Nurses: Is it time to go back to school?

 

Nurses have a wide variety of degrees to choose from, each with unique requirements, benefits and possible career paths. If you've obtained an associate's nursing degree and have ambitions of rising higher at your employer organization, it's never too late to consider a bridge program.

Look at your career goals

Obtaining any level of nursing degree is a huge achievement. For example, licensed vocational nursing programs prepare students to handle the daily challenges of an entry-level nursing position. After gaining some experience in a real clinical setting, you may choose to build upon your LVN or associate's degree to achieve your career and financial goals.

Take some time to consider where you'd like to be in five years. If the answer is in a position with more responsibilities, then you may want to learn more about your educational opportunities. Thankfully, many programs allow students to continue to work while they obtain their advanced degrees.

Consider your options

According to AllNursingSchools.com, there are a variety of bridge programs available to nurses returning to school. For example, if you have your associate's degree, you could circumvent the traditional four-year program by attending classes on a part-time basis. Because the Bachelor of Science in Nursing is one of the most sought-after degrees, you'll likely be able to increase your earning power by obtaining this higher level of education.

If you're further along in your career, you may also consider getting your Master of Science in Nursing degree, or a doctorate degree. When you have time and dedication, the sky really is the limit. In fact, you could decide to go after a medical degree and become a physician.

Speak with a mentor

If you've considered all of your options and still aren't sure which path is right for you, seek out guidance from someone you trust. This could be a co-worker with whom you are close or a family member who understands your professional aspirations.

You may also want to consider chatting with a medical recruiter. These experts live and breathe medical hiring, so they can tell you what to expect if you decide to go back to school.

To learn more about the requirements of senior nursing positions, stop by myHealthTalent.com to read through job listings. Nurses have a wide variety of degrees to choose from, each with unique requirements, benefits and possible career paths.