Career Transition

Not to deter you away from nursing, but remember that nursing does not equal an automatic job.

A lot of people seem to think this.

@Turd Ferguson-

I completely understand nursing doesn not guarantee an automatic job. Initially, I was interested in going into the medical field in undergrad, however, I took a different path. Now- I am kicking myself in the butt. I will admit I am a little concerned about my decision, but that is because it's the completely opposite direction from what I originally started.

Just do an Allnurses search on the topic. Upper right.

Where are all the jobs?

Unemployed nurses

Nursing shortage?

Can't find a job

There is no nursing shortage. There are few jobs for new nurses. If you have debt that means you should not drill the hole deeper. Thousands of new graduate nurses are unable to become employed. Yes it is that bad. If you have the funds, go for it. If not, wait a few years to see if things get better.

Many 2nd degree and career folks here. I am one of them. Yes you can do it. I graduated with highest honors .

I think it depends on where you are located and if you are willing to move. I live in a low income rural community and nurses are in short supply. Here an ADN is just as good as a BSN even if you want to move in to director/administrator rolls.

I was in business for 15 years before going back to nursing school. I feel like I'm doing OK, and have survived well working in ICU.

If you can go to school full time without working I'd suggest you look at 2nd degree BSN programs. They run anywhere from 12-18 months or so and you graduate with a BSN rather than an ADN.

Depending on where you live, the BSN might look better to prospective employers (magnet hospitals, etc). I don't think that the quality of care that you'll deliver as a grad nurse will be different whether you have a BSN or ADN, but I do think it might make you more marketable. And as someone already mentioned, even nursing jobs are tight.

I live in one of the most economically depressed parts of the country and here the BSN;s seem to get picked up faster than ADNs. Just something to think about.

@onaclearday, sneakysnake,313RN - Thanks for all your advice! This information has given me a better perspective of the nursing field & opportunities that are available. I'm currently living in the Research Triangle area (Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill, NC)- so I am surrounded by various medical facilities. I believe I am looking more towards the ADN/RN program at this time, but you never know that may change. If you all have any additional comments or advice-please feel free!