Rn Programs in California
Are you looking for a career that involves care-giving and medical expertise while being dynamic and promising a good pay? If yes, nursing may be the perfect career choice for you. Nursing is the fastest growing occupation in California, and the demand for nurses is rising due to an increasing aging population and increasing demand for healthcare services. As a result of the Nursing Education Initiative, the state of California has allotted large amounts of funds for the generation and creation of RN (registered nurse) programs in California. The government increased funds available to community colleges and state universities while also forming public-private partnerships. As a result, several new baccalaureate programs have been launched and the capacity of existing RN programs increased.
Registered Nursing Programs In California:
One way to launch your nursing career is by enrolling in a program to become a registered nurse. There are three different degree programs that students can enroll into in order to become a RN.
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The first is a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) degree program. This is a four years program during which students take a range of courses in social and natural sciences. In addition to general education classes required for an undergraduate degree, students also gain clinical experience. California has some of the best nursing programs in the country such as the program offered by UCLA.
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An Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) is another route to becoming an RN. Typically, this takes two years to complete, and is usually offered by vocational institutes and community colleges.
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If you have a baccalaureate level degree in another discipline but want to change careers, then you may want to consider enrolling into an Entry Level Master's Program in Nursing (ELM). This takes between one and two years depending on which degree you have already earned. Graduates are awarded a master's degree.
The Pre-requisites For a RN Programs In California
The requirements for getting into a RN nursing program in California may vary considerably. Some colleges are competitive and will require you to have high GPAs and standardized test scores. If you are in high school and are applying, you should review the requirements of the program you are applying for and consider taking classes which would give you an edge over other students when you start.
After Earning Your Degree
Once you have earned your degree, you will have to apply for a license. This is issued by the California State Board of Registered Nursing (BRN). You will need to send in your application six to eight weeks before your graduation. You will also be required to take and pass the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX). A RN is licensed to practice in hospitals as well as other types of healthcare facilities such as a private practice. If you want to continue your education, then you may want to consider pursing a graduate or doctoral degree in nursing. With these degrees you may be able to work in administration, as a professor in a nursing program, or in a senior level nursing post in a hospital.
RN Career Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) registered nurses in California earned $96,980 as median annual salary in May 2013. Registered nurses, nationally, earned a median annual wage of $68,910 in 2013. This earns California the distinction of being the top state for registered nurses in terms of employment levels, wages and career growth.