Maine students who have graduated from high school and think about what educational paths they should pursue may consider enrolling in the healthcare programs. Opportunities for healthcare practitioners and support workers in Maine are likely to grow higher than for all other major occupational groups (the Maine Department of Labor Center for Workforce report, 2014). Career outlook for nurses, who are like the backbone of the healthcare system, also look positive in the future.
Nursing Programs in Maine
Nursing schools in Maine are dedicated to prepare students for the growing demand and challenges of the nursing care sector. There are a number of programs available for aspiring nurses in Maine including undergraduate and graduate degrees as well as LPN programs. Some nursing schools in the state also offer accelerated nursing programs as well as online nursing programs for individuals who want to explore the healthcare practices at a faster pace or at their individuals routine.
RN Programs in Maine
According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), registered nurses (RNs) held about 2.7 million jobs in 2012. Maine students who wish to become a part of this largest healthcare occupation can enroll in the RN programs. BLS reports that RNs generally take one of three education paths: a bachelor's of science degree in nursing, an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN), or a diploma from an approved nursing program. Besides, RNs in all state also need to hold a license.
Combining classroom based instruction with real world experience, RNs programs provide instruction in a range of topics, allowing students to develop an understanding of the nursing practices and provide safe medical care to patients. Curriculum may include courses such as anatomy and physiology, psychiatric nursing, human development and pharmacology.
LPN Programs in Maine
Students who want to pursue entry level positions in the field of nursing can opt for LPN (licensed practical nursing) programs. Blending nursing courses with general education courses, these programs prepare students to assist the registered nurses by providing a sound theoretical base for nursing practice. In addition to classroom based instruction, students also complete clinical experiences in these programs that give them hands on experience in the field. Coursework may include instruction in microbiology, introduction to psychology and developmental psychology.
Financial Assistance
Nursing students in the state of Maine can apply for financial aid in case they cannot afford a nursing education on their own. Funds are available to eligible students in the form of loans, grants and scholarships. Students can apply for financial aid programs such as Odd Fellows and Rebekahs Nursing Scholarship Program, OMNE Nursing Leadership of Maine Scholarship, Pell grants, and federal student loans and get funding for their educational expenses including tuition, books and more.
Opportunities for Maine Nurses
Employment of registered nurses (RNs) is expected to grow at the rate of 20% between 2010 and 2020 (Maine Department of Labor Center for Workforce). A number of factors including aging population and technological advances are likely to drive demand for these healthcare workers.
How much do nurses in Maine earn?
According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), RNs’ mean annual pay in 2013 was $62,640. The mean annual pay for LPNs made lesser than RNs, $40,810, a year in 2013 (BLS).