America Needs Nurses!

There is a huge nursing shortage in the USA. It is estimated that 1.2 million registered nurses will be needed by 2030. This has made Nursing Degrees highly sought after as they provide a basis for a safe and stable job.

Completing a Nursing Degree/Certificate takes can be done in less than 1 year, and it makes it possible for you to have a meaningful career in a field that you’re passionate about and with great growth potential.

Which Path to Choose?

With so many types of nursing degrees available, it’s important to understand how each program works so you can find the one that’s right for you. Whether you’re a recent high school graduate, experienced professional, or career changer, making the right decision means considering each option against your goals, financial resources, and lifestyle.

CNA Certificate or Diploma

A certified nursing assistant (CNA) certificate is a nondegree diploma offered at community colleges and vocational schools. Both classroom and online options are available, though all clinical hours must be performed in person at an approved location. As a CNA student, you’ll learn how to provide basic healthcare services and help patients with their daily activities.

While the exact education requirements vary by state, federal guidelines for CNA certificate programs require at least 75 hours of education, with a minimum of 16 hours of supervised clinical training. Most CNA programs can be completed in just four to twelve weeks.

LPN/LVN Certificate or Diploma

An LPN/LVN certificate is for students who want to enter the nursing field without the time and cost of earning a college degree. In contrast to a CNA diploma, the LPN certificate represents mastery of a more comprehensive body of knowledge. In many states, LPNs and LVNs qualify to supervise CNAs.

Most LPN/LVN certificates can be completed in about 12 months, though your timing may vary. State-approved programs provide the number of clinical hours necessary to meet the certification requirements of your state. Depending on your criteria, programs can range between seven and 24 months.

Associate Degree in Nursing

An ADN from an accredited nursing school is a good choice if you want to become an RN without the commitment of a four-year degree.

ADNs typically require around two years to complete. State-approved programs will include the extensive on-site clinical training that aligns with your state’s requirements for licensing.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a four-year degree designed for RNs who want to pursue supervisory roles and qualify for higher-paying nursing jobs.

Traditional BSN programs require four years of full-time study. Students who have LPN or RN licensing, or a bachelor’s degree in a different field, might qualify for alternative BSN programs that could be completed in one to two years. Since so many working RNs pursue BSNs for career advancement, there are many flexible part-time and online options, though they may add to your time to completion.

Master of Science in Nursing

A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is a graduate program of study designed for nurses who want to practice in a specialized role known as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN).

Students who begin MSN programs with a BSN typically take about two years to complete their degree. If you’re pursuing an MSN without BSN credentials or with a bachelor’s in another field, you can expect roughly three years.

Everyone will have a different path based on where they are in life. The best thing to do is get started today!.

Average RN Salary in California: See How Much CA Nurses Make

California ranks first among all states for registered nurse (RN) salaries, with RNs in the state earning an annual mean wage of $124,000. The nation's 10 highest paying metropolitan areas for RNs are all located in California, offering salaries of $124,000 to well over $155,000.

In addition to high rates of compensation, employment opportunities in the state continue to expand. California RNs can expect a projected job growth of 16.7% from 2018-2028, well above the national average.

Average California RN Salary: $124,000 (Ranks 1st among all states)
Hourly California RN Salary: $59.62
Projected California RN Employment Growth (2018-2028): 16.7%

Average RN Salaries in California

The demand for RNs continues to grow across the country. Becoming an RN in California can lead to especially rewarding employment opportunities. RNs in California make the top salaries in the nation, earning 49.8% higher than the national average. California RNs earn an average yearly salary of $124,000 and an average hourly pay rate close to $60.

Several factors contribute to the higher RN salary in California. A strong union movement for nurses in the state and the high cost of living keep salaries competitive. Licensed vocational nurses (LVN) in California are not authorized to administer the same level of patient care as their counterparts in other states, resulting in more job opportunities for RNs who can provide a broader scope of practice. In addition, the demand for RNs continues to grow due to nurse retirements and the increasing need for healthcare, especially among the state's older population.

Over 85% of RNs in California earn an average salary above $125,000 a year. RN salaries range from $78,070 among the bottom 10th percentile to $165,620 for the top 90th percentile, with a median of $125,340. Compensation rates vary by type of employer, location, degree level and specializations, and years of employment.