Do Careers in Nursing Pay Well In Today’s Economy?

What can I expect to earn when I finish my nursing education? Which states pay better than the others? Are there really jobs for nurses in this struggling economy? These are the questions most youngsters, fresh from school, would ask parents. But what are the facts? Find out.

Some parents get confused. Others never give the right advice when asked by the daughters and sons about careers. What can I expect to earn when I finish my nursing education? Which states pay better than the others? Are there really jobs for nurses in this struggling economy? These are the questions most youngsters, fresh from school, would ask parents. But what are the facts?

Well, according to US Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses represent the largest occupation within the U.S health care system and earn an average annual salary of $65,130. There are about 2.5 million registered nurses nationwide.  The bureau projects a good outlook for careers in nursing, with many new job opportunities expected in hospitals, doctor's offices, nursing homes, clinics and home health services.

Careers in nursing often start with, selecting an educational program that will later net that dream nursing job and act as a stepping stone for career advancement. The college you choose is important. However even as one gears up to make that important career move, it is crucial to note that the Bureau expectsjob opportunities to grow at 22% from 2008 to 2018.

Interestingly, the Bureau further reveals that not all nursing opportunities attract the same pay. For instance, registered nurses have a national average salary of $52,437; Family nurse practitioners $75,113; clinical nurse manager $74,197 while nurse anesthetist have salary average of  $124,2453. As with any career the more the pay the more specialization is required.  However some people prefer job security to compensation. It is really individual preference once one gets the facts right.

Apart from the different branches of nursing, pay scale is also determined by state. California leads with an annual mean salary of $85,080, while Massachusetts comes second with $81,780. And Hawaii takes the number three slot with $80,020. Other top paying states are Maryland $76,330 and New Jersey $74,990. But the figures are a little different when you look at the actual numbers. California has 233,030 employed nurses, Massachusetts 86,060, Hawaii 8,930 while Maryland has 51,560.  The numbers will ideally tell you the chances of getting a nursing job from state to state.

Careers in nursing just like any other careers will require in-depth thought, detailed research and individual  long term goals and aspirations. If you choose a career just for the money you may find it unfulfilling in the long haul. You need something bigger than the money to get you up every morning year in year out. If your dream is in this profession then go for it whether others like it or note. You need to be selfish when it comes to careers.

Article Tags: Registered Nurses

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