Nursing Degree Applications Up but Demand Still Exceeds Supply
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Reference Education -> subcategory College.
Nursing Degree Applications Surge, But Demand Still Outpaces Supply
Overview
Despite a surge in applications to nursing programs, the demand for nursing degrees still surpasses available slots. Here’s a closer look at the current situation and potential solutions.
The Growing Demand
For the fifth consecutive year, nursing schools have seen an increase in applicants, according to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. However, this rise in interest can't keep pace with the demand, as over 32,000 students were turned away last year.
The U.S. Department of Labor has highlighted Registered Nursing as a leading career for job growth. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that over one million new and replacement nurses will be needed by 2012, emphasizing the urgency of this issue.
Exploring Alternatives
Many students are exploring alternative paths or institutions for their nursing education. A useful resource is [Best Nursing Degree](http://www.best-nursing-degree.info), where students can discover nursing programs beyond their local public universities.
Accelerated and Part-Time Programs
An increasingly popular route is the accelerated bachelor's nursing degree, designed for students who already hold a degree in another field. This intensive program allows completion of a BSN in 12 to 18 months and has grown from 31 schools in 1990 to 168 today. The program is demanding, with 40 hours of class and lab time weekly, but financial aid options like grants and loans can alleviate the $30,000 cost.
For those needing flexibility, part-time studies offer a viable option. These students may take one or two classes per semester, extending their education beyond the typical four years.
The Reward
Nursing graduates can expect starting salaries of $45,000 and higher, with opportunities for advancement to nurse practitioner roles and beyond.
Given the ongoing gap between supply and demand, prospective students are encouraged to explore nursing degrees and find suitable programs through resources like [Best Nursing Degree](http://www.best-nursing-degree.info).
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Nursing Degree Applications Up but Demand Still Exceeds Supply.
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