settings, from field hospitals to medical centers on Army bases. Specializations include critical care, emergency trauma, surgical Nursing, and Nurse Anesthetist roles. The Army also has a Reserve component, allowing Nurses to serve part-time while maintaining a civilian career.

• Notable Opportunity: Army Critical Care Nurse (66S) and Army Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) programs are highly specialized and offer hands-on experience in managing trauma in combat zones.
  
  

Navy Nurse Corps

Navy Nurses work in a wide range of environments, from naval hospitals on shore to hospital ships deployed for humanitarian missions. Navy Nurses may also serve with Marine Corps units since the Navy provides medical support to the Marines. Specializations include critical care, perioperative, mental health, and pediatrics.

• Notable Opportunity: The Navy’s hospital ships, such as the USNS Comfort and USNS Mercy, provide disaster relief and humanitarian aid globally, allowing Nurses to serve in non-combat missions that benefit civilian populations in crisis.
  
  

Air Force Nurse Corps

The Air Force Nurse Corps focuses on delivering care in both clinical settings on base and during aeromedical evacuations. Air Force Nurses may specialize in flight Nursing, which involves caring for patients being transported by air, often in critical condition. Nurses also work in medical facilities that support Air Force personnel and their families.

• Notable Opportunity: The Air Force’s Critical Care Air Transport Team (CCATT) program allows Nurses to work in aeromedical evacuation units, providing care in-flight and stabilizing patients en route to advanced treatment facilities.
  
  

Public Health Service Commissioned Corps

The U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) Commissioned Corps is a uniformed service that addresses public health crises and responds to natural disasters and disease outbreaks. Nurses in the USPHS serve on the front lines of public health and preventive care and may work in federal hospitals, research institutions, and public health agencies.

• Notable Opportunity: USPHS Nurses are often deployed during public health emergencies, making it a rewarding path for those passionate about public health and disaster response.
  
  

Coast Guard Nursing Opportunities

While the Coast Guard does not have a formal Nursing corps, it collaborates with the U.S. Public Health Service to provide healthcare to Coast Guard personnel and their families. Nurses in the Coast Guard context often focus on occupational health, preventive care, and emergency response.

• Notable Opportunity: Nurses who wish to work closely with the Coast Guard may consider joining the USPHS, which offers assignments to Coast Guard clinics and medical facilities.
  
  

Military Nursing is a rewarding and challenging path that combines the compassion of Nursing with the sense of duty and adventure that comes with serving in the armed forces. Each branch offers unique opportunities, and while the commitment to serving as a military Nurse is significant, the benefits—educational support, competitive pay, advancement potential, and the chance to make a difference worldwide—make it a compelling choice. For those called to serve, military Nursing can be the adventure of a lifetime and a profound way to contribute to both the healthcare profession and national service.

Whether your interest lies in trauma care, public health, or disaster response, military Nursing has a place for you.

When people think of Nursing, the image that often comes to mind is that of a Nurse at the bedside, providing direct patient care. While bedside Nursing is a critical and rewarding part of the profession, it's not the only path available. There are numerous non-bedside Nursing roles that offer unique challenges, opportunities for growth, and the ability to make a significant impact in healthcare. Here are some exciting non-bedside Nursing careers to consider:

Nurse Educator

Role: Nurse Educators play a crucial role in shaping the future of Nursing by teaching and mentoring Nursing students and current Nurses. They work in academic settings, such as universities and colleges, as well as in hospitals and healthcare organizations.

Responsibilities:

• Developing curricula and teaching courses
• Conducting and publishing research
• Advising and mentoring students
• Staying current with Nursing trends and practices

Skills Needed: Strong clinical background, teaching skills, communication, and a passion for education.

Nurse Informaticist

Role: Nurse Informaticists bridge the gap between Nursing and technology. They focus on improving patient care by optimizing information management and communication technologies.

Responsibilities:

• Implementing and managing electronic health records (EHR)
• Analyzing data to improve patient outcomes
• Training staff on new technologies
• Collaborating with IT professionals to develop and refine healthcare software

Skills Needed: Technical proficiency, analytical skills, project management, and an understanding of clinical workflows.

Nurse Researcher

Role: Nurse Researchers conduct studies to improve patient care, develop new treatments, and advance the field of Nursing science.

Responsibilities:

• Designing and conducting research studies
• Collecting and analyzing data
• Publishing findings in scientific journals
• Securing funding through grants

Skills Needed: Analytical thinking, research methodology, statistical analysis, and writing skills.

Nurse Administrator

Role: Nurse Administrators oversee Nursing staff and manage the operations of healthcare facilities. They ensure patients receive high-quality care and the facility runs efficiently.

Responsibilities:

• Managing budgets and resources
• Developing policies and procedures
• Hiring and training staff
• Ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations

Skills Needed: Leadership, organizational skills, financial acumen, and a comprehensive understanding of healthcare systems.

Nurse Consultant

Role: Nurse Consultants provide expert advice to healthcare organizations, helping them improve processes, policies, and patient care practices.

Responsibilities:

• Analyzing healthcare practices and recommending improvements
• Training staff on best practices
• Conducting audits and evaluations
• Advising on legal and ethical issues in healthcare

Skills Needed: Expertise in a specific area of Nursing, problem-solving skills, communication, and the ability to work independently.

Nurse Health Coach

Role: Nurse Health Coaches work with individuals to help them achieve their health goals through personalized coaching and support.

Responsibilities:

• Assessing clients' health status and needs
• Developing and implementing personalized health plans
• Providing education and motivation to clients
• Monitoring progress and adjusting plans as needed

Skills Needed: Strong interpersonal skills, motivational interviewing, knowledge of wellness and prevention strategies, and empathy.

Nurse Case Manager

Role: Nurse Case Managers coordinate care for patients, especially those with chronic conditions or complex medical needs, to ensure they receive comprehensive and efficient care.

Responsibilities:

• Assessing patients' needs and developing care plans
• Coordinating services and resources
• Monitoring patients' progress
• Advocating for patients and families

Skills Needed: Organizational skills, understanding of healthcare systems, patient advocacy, and the ability to work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals.

Nursing offers a diverse array of career paths beyond the bedside, each with its own set of challenges and rewards. Whether you're interested in education, technology, research, administration, consulting, coaching, or case management, there's a non-bedside Nursing role that can suit your skills and passions. By exploring these opportunities, you can find a fulfilling career that allows you to make a significant impact on the healthcare system and the lives of patients in a different capacity.

Choosing the right Nursing school is a crucial decision that will shape your future career. It's essential to carefully consider various factors to ensure you receive the best education and training possible. From accreditation to clinical opportunities, faculty expertise, and student support services, each aspect plays a vital role in your overall learning experience. By taking the time to research and evaluate these key factors, you can choose a Nursing school that aligns with your goals and sets you up for success in the field of Nursing.

Here are some key things to look for:

Accreditation

Ensure the Nursing program is accredited by a recognized accrediting body such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Accreditation ensures the program meets certain standards of quality and prepares you for licensure exams.

Licensure Pass Rates

Seek out Nursing schools with impressive pass rates on the NCLEX-RN exam. A strong track record in this area signifies the program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their licensure exams.

Clinical Opportunities

Check the options of clinical partnerships and hands-on opportunities accessible to students. A reputable Nursing program should provide a variety of clinical experiences across different healthcare settings, enabling students to enhance their skills through practical experience.

Faculty Expertise and Experience

Explore the credentials and expertise of the Nursing faculty. Seek out institutions with faculty members who bring a wealth of experience as both skilled Clinicians and dedicated Educators within the Nursing profession.

Resources and Facilities

Evaluate the resources and facilities available to Nursing students, including simulation labs, libraries, and technology resources. These resources play a crucial role in providing a comprehensive learning experience.

Student Support Services

Explore the array of student support services provided by the Nursing school, including personalized academic guidance, specialized tutoring sessions, comprehensive career development resources, and confidential counseling services. These vital support systems are designed to empower your academic and professional success.

Reputation and Outcomes

Research the reputation of the Nursing school and consider factors such as graduation rates, job placement rates, and alumni success stories. A reputable Nursing program with positive outcomes is likely to provide a high-quality education.

Program Flexibility

Consider the flexibility of the Nursing program, including options for part-time study, evening or weekend classes, and online coursework. Flexible program options can accommodate students with busy schedules or other commitments.

Cost and Financial Aid

Evaluate the cost of tuition and fees for the Nursing program, as well as the availability of financial aid, scholarships, and grants. Consider the overall value of the education provided in relation to the cost.

Location and Campus Culture

Take into account the Nursing school's location and how it fits with your personal preferences, including its proximity to your home, whether it's set in an urban or rural area, and the overall campus culture. If feasible, make a visit to the campus to immerse yourself in the environment and get a feel for the community.

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a Nursing school that best fits your needs, goals, and preferences, setting you up for success in your Nursing career.

Being a Research Nurse is a unique and vital role within the healthcare system. Research Nurses play a crucial part in bridging the gap between clinical practice and scientific research. Here's an overview of what it's like to be a Research Nurse and why the role is essential:

Responsibilities of a Research Nurse

Clinical Trial Coordination

Research Nurses play a crucial role in the coordination and management of clinical trials. They are responsible for recruiting and screening eligible participants, obtaining informed consent, and ensuring strict adherence to the study protocol.

Patient Care

These Nurses also provide comprehensive care to participants in clinical trials. This entails closely monitoring for any potential adverse events, administering treatments specific to the study, and promptly addressing any concerns or questions participants may have.

Collaboration with Multidisciplinary Teams

This role involves collaborating with a wide range of experts, including principal Investigators, Physicians, Pharmacists, Data Managers, and Statisticians. Effective communication and collaboration skills are integral to the progress of research studies. By working together with these experts, Research Nurses ensure the study protocol is followed, participant safety is prioritized, and accurate data is collected, ultimately contributing to the advancement of medical knowledge and the improvement of patient care.

Education and Informed Consent

They are responsible for providing participants with detailed information about the research study, a clear and comprehensive explanation of the potential risks and benefits involved, and acquiring informed consent. Effective and transparent communication is paramount in ensuring participants have a comprehensive understanding of their role and responsibilities within the study.

Protocol Adherence

Maintaining a meticulous adherence to the research protocol is of utmost importance. Research Nurses diligently monitor participants to guarantee all procedures are executed in accordance with the study plan.

Why We Need Research Nurses

Advancing Medical Knowledge

Research Nurses contribute to the progress of medical knowledge by actively facilitating and conducting clinical research. Their dedication and efforts lead to the discovery of innovative treatments, medications, and interventions that have the potential to significantly enhance patient outcomes.

Translating Research into Practice

These Nurses are essential in translating research findings into clinical practice. They understand the practical implications of study results and can help integrate evidence-based practices into patient care.

Quality Improvement in Healthcare

Through their involvement in research, Nurses contribute to ongoing quality improvement initiatives in healthcare. They identify best practices and areas for improvement based on research outcomes.

Patient-Centered Care

Research Nurses prioritize the voice and perspective of the patient, placing them at the heart of the research process. This patient-centric approach is instrumental in generating research outcomes that are not only meaningful but also relevant to the individuals who will benefit from them.

Professional Development

Being a Research Nurse offers opportunities for professional growth and development. It allows Nurses to deepen their understanding of research methodologies, stay up-to-date on the latest medical advancements, and contribute to the scientific community.

Research Nurses are integral to the dynamic interaction between research and clinical care. Their work is essential for advancing medical knowledge, ensuring patient safety, and improving the quality of healthcare through evidence-based practices.

Nurse Educators play a crucial role in shaping the future of Nursing by preparing the next generation of Nurses to meet evolving healthcare needs. Their responsibilities extend beyond traditional patient care to education, mentoring, and influencing the development of Nursing professionals.

Here are some key aspects of the role Nurse Educators play in shaping the future of Nursing:

Curriculum Development

Nurse Educators are responsible for designing and updating programs to ensure they align with current healthcare standards, evidence-based practices, and technological advancements. This vital role requires them to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the field and incorporate them into the curriculum.

In designing Nursing education programs, Educators collaborate with healthcare professionals, industry experts, and policymakers to ensure the curriculum reflects the evolving needs of the industry. They gather feedback and insights from these stakeholders to identify the knowledge and skills essential for Nurses in the current healthcare landscape.

Technological advancements also play a crucial role in shaping these programs. Nurse Educators incorporate innovative teaching methods and utilize modern technology to enhance the learning experience for students. This includes utilizing simulation labs, virtual reality, and interactive online platforms to provide hands-on training and experiential learning opportunities.

Teaching and Instruction

These professionals go beyond traditional teaching methods to deliver dynamic and engaging lectures that captivate students. They understand the importance of creating an interactive learning environment where students are actively involved in the learning process.

To enhance the educational experience, Nurse Educators incorporate a variety of teaching methods that cater to different learning styles. They utilize simulation labs to provide students with realistic scenarios where they can apply their knowledge and skills in a controlled environment. By engaging in hands-on training, students gain the confidence and competence necessary to excel in real-world situations.

Nurse Educators recognize the value of case studies in helping students develop critical thinking skills. These case studies present complex patient scenarios that require students to analyze information, make decisions, and provide appropriate Nursing interventions. By working through these scenarios, students learn to think critically and apply their theoretical knowledge to practical situations.

Throughout the teaching process, Nurse Educators encourage active participation and foster an atmosphere of collaboration. They facilitate discussions where students can share their perspectives, ask questions, and engage in meaningful dialogue. By encouraging student engagement, they create a supportive and inclusive learning environment where students feel comfortable expressing their opinions and ideas.

Mentoring and Guidance

1. Nurse Educators act as mentors for aspiring Nurses, providing invaluable guidance and support throughout their educational and professional journeys. With their wealth of knowledge and experience, they generously share their expertise, personal stories, and valuable insights to help students develop critical thinking abilities and make well-informed decisions in the field of Nursing.

   These mentors understand the challenges and complexities that students may face as they navigate their way through their education. They offer a listening ear and a supportive presence, providing a safe space for students to express their concerns and seek advice. Through their mentorship, Nurse Educators help students build confidence, resilience, and the ability to overcome obstacles that may arise during their academic and professional careers.

   They serve as role models for their students, demonstrating the qualities and skills necessary to excel in the profession. They inspire and motivate students to strive for excellence, emphasizing the importance of compassion, empathy, and ethical practice in the delivery of healthcare. By sharing their own experiences and lessons learned, they provide students with real-life examples of the challenges and rewards of being a Nurse.

   Clinical Supervision

   Educators play a vital role in overseeing clinical experiences, ensuring students have the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge in practical settings. This hands-on experience is crucial for developing the skills and confidence necessary for future Nursing professionals.

   They work closely with healthcare facilities to establish clinical placements that provide diverse and meaningful learning opportunities. They collaborate with clinical coordinators and Nursing staff to identify appropriate settings where students can gain exposure to a wide range of patient populations and healthcare specialties.

   These clinical placements are carefully selected to expose students to various healthcare environments, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health centers. This diversity of experiences allows students to develop a well-rounded understanding of different healthcare settings and the unique challenges and opportunities they present.

   During clinical experiences, Educators provide guidance and support to students, serving as mentors and role models. They observe students during their interactions with patients, providing feedback and constructive criticism to help them improve their clinical practice. They also facilitate discussions and debriefing sessions, encouraging students to reflect on their experiences and apply theoretical concepts to real-world situations.

   They collaborate with clinical instructors and healthcare professionals to assess students' clinical competency and ensure they are meeting the necessary requirements for graduation. They also conduct regular evaluations and assessments to monitor students' progress, identify areas for improvement, and provide additional support and resources as needed.

   Professional Development

   By actively seeking out new information and resources, Nurse Educators are able to stay up-to-date on the latest breakthroughs in healthcare. They participate in professional development opportunities, such as conferences, workshops, and online courses, to expand their knowledge and skills in areas relevant to Nursing education. This ongoing commitment to learning allows them to bring fresh perspectives and innovative teaching techniques into the classroom.

   In addition to enhancing their own knowledge, they also foster a commitment to lifelong learning in their students. They understand that Nursing is a constantly evolving field, and it is essential for Nurses to continuously update their knowledge and skills to provide the best possible care. Nurse Educators encourage and facilitate ongoing professional development for their students, providing them with resources, guidance, and opportunities to pursue further education and certifications.

2. 
   

   Advocacy for Nursing Education

   Nurse educators understand the critical role Nursing education plays in shaping the future of healthcare. They are passionate advocates for Nursing education, working tirelessly at various levels to promote its importance and ensure its growth and improvement.

   At the institutional level, these Educators actively participate in policy development. They collaborate with administrators and other stakeholders to create policies that support high-quality Nursing education. By working closely with decision-makers, they can influence the allocation of resources and advocate for the necessary funding to enhance educational programs.

   They also engage in lobbying efforts at the local and national levels. They use their expertise and knowledge to advocate for policies and initiatives that prioritize Nursing education. Whether it's meeting with legislators, attending conferences, or writing letters to policymakers, Nurse Educators are dedicated to ensuring Nursing education remains a priority on the healthcare agenda.

   Cultural Competence and Diversity

   Nurse Educators understand cultural competence and diversity are essential components of Nursing education. They recognize Nurses must be prepared to provide care to individuals from diverse backgrounds and communities, as healthcare is increasingly becoming more global and multicultural.

   To emphasize the importance of cultural competence, Educators incorporate cultural awareness and sensitivity training into their curriculum. They educate students about the impact of cultural beliefs, values, and practices on healthcare outcomes. By fostering an understanding of different cultures, they equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to provide culturally sensitive care.

   In addition to classroom instruction, they also encourage students to engage in cultural immersion experiences. They may organize community outreach programs, where students have the opportunity to interact with individuals from different cultures and gain firsthand experience in providing culturally competent care. These experiences help students develop empathy, respect, and appreciation for the diversity of their patients.

   To support diversity, Nurse Educators actively recruit students from underrepresented backgrounds and communities. They create a welcoming and inclusive learning environment where students feel valued and supported. By fostering a diverse student body, they encourage the exchange of ideas, perspectives, and experiences, which enriches the learning environment and promotes cultural competence.

   Leadership Development

   Nurse Educators play a vital role in preparing future Nurses to take on leadership positions which contribute to the advancement of Nursing practice and healthcare delivery. They understand effective leadership is essential for driving change and improving patient outcomes.

   To nurture leadership qualities in their students, they provide them with opportunities to develop and practice leadership skills. They incorporate leadership training into the curriculum, teaching students about the various leadership styles and theories. Through interactive exercises and group projects, students learn how to effectively communicate, collaborate, and make decisions as leaders.

   They also encourage students to take on leadership roles within their educational and clinical settings. They provide guidance and support as students participate in student organizations, committees, and quality improvement projects. By actively engaging in these leadership opportunities, students develop confidence, critical thinking abilities, and a sense of responsibility towards their profession.

   Nurse Educators mentor and inspire their students to become leaders in the field. They share their own experiences and insights, providing guidance on how to navigate the complexities of healthcare leadership. They encourage students to set goals, pursue advanced education, and pursue leadership positions within healthcare organizations.

3.  

Nurse Educators play a multifaceted role in shaping the future of Nursing by not only providing quality education but also by serving as mentors, advocates, and leaders who contribute to the overall development of the Nursing profession. Their impact extends beyond the classroom, influencing the quality of patient care and the effectiveness of healthcare systems.

Thinking about changing careers? At any stage in life, Nursing is a great choice because Nurses are always in demand. It's a challenging, but rewarding field and previous education can help you become a Nurse faster.

"I'm a second career Nurse. What's wonderful about Nursing, is that it's very accessible after you've already been to school or college for another type of degree," Telemetry Nurse, Victoria told Johnson and Johnson. 

If you already have a Bachelor’s degree in any field, an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is the quickest route. It usually takes less than 2 years. If you don't have a prior Bachelor’s degree, you can become a Registered Nurse (RN) with an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or you can enter the workforce even quicker by becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN). 

After you earn your Nursing degree, you’ll be eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), which is administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).

There are two of the NCLEX exam: The NCLEX-RN is a computerized exam required by all state boards of Nursing to qualify for an RN license. The NCLEX-PN is required to practice as an LPN.

After you pass the NCLEX, you must apply to your state board of Nursing for a license to practice.

If you're asking yourself, "Am I too old to become a Nurse?" The answer is no, it's never too late to join  the Nursing workforce. According to the NCSBN, the median age of working Registered Nurses is 52 years old. 

It's also important to remember this point by Indeed, your career length doesn't reduce the impact you may bring to the unit once you work as a Nurse. Your contribution makes a huge difference regardless of how long you can be active in the field.

"If you are a baby boomer or Gen X, there’s a place in Nursing for you. Your past work experience, dedication and passion are all needed resources within the healthcare arena. As Uncle Sam once said, “We Want You!," wrote Judy McDaniel, RN, MSN in a Nurse.com article.

According to The Department of Labor, The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that more than 275,000 additional Nurses are needed from 2020 to 2030, and that employment opportunities for Nurses will grow at 9%, faster than all other occupations from 2016 through 2026.

This high demand is due to a variety of factors such as an increase in chronic conditions, an aging population and a stronger emphasis on preventative care.

If you have anxiety about being a new Nurse, consider one of the most important concepts taught in Nursing school, the “5 C’s” of caring: 

Commitment, Conscience, Competence, Compassion, and Confidence

Learning and adapting these concepts will allow you to provide better care and will improve the relationships you have with your patients as well as co-workers.

If you're interested in learning more about different Nursing Specialties, Click Here! 

One positive thing to come out of the COVID-19 pandemic is the renewed appreciation for healthcare workers, particularly Nurses. This appreciation is leading to an increase in Nursing school applications.

Donna Havens, PhD, RN, FAAN, Dean of Nursing at Villanova University M. Louise Fitzpatrick College said, “For the first time in my career, which has been a long one, folks truly get what Nurses do and they see how important and rewarding a career it is. Some would say Nurses are the glue, especially in hospitals and healthcare organizations." 

Havens believes another reason for the uptick in applications is from the record unemployment that has resulted from the pandemic. People in struggling occupations may look to Nursing as a rewarding and stable profession. 

Widener University spokeswoman Emily A Barrett said, "Historically speaking, economic downturns translate to an increase in Nursing programs due to industry stability and growth, which is projected to rise 15 percent by 2026 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics."

Sandra Russo, Chair and Director of the Nursing program at Touro College in New York said, "This year, I have 20 students on a waiting list to get into my program, so the demand is much higher."

According to US News, the number of applications to Regis College's on-ground and online Nurse Practitioner programs are currently 10% to 15% higher than normal. 

Kevin Finn, Dean of Colby-Sawyer School of Nursing and Public Health said, the one thing he sees in common on the applications is a desire to help. 

The incoming Nursing class is 34% larger than last fall's. The college will have 90 students enrolled in its Nursing program in September, an increase from 62 students last year.

The University of Kansas School of Nursing said it’s currently at capacity on applications. In fact, they’ve increased their Salina branch because of so many people who now want to be a Nurse.

Nurses are in demand. Getting into Nursing school was already extremely competitive before the pandemic. Nursing schools may become even more selective with the increase in applications. Future Nurses should focus on boosting their credentials. 

If you’re thinking about continuing your education or are just starting out with your Nursing education, we think this article might be helpful to you. Let us know what you think.

Nurses are always learning. Whether it’s on-the-job with practical experience or continuing your formal education, you are always on a quest to learn more. Perhaps you’re trying to figure out how to do something better, earn your next degree, improve your relationship and listening skills, or how the latest electronic medical records program works. You are determined to move forward and be your best. If you’re looking to advance your formal education, we offer this article as a source of information on Nursing schools and acceptance rates.