Nursing Careers: Job Outlook and Salaries

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the number of registered nursing (RN) jobs will grow by about 7 percent by 2029, while the number of licensed practical and licensed vocational nursing (LPN) jobs will grow by 9 percent over the same period. The job outlook for both fields is significantly higher than the average for all expectations.

That excellent job outlook is largely due to the country’s aging population. As the Baby Boomer generation gets older, the nation will need more medical professionals to provide high-quality nursing care.

Nurses are also working in a wider variety of settings than ever before — while many nurses work in hospitals, physician’s office, and residential care facilities, a growing number perform their services in home healthcare settings. Some registered nurses even work from home, administering care to patients remotely through telehealth (or e-health) programs.

Both LPNs and RNs can find jobs with excellent pay and benefits. Per the BLS, licensed practical nurses earned a median salary of $47,480 per year as of 2019, while registered nurses earned a median annual salary of $73,300.

Types of Nursing Courses Available Through Online Schools

If you’re ready to start your nursing career, you’ll need to complete the required coursework to earn your certification. Online programs allow you to attend classes from your own home, and many are much less expensive than in-person classes.

Look for a program designed for your intended nursing career. Options may include:

• Licensed Practical Nurses- Becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN) typically requires the completion of a one-year educational program ending with a certification exam. An LPN works directly with patients and their families, providing routine care. These nurses monitor patients and report information to registered nurses and doctors.
• Registered Nurses- A registered nurse (RN) is someone who has graduated from a two or three-year nursing program and passed the national licensing exam (NCLEX). RNs are front-line workers who typically provide direct patient care, but many work in administration, manage case studies, and do clinical research. An RN handles more advanced care needs compared to an LPN.
• Nursing Baccalaureate (Bachelor’s Degree) Programs- A nursing bachelor’s degree (BSN) is a four-year program that combines liberal arts courses as well as medical education and training. An RN might pursue a BSN to further their education and branch out into more specialized areas of nursing (such as management positions or education roles), to increase their pay scale, or to hone their skills as a medical professional.

Some nurses start out as LPNs, then enter an RN program after developing their skills, and many RNs work for several years before deciding to finish their bachelor’s degrees. There’s no “right" or “wrong" way to becoming a nurse — evaluate your options carefully to find a path that works for you.

Finding Accredited Nursing Programs Online

Many colleges and universities now offer online nursing programs, and while coursework varies from school to school, students who take advantage of these programs can benefit from flexible scheduling and relatively low tuition costs. Before enrolling, however, you should evaluate schools carefully.

Find out whether each course offers some or all of its coursework online. Research the school’s reputation and make sure the program is geared towards nursing certification in your state of residence (or in the state where you intend to work). Review the curriculum and the expected timeframe of completion. If you intend to develop a specialization (for instance, if your goal is to become a pediatric nurse), make sure that the coursework will support your goals.

You’ll also want to research each school’s classroom structure. Some online courses allow students to review lectures at any time and complete examinations on their own schedules — others insist on stricter schedules for students.

Using Online Resources to Compare Nursing Programs

When searching for nursing programs, make sure to compare as many options as possible. Consider at least 3-4 programs before making a decision — the more work you’re able to put into your research, the better your chances of finding coursework that matches your schedule and career goals.

Remember, while tuition is an important consideration, you should look for a reputable, accredited school that offers programs geared towards licensure in your state. Nursing programs can be challenging, but if you’re looking for a high-paying, important career, online resources can give you the tools you need to get started.