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A NURSING CAREER

by Bill Cross

The U.S. Department of Labor recently projected that nursing will be the fastest-growing occupation by 2012, and that’s good news for the country’s hospitals.

The retirement of baby boomers and their increasing need for medical care has put a strain on the nursing industry. The shortage has sent starting salaries skyrocketing, but has also left nursing schools without the resources to meet the demand. Better wages have drawn many qualified teachers away from schools and back into the private sector. As a result, nursing school, despite the nationwide outcry for more nurses, is as difficult as ever to get into.

So if you already got in, congratulations! If you’re trying to get accepted, consider broadening your search, but make sure you know which degree program is right for you.

Associate degree: Two-year program teaches technical skills and is the fastest way to become eligible for the nursing exam. Many community colleges offer this program.

Diploma: A three-year program in a hospital with the same limitations as an associate degree. This program is becoming less common as more students opt for associate or bachelor’s degrees.

Bachelor of Science: Four or five-year program, offered at many colleges and universities, offers more biological teaching and better career opportunities.

Program Type % of RN's by Highest Education Completed
Master's + Doctorate 10.2%
Baccalaureate 32.7%
Associate Degree 34.3%
Diploma 22.3%

Source: allnursingschools.com survey, March 2000

MEDICAL ASSISTANTS

by Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department

* Medical assistants is expected to be one of the fastest growing occupations through the year 2010.

* Job prospects should be best for medical assistants with formal training or experience.

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