Is Nursing School Worth It?
Choosing a new career can be challenging and full of many questions. It’s no different when it comes to nursing.
Most people believe they know what a nurse does, but there are some things you just can’t know until you experience it yourself. And before you start that application to nursing school, you want to know more. Is nursing school worth it, really? Can you manage the workload or even afford nursing school? What is truly like to be a nurse, and is it for you?
We can’t answer these questions for you, but we can tell you everything you need to consider so you can make the best choice.
Is Nursing a Good Fit for You?
Before you apply to nursing school, you are likely asking: Is nursing worth it? Well, it depends. What do you like? What’s your personality like? How do you feel about a few years of school? How do you feel about bodily fluids? How do you respond to conflict? All of these questions will determine if nursing is a good fit for you.
Why is nursing school worth it? There are many perks that obtaining a nursing degree can offer you professionally and personally. The desire to help others motivates many people to enter the profession, making it a very rewarding career choice. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to grow and learn constantly.
What Is Nursing School Like?
You likely have many questions around nursing school, specifically. What can you expect to do as a nursing student? What are the typical core classes? How much clinical work is required? How does the first year compare to the others?
Your experience will likely depend on your choice of nursing degree: ADN vs. BSN. For those who pursue an associate degree in nursing (ADN), you can expect to have clinical rotations in your first and second year, along with your coursework and labs. If you pursue a bachelor’s of science in nursing (BSN), you might spend your first year completing general coursework before starting your nursing classes.
Your core classes will include:
- Nursing fundamentals
- Anatomy and physiology
- Nutrition
- Psychology
- Chemistry
- Health assessment
- Pharmacology
- Population health
- Maternal child health
Your courses will become more challenging as your school years progress — expect to start with nursing fundamentals and advance to specialty courses later.
Regardless of the degree you choose, you’ll have to complete a minimum amount clinical hours (determined by your state board of nursing) during your nursing program for licensure.
Why Do You Want to Be a Nurse?
Think about what made you first interested and curious in becoming a nurse. Was it the desire to help other people? Were you attracted to a stable job that pays well? Did you like the idea of your everyday job changing constantly?
Why is nursing school worth it as a career path? For some people, the security of a stable job with benefits and decent salary is enough. Others need a deeper meaning attached to the career, a bigger purpose, to get them through the stressful and exhausting days in nursing.
Is a Nursing Degree Worth It?
A nursing degree is a hefty commitment, both in time and money. And you’re wise to wonder if a nursing degree is worth it before making any moves. Here are three reasons why pursuing a nursing degree is worth it.
1. Excellent Job Security
The need for nurses is not going away soon. Whether you are looking into becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN), registered nurse (RN), or nurse practitioner (NP), rest assured there will be jobs for you.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports these job growth statistics for the next 10 years:
- LPN: 5% growth in demand
- RN: 6% growth in demand
- NP: 45% growth in demand
The growth for LPNs and RNs are both greater than the average demand for all other professions. However, the demand for NPs will be positively skyrocketing. If job security is a main factor for you, consider becoming an NP.
2. Good Earning Potential
Is nursing school worth it, financially speaking? One perk of nursing is the earning potential you can expect. Depending on your nursing license and degree, your salary will vary.
- LPN salary: average yearly salary is $55,860
- RN salary: average yearly salary is $89,010
- NP salary: average yearly salary is $124,680
Your salary range will also depend on the speciality of nursing you choose, the location you live in, and the certifications you have. Another way you can earn more money as a nurse is by working overtime or working evening or night shifts, which often come with shift differentials.
3. Flexible Work Schedule
Another benefit of having a nursing career is the flexible schedule you can have. Many nursing shifts are 12 hours, which equates to three work days per week. This can allow you to go back to school, start a side gig, and devote time to hobbies. For parents, this flexible schedule allows them to spend more time with their children, helping them achieve a better work-life balance.
You can choose from day shift, night shift, and weekend shifts. You can work PRN, part time, or full time. Some nurses choose to work full time in one job, and PRN in another for even more earning potential.
How Hard Is Nursing School?
We’ll be honest with you — nursing school is challenging. With the right dedication and persistence, you can get through it! Be prepared for late-night studying and early-morning wake-ups for your clinical rotations.
Nursing school is a necessary part in becoming a RN. So if you’ve decided that nursing is the career for you, you’ll be headed to nursing school.
Why Is Nursing School Worth It? We Can Help You Find Out
If you’ve decided to pursue nursing school, we’re ready to support you along your career path. Learn the ways IntelyCare can match you with the best nursing jobs for your skills and interest areas.