Students who are considering a career in nursing have several opportunities in front of them. Florida National University (FNU) offers multiple nursing degree programs:
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- RN to MSN
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Associate of Science in Nursing
Before deciding on which degree path you want to take, it is important to understand the job outlook for the industry. Let’s look at what it means to be a registered nurse.
What is a Registered Nurse (RN)?
Students might wonder how a registered nurse differs from other nurses. An RN’s position requires they offer basic nursing care, applying techniques learned from the program of study. Registered nurses work often report to the Nurse Manager, who is responsible for an entire staff of nursing.
Why Become a Registered Nurse?
Students who are considering the various nursing programs offered by universities might wonder about the benefits of becoming an RN versus a typical nurse or other medically related careers. To eliminate confusion between the various positions, Florida National University (FNU) has detailed five reasons becoming an RN is a great path:
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You’ll Be Ready for the Job Market
The good news is that studying to become an RN is specific. Your job search will be much easier than that of a degree holder in Business Administration. Also, a large benefit of studying nursing is that positions in this field can provide a lifelong career.
FNU’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program prepares students to become professional nurses who can function in a variety of roles. Graduates will acquire the necessary knowledge and skill to safely practice patient care and pass the NCLEX exam. Once you have passed, you will be ready to enter the job market.
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You Get to Help Others
One of the main reasons students decide to pursue nursing is because they get to help other people. There is always a sense of accomplishment from helping others, but when you become a nurse, you’ll feel more than that. There is a sense of responsibility and obligation to help. As a Registered Nurse, you get the opportunity to help, educate, treat, and heal patients every single day.
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Different Work Environments
When pursuing your Bachelor of Science in Nursing at FNU, you’ll get to learn a variety of different industries. Some of the core areas you’ll study are:
- Psychiatric Nursing
- Pediatric Nursing
- Maternity and Newborn Nursing
- Nursing Leadership and Management
- Community Nursing
- Adult Health Nursing
- Pathophysiology
With this knowledge, you’ll be able to work in any environment. Have you always wanted to work with newborns? You can become a labor and delivery nurse. Are you curious about mental health patients? You could work as a psychiatric-mental health nurse. The options are endless and if you decide a certain environment isn’t for you, you can change it without having to go back to school.
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Job Security
According to the BLS, the employment of registered nurses is projected to grow 12% through 2028, much faster than average for all occupations. This growth is due to an increased emphasis on preventative care and increasing rates of chronic conditions (such as diabetes and obesity). Baby-boomers are also leading longer and more active lives, so this will have a significant effect on the healthcare industry. Since registered nurses can work in hospitals, nursing care facilities, physicians’ offices, home healthcare services, schools, and outpatient clinics, there will always be a place to work.
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Salary
While this shouldn’t be the only reason to become an RN, it’s certainly a benefit. The median annual wage for registered nurses was $73,300 in May 2019. While you may not start out making this, it’s something to look forward to. Registered nurses who work in hospitals and nursing care facilities usually work in shifts to provide round-the-clock coverage.
FNU: Getting You Started
Becoming a registered nurse may not be easy, but you will reap the benefits. Florida National University is dedicated to ensuring our students are well-equipped to enter the work field after graduating from our programs. That is why we do everything in our power to ensure our students understand their prospective field by offering Job Placement services for students and alumni who need assistance in their job search. Are you ready to get started toward your lifelong career? Find a program related to your interests and apply to FNU today or give us a call at 305-821-3333.
