Nursing Schools in Seattle
Seattle is a prominent city in Washington that has an estimated population of 652,405 (2013). Just like other U.S cities, demand for healthcare workers including nurses in Seattle is on the increase. According to the Washington Times (2011), the need for more nurses in the coming years stems primarily from an aging baby boomer population as well as a generation of aging nurses who will retire. So pursuing a nursing education could possibly lead students to careers in this field. There are numerous nursing schools in Seattle that offer a variety of academic options for aspiring nurses in the city.
Types of Programs offered at the Nursing Schools in Seattle
Seattle students who want to study nursing can choose from a number of nursing program options. Nursing degree programs such as associate and bachelor’s degree programs are designed to provide students with foundational knowledge in the field of nursing. Completing these programs enable students to sit for the state licenses exam to become RNs (registered nurse). RNs are responsible for providing basic nursing care to patients in healthcare settings. They monitor patients’ health, keep medical records, and perform a number of other tasks.
Nursing schools in Seattle also offer licensed practical nursing (LPN) programs. LPN programs prepare students to work as licensed practical nurse who work under the supervision of registered nurses and other healthcare professionals.
Advanced programs in nursing are also available for students who wish to take up the role of advanced practical nurses. These nurses play a vital role in providing nursing care to patients. They diagnose and treat patients with acute and chronic illnesses and prescribe medications. Additionally, these nurses also specialize in a particular field within nursing such as acute care, neonatal nursing, and more.
Common Courses in Nursing Programs
Combining classroom-based instructions with hands-on training, nursing programs enable students to become familiar with basic to complex nursing care. Some of the courses may include:
- Anatomy
- Nutrition
- Population Health
- Leadership in Health Studies
- Physiology
- Legal and ethical issues in nursing
- Microbiology
- Epidemiology for Nurses and Midwives
Financial Assistance for Nursing Students in Seattle
Students who want to pursue a nursing education in Seattle could apply for financial assistance in the form of grants, student loans, and scholarship. Some of the funds students can apply for include:
- Pell grants
- Federal student loans
- Nursing Workforce Diversity Grants
- HRSA Scholarships for Disadvantaged Students
- AAUW Fellowship and Grants
- Caroline E. Holt Nursing Scholarship
The eligibility criteria and amount of financial aid varies by type of financial assistance program.
What are the opportunities for graduates?
Seattle nurses generally work in hospitals, home healthcare services, and nursing care facilities. Offices of physicians and residential care facilities also employ these healthcare workers. According to O*Net OnLine data, the state of Washington is likely to require 2,230 RNs per year between 2012 and 2022. Opportunities for LPNs in the state are also expected to grow during the same timeline.