Are there any Canadians who completed their ADN and are now working in the USA?

RNGrad2006 · Aug 18, 2010

Yes, yes, and yes...I am doing what you are proposing to do...although graduated when there were plenty of jobs. I am originally from Vancouver, BC.

I am wondering if their are any Canadian RNs out there who completed their nursing training (Associates Degree) in the states and whether any of you are now working in the states.

Yes working in Arizona. I have heard the state with more jobs is Texas.

Here is the thing, if I want to go to nursing school here, there is a 2yr+ waiting list plus prereqs (semester to year) and then nursing school would be another 4 yrs!

I am considering attending school in the states and first completing an ADN program and then working for awhile and eventually getting my BSN (the final goal is to get my masters).

I am doing that. I actually got my LPN, then transition class, then ADN, then BSN, now working on my Masters. In Arizona employers help with tuition.

I know the job market is tough right now but I am open to relocating (anywhere in the states) because I will not be able to work in Canada. Also in 3-4 yrs the job market could soften up (I am being optimistic here).

Can't work in Canada due to lack of jobs? Or due to ADN?

Also if anyone has gone this route, what steps did you take? Can I write the NCLEX-RN, and if I get a job offer is it easy to get a TN Visa?

Yes, and yes....you will need the TN or work authorization in order to get a SSN.

Thank you for your time

You can PM me if you want more details.

Curiousgurl · Aug 18, 2010

First of all thank you for replying :bow:

The lack of jobs is what making is this decision really difficult, although through my research suggests that there will be jobs in the future. Nursing is still on top of many lists for careers for the future...

I am still so confused...I've read posts on here where Nurses can't find jobs, and then I see job postings (for experienced nurses), and I've read than many nurses will retire and that the population is aging etc. A recruiter advised me that job market will soften up in the future. I have until November 2 (that is the application deadline for foreign students). If I do decide to pursue this then I would start the prereqs January 2011.

I'd go to Texas if there were jobs there. Also I am in my early 30s and if I go back to school I want be able to find a job---it does not matter where or what kind of nursing. I know I have to begin somewhere and gain experience.

I would not be able to work in Canada if I only have an ADN. I suppose I could continue on with my BSN and then look for a job in both countries but I wanted to get some work experience and be financially be able to afford to continue my education.

Again thanks for your input, I will definitely be PMing you in the future (I need 15 posts to be able to PM).