Also known as the “Silver State", Nevada is home to some of the best institutes of higher learning in the region. Those interested in pursuing higher education in the state can find a number of options, ranging from degrees to certificates. The colleges and universities in Nevada offer numerous learning opportunities to those who want to acquire knowledge and skills that employers seek. A number of nursing schools in Nevada offer a variety of programs that prepare students for the future needs of the nursing workforce in the state.
Nursing Schools in Nevada
Offering nursing education through a variety of educational paths, the nursing schools in Nevada offer campus-based as well as online programs for students who want to study nursing practices. Nurses may hold a number of titles such as registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs). Both RNs and LPNs need to complete an approved nursing program and obtain a license to practice in Nevada. Getting into nursing programs allow students to acquire skills and knowledge that may possibly help them pursue careers in the field of nursing.
RN programs
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), to become a registered nurse, students can choose from a range of programs such as:
- Diploma in nursing
- Associate degree in nursing
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing
In all these programs, students are required to take classes in physiology, microbiology, chemistry, psychology and other social and behavioral sciences, as well as the liberal arts. The bachelor’s degree generally takes four years of full-time study while the associate degree and diploma programs span over two to three years. The duration of a nursing program may vary depending on the route that students decide to take. In addition to classroom based instruction, students must also complete a supervised clinical experience where they get a chance to gain hands on expertise in the field. The BLS notes that a bachelor's degree or higher is often essential for teaching, research or administrative positions.
LPN program
Nursing schools in Nevada also offer LPN (licensed practical nursing) programs. LPNs (licensed practical nurses) work under the direction of registered nurses and other healthcare experts and provide basic medical care. Students can typically complete an LPN program in about one year, if not longer. In addition to completing a supervised work experience, LPN students study a range of topics such as biology, pharmacology and more.
Career outlook for nurses in Nevada
Demand for registered nurses in the state of Nevada is likely to grow in the coming years (2012-2022), according to O*NET OnLine. Employment of LPNs in the state is also expected to grow during the same time.
Possible workplace settings are:
- Hospitals
- Nursing homes
- Offices of physicians
- Home healthcare facilities
What types of financial aid is available for nursing students in Nevada?
Students who want to pursue nursing education in Nevada but do not have sufficient financial means to pay for their educational expenses may apply for financial aid. Funds are only available to eligible students in the form of student loans, grants as well as scholarships such as:
- Nevada Health Service Corps Scholarship
- The Dan Mordecai Educational Scholarship Awards
- Harry and Rebecca Lahr Foundation Scholarship
With Nevada’s healthcare industry growing, now is the time to start thinking about how to become a part of this challenging workforce.