Launching a nursing career in San Diego could prove to be a smart choice. The thriving healthcare industry in the city offers many dynamic career opportunities. San Diego is one of the largest cities in the state of California that has built repute with its key industries in healthcare and education. There are a number of healthcare institutions in San Diego that focus on health innovation and aim towards building a healthier and safer community. RNs, LPNs, and physicians make up the extensive workforce in the healthcare sector. Many individuals have opted for healthcare careers due to the positive employment growth and wage increase. According to San Diego EDC, wages grew by 11.7% in healthcare in recent years.
Nursing Schools in San Diego
San Diego has a well-established higher education network that comprises of many public and private colleges. These colleges offer nursing education programs to those interested in nursing careers. Many schools offer state of the art learning facilities allowing students to get a well-rounded educational experience. Some of the popularly pursued nursing degrees offered are described below:
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
This is a basic nursing degree designed to prepare students for careers as LPNs. The program focuses upon basic nursing concepts and practices. Students learn how to provide primary care to patients and assist physicians in healthcare settings.
Registered Nurse degree (RN)
RN degree programs are more advanced in nature as compared to LPN programs. This program highlights advanced nursing concepts and prepares students for roles as registered nurses. The coursework is divided into theoretical learning, practical learning, and training.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
This is an undergraduate nursing degree offered by many schools. It is designed to prepare students for more advanced-level nursing jobs in the healthcare industry. Students can choose to specialize in a nursing field such as: oncology nursing, pediatric nursing, and emergency nursing.
Licensing
The Board of Nursing in California is the main agency that promotes and regulates nursing in the state. All nurses in San Diego must be licensed by this board and must pass the NCLEX exam.
Accreditation of Nursing Schools
When selecting a college or school in the city of San Diego, it is crucially important that you check the accreditation status of the institute. Accreditation reflects a college’s compliance with education, curriculum, and quality standards. Most nursing colleges will be accredited by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). You must also make sure the institute has been accredited regionally. The main regional board that accredits schools in this area is the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
Nursing Careers in San Diego
With the demand for nurses steadily increasing in the state, a nursing degree can help you pursue a dynamic career in the industry. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses in California made a mean annual wage of $96,980 and licensed practical nurses made a mean annual wage of $51,800. These professionals are employed by private clinics, public hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and even the armed forces. Nursing jobs come with room for growth and allow individuals to excel in their field through further training and credentials.