Canadian hoping to study nursing in Texas and then work

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Hi guys,

I have been living in Texas for over a year. I have two degrees and am a trained elementary teacher. Finding a teaching job here has been unsuccessful with no hope in sight. On top of this, I've been thinking about a career change anyway. I'm hoping to complete the second degree BSN from University of Houston-Victoria. I'm simply trying to figure out if spending the thousands of dollars (ill be charged international tuition -ouch) and the time would be worth it. I'll need to be sponsored for a position and with the saturation around the houston area (I live in richmond) I'm afraid HR will overlook me because I'll need sponsorship. However, my husband is here on a TN visa and the process for that is EXTREMELY simple and cheap, do any of you know if hospitals would sponsor me for such a visa?

Sorry for the long winded question, I'm trying to gain as much info on my situation as possible before I undertake another degree. I'm 28 and far too young to keep up this housewife business (I'm going crazy, essentially). I have no issues with volunteering to try to get my foot in the door or anything else I might need to gain experience. Any info on program requirements, sponsorship of visas, or anything you might think I need to know would be much appreciated!!

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Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

I'm afraid it may be just about impossible to obtain employer sponsorship because the Houston area is saturated with new BSN grads. The only visa sponsorships I have heard about in years are for high-tech & software developers. Nursing is not the best option - especially in light of the tuition costs that you will need to incur. Have you already gotten your teacher certification for Texas?

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

If you gain a BSN you may be successful with a TN visa provided you could locate an employer/job offer. Employers are more willing to go TN visa route if familiar as it is low cost (just a job offer) as opposed to the high costs and long wait associated with H1B visa and PR sponsorship.

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Thank you both for your replies! No, I didn't bother to get my teaching certificate here. After hearing my chances and speaking with some principals in the area, I felt it would be a waste of time. Many of the school districts are in no way sponsoring any time soon.

I am definitely still on the fence about it all, if it wasn't for the international tuition I would do it In A heartbeat anyway. Thanks again guys!

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