Nursing School Grants

Students who receive nursing school grants can use them to pay tuition costs, buy books, and apply toward living expenses. Advanced nursing students may be interested in research grants. Some nursing school grant funding organizations may allow you to use grants to pay down what you already owe on your college education.  Grants are an excellent resource for students who need additional financial assistance.

There are many ways to get grants and the following below are examples of sources that offer grants for nursing school.

National Grant Programs

Many grants are available from federal and national sources. Grants specifically for nursing school are limited so they are highly competitive. Since grants generally do not have to be paid back, nursing students try to get these before applying for student loans which do have to be repaid.  Following is an example of national organizations that offer grants for nursing school.

National Association of School Nurses

Individuals currently employed as a school nurse and enrolled in an accredited advanced nursing program can apply for the General Research Grant or the Directed Research Grant offered by the Association. Only current Association members are eligible to apply for financial assistance. Research must focus on school nursing topics such as improving delivery of nursing care in a school setting. Grant awards range between $2,500 and $5,000.  Applications are due to the Association by the end of February annually. These grants are ideal for graduate and post-graduate nursing students who may be required to complete a research project as part of their degree requirements. For grant applications, contact the Association at 8484 Georgia Avenue, Suite 420, Silver Spring, MD 20910 or by calling (240) 821-1130.

Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission

The Commission, in partnership with the National Association of Nephrology Technicians/Technologists (NANT), offers the Career Mobility Scholarship to nursing students who are currently certified nephrology nurses and plan to obtain a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing. Students must be enrolled in accredited nursing programs to qualify for this education grant.  Awards are made based on academic potential, commitment to the field of nephrology, work history, personal essay, and letters of recommendation. Typical award amount do not exceed $2,000. Applications are due to the Commission by the end of July annually. For applications, contact NANT at P.O. Box 2307, Dayton, OH 45401.

State Grant Programs

Additional grant resources are available from state government and state-wide organizations including foundations. State grants that are funded by the federal government may have more restrictions than grants offered by foundations. But both can significantly lower your education costs if you are fortunate enough to receive a grant.  The following is an example of a grant program administered by a state organization.

West Virginia Health Sciences Scholarship Program

Students who are residents of West Virginia and enrolled in accredited nursing programs in the stay may be eligible for education grants offered through the Program. Nursing students must commit to work as a nurse in a rural community in the state determined to be underserved. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, financial need, and letters of recommendation. Only students in their final year of study to become a nurse practitioners or physician assistant are eligible for this opportunity. Award amounts are $10,000.  Applications are typically due by mid-October annually.  For applications and guidelines, contact the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission at (304) 558-0530.

Educational Institute Grants for Nursing

There are various grant opportunities available through colleges and universities. Grants are more frequently available to graduate nursing students than undergraduate students.  You can easily find out if your school offers grants by visiting the financial aid office or the nursing department.  The following is a school that offers grants to nursing students.

La Salle University (Pennsylvania)

Students enrolled in the University’s nursing programs are eligible to apply for various grants including the Pennsylvania Higher Education Nursing Education Grant and the Supplemental Nursing Education Grant.  Students must be enrolled full-time to qualify for these grants. To be considered, students are required to submit a copy of their Student Aid Report (SAR) and complete a Common Scholarship Application. Award amounts vary. Students can get the applications from Student Financial Services.

Employer-Sponsored Grants for Nursing

Healthcare companies may offer grants for nursing school to employees, their dependents, and community members.  Large hospital systems are an excellent source of grant opportunities. You can find out if a local employer administers a grant program for local residents interested in attending nursing school by contacting their human resources department.  The following is an example of a grant program sponsored by an employer.

Tri-City Hospital Foundation

The Foundation offers education grants for nursing school to employees of the Tri-City Medical Center who are currently involved in nursing in some capacity.  Scholarships are awarded based on financial need and potential for success. Award amounts vary. Employees can submit applications at any time.  For applications and guidelines, contact the Foundation at 4002 Vista Way, Oceanside, CA 92056.

Community-Based Grants for Nursing

Students interested in nursing school may be able to obtain grants from local sources such as nonprofit healthcare organizations or foundations. If you are attending school in the same community you live, you have a higher chance of receiving grants for nursing school from local organizations.  Following is an example of a funder that offers grants to local nursing students.

McFarland Charitable Foundation

The Foundation’s Grant Program is only open to graduating high school seniors planning to pursue a nursing career. Applicants must enroll in accredited nursing programs in Illinois.  Grants are awarded based on academic potential, financial need, and willingness to work in the community after graduation. Grant awards can cover three years of study so students are obligated to work at least three years in Havana. Award amounts vary. Applications can be submitted any time.  For applications and guidelines, contact the Foundation, c/o Havana National Bank – Trust Department, P.O. Box 200,112 South Orange Street, Havana, IL 62644.  If you have questions, you can contact the Trust Department at (309) 543-3361.

Nursing school grants are a must with the high cost of education. Grants can help supplement scholarships and loans so that you can get as much of your education paid for without breaking the bank.

Nursing Education Grants

Why Students Need Nursing Education Grants
Nursing school can be an expensive undertaking and nursing education grants help defray costs. Beginning your education can be exciting but having to worry about money is distracting and stressful. Education grants can lower your out-of-pocket costs as well as the amount you may need to take out in loans.

Nursing students can locate grant opportunities from multiple sources such as those that follow below.

National Nursing Grants

The federal government as well as several national organizations offer grants for nursing education.  These grants are intended to help current nurses and nursing students pay for the training they need to meet the high demand for qualified nurses in this country. The following is an example of a national education grant opportunity for nursing students.

National Association of Orthopedic Nurses Foundation

Nursing students who are members of the Association can apply for education grants from the Foundation for online degrees. Specifically, students must be enrolled in the Grand Canyon University’s College of Nursing or College of Health Sciences to be considered. Awards are made based on academic scores and financial need. Grant amounts are $2,000. Online applications are made directly through the University.  Students can learn more by contacting the Foundation at 390 North Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009 or by calling (678) 341-0809.

State Nursing Grants

Students can apply for grants that are available from their state’s department of higher education. Frequently these grants will be restricted to college and universities but several states have opportunities for students to apply for directly.  While state grants generally do not have to be repaid, they may include a service requirement. If you do not meet your commitment to work in the state after graduation, you may have to pay back the grant.  Following is an example of a state program that offers grants to nursing students.

Utah Nurses Foundation

The Foundation offers the Nursing Grant-in-Aid Scholarship to Utah residents enrolled in an undergraduate nursing program to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing or accepted into a graduate nursing program.  Only students with at least a 3.0 GPA can apply. Grants are awarded based primarily on financial need and letters of recommendation. Award amounts vary and applications must be submitted by the end of May and September annually.  For applications and guidelines, contact the Foundation, c/o Utah Nurses Association, 4505 Wasatch Boulevard, Suite 330-B, Salt Lake City, UT 84124 or by calling (801) 272-4510.

Educational Institute Nursing Grants

The vast majority of financial assistance offered through colleges and universities are scholarships and loans.  However, there are also grants available which often work the same as scholarships. They are to be used by students to pay for tuition. Following is an example of institutional-based nursing grants.

Walla Walla University (Washington)

Students enrolled in the University’s School of Nursing have access to 11 education grant opportunities including the Peggy Kaye Nursing Grant.  This particular grant program is open to students attending the Portland campus of the University. Awards are made based on academic potential, career goals, and documented financial need.  Award amounts vary and are renewable.  Interested students can contact the School of Nursing directly for an application.

Employer-Sponsored Nursing Grants

Local employers may offer nursing grants to employees and community members.  If you are not employed and are considered a dependent of your parents, you may still be eligible for a grant if your parent’s employer allows children of employees to receive grants.  The following is an example of an employer that offers nursing grants.

Mary Rutan Foundation

Ohio nursing students may be eligible for education grants from the Foundation. Students must live in Logan County, Ohio to qualify for financial assistance. Awards are made based on academic scores, letters of recommendation, and documented financial need. Students will be interviewed by Foundation employees. Preference is given to employees and volunteers of the Mary Rutan Hospital. Applications are due to the Foundation by the end March annually. For applications, students can contact the Foundation at 205 Palmer Avenue, Bellefontaine, OH 43311.

Community-Based Nursing Grants

Nursing students should also consider community organizations that offer grants.  The most obvious is foundations. Most foundations are legally prohibited from making grants to individuals but they may have “grant” opportunities alongside scholarships. For foundations, education grants and scholarships typically mean the same thing.  Following is an example of a foundation that offers education grants to nursing students.

Borton-Ryder Memorial Trust

Students enrolled in the Newman Memorial School of Nursing in Emporia, Kansas may be eligible for an education grant from the Trust.  Undergraduate and graduate nursing students can apply for grants which are awarded based on academic potential and financial need.  Award amounts vary and are not renewable. Grant applications are accepted at any time.  For applications and guidelines, students can call (800) 257-0332.

Nursing education grants, like scholarships, help students pay for nursing school.  While the rewards of a nursing degree are tremendous, the financial cost of an education can be overwhelming.  Education grants help reduce expenses for nursing students.

Neuroscience Nursing Scholarships

Where to Apply for Neuroscience Nursing Scholarships
Nursing students interested in neuroscience nursing can apply for financial assistance, including neuroscience nursing scholarships, to help pay for their education. Scholarships can typically be used to cover tuition costs and other education-related expenses as determined by the funding agency. Students can apply for as many scholarships as needed to get as much of their education paid for as possible.

Following below are various programs that nursing students can apply to for scholarships.

National Neuroscience Scholarships

Several national organizations exist that offer neuroscience scholarships to nursing students.  This is a field that has a critical need for qualified nurses. National organizations help set standards for this nursing field of study and provide financial assistance to students to encourage them to pursue careers in neuroscience nursing.  The following is an example of a national organization that offers scholarships to neuroscience nursing students.

Neuroscience Nursing Foundation

Neuroscience nurses and nursing students who are members of the American Association of Neuroscience Nurses may be eligible for scholarships from the Foundation. In addition to small travel scholarships, neuroscience nurses can apply to the Seed Research Grant program for financial assistance. The grants are intended to fund the feasibility phase of research projects. Award amounts are $2,500 and applications are typically due by the end of August annually. Graduate and post-graduate students may be interested in this opportunity if a research project is part of their degree requirements. Students can obtain applications by contacting the Foundation, c/o American Association of Neuroscience Nurses, 4700 West Lake Avenue, Glenview, IL 60025 or by calling (847) 375-6384.

State Neuroscience Scholarships

Nursing students who are residents of a particular state may be eligible for scholarships offered by that state’s government or other organizations that provide state-wide services. Scholarships are intended to encourage students to remain in the state after graduation.  Some financial assistance programs may require a service commitment from scholarship recipients.

Educational Institute Neuroscience Scholarships

Nursing schools often offer scholarships to enrolled students. As soon as you are accepted into a school, you should ask about available scholarships.  You can learn about financial assistance opportunities from the financial aid office as well as the nursing department. Each scholarship will have specific eligibility and submission requirements that must be met for you to be considered for assistance. Following is an example of an institutional-based nursing scholarship.

Boston College (Massachusetts)

Students enrolled in the William F. Connell School of Nursing are eligible for numerous scholarships. The Haley Scholarship is specifically for neuroscience nursing students who are employed by Brigham and Women’s Hospital.  Applications are due by the end of March annually.  Only graduate and doctoral nursing students are eligible for this scholarship.  Awards are made based on a personal essay, commitment to neuroscience nursing, and future goals.  Award amounts vary.  Students interested in this opportunity can contact the Graduate Office at (617) 552-4928 for applications.

Employer-Sponsored Neuroscience Scholarships

Employers are an often overlooked source of scholarships.  Whether they are your employer, your parent’s employer, or just a major employer in your community, they may offer scholarships that you can apply for to help pay for nursing school.  Healthcare employers are more likely than other employers to offer scholarships specifically for neuroscience nursing.

Mills-Peninsula Hospital Foundation

Students interested in neuroscience nursing, including employees of Mills Peninsula Hospital, are eligible for scholarships from the Foundation.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic potential, financial need, work record, and letters of recommendation. Award amounts vary and there is no deadline for applications. For applications and guidelines, contact the Foundation at 1783 El Camino Real, Burlingame, CA 94010.

Community-Based Neuroscience Scholarships

Nursing students should consider local community organizations when seeking scholarship opportunities. Many community groups, such as rotary clubs and chambers of commerce, offer scholarships to students who plan to get a degree in a field of study that is in high demand.  Foundations are another resource for local scholarships.  The following is an example of a funder that offers neuroscience scholarships to nursing students.

Loretta A. Wells Nursing Scholarship Trust

Students who live in Brown County, Wisconsin and plan to pursue a degree in neuroscience nursing are eligible for scholarships from the Trust.  Assistance is available to undergraduate students only.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, future goals, and letters of recommendation.  Award amounts vary. Applications must be submitted by the end of April annually. Students will be interviewed as part of the application process.  For applications and guidelines, you can contact the Trust, c/o JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., P.O. Box 1308, Milwaukee, WI 53201. Applications must be returned to the Trust, c/o JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., 200 West College Avenue, Appleton, WI 54911. If you have general questions, you can call (414) 735-1382.

There are many ways to identify and secure neuroscience nursing scholarships.  The more you identify and apply for, the higher your chances of getting scholarships that will help pay for your nursing school education.

Money for Nursing School

Types of Money for Nursing School
Nursing students need money for nursing school to help pay for tuition, books, and fees as well as living expenses. Getting an education is not cheap.  But the more you know about the different ways you can get money for your education, the less stressful paying for nursing school will be, particularly if you use this information to go after the money that is available. All nursing students are eligible for some type of financial assistance which could be merit-based or need-based.  Undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate nursing students can tap into these resources to help defray education costs.

Scholarships for Nursing School

One of the best types of financial assistance you can get is nursing scholarships because you do not have to pay them back.  Scholarships are available from all levels of government, nursing schools, foundations and other community groups, employers, and healthcare companies. Each scholarship program has specific eligibility requirements as well as application guidelines, typical award amounts, and deadlines for submission.  Following is an example of a scholarship for nursing school.

TYLENOL® Scholarship Program

Nursing students can apply for the TYLENOL® Future Care Scholarship which is offered by the product manufacturer. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, leadership potential, community services, and extracurricular activities. Undergraduate and graduate nursing students who have at least one year of study remaining are eligible for this scholarship. Students must attend an accredited nursing program. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, work experience, community service, future goals, and personal essay. Award amounts range from $5,000 to $10,000. Applications are typically due by the end of May annually and must be submitted electronically. The Program is administered by International Scholarship and Tuition Services, Inc. (ISTI) who students can call at (866) 851-4275 if they have questions.

Grants for Nursing School

Another “free” source of financial aid is grants.  Like scholarships, grants generally do not have to be repaid to the funder. Unlike most scholarships, grants are not restricted to education costs. Nurses and nursing students can apply for grants to pay for research or healthcare programs.  In many ways, grants are much more flexible than scholarships.  Students can apply for grants from the government, foundations, community organizations, and even their nursing school.  The application process for grants often takes more time and thought because a proposal detailing how you plan to use the money is required.  Following is an example of a grant for nursing school.

Columbia University-Presbyterian Hospital School of Nursing Alumni Association

Students who have graduated from the Columbia University School of Nursing may be eligible for graduate and postdoctoral financial grants. These funds can be used for advanced education at any university including Columbia University. The Nursing Research Grant program is also available to students and alumni. Grants are made based on academic scores and personal essays.  Award amounts vary.  Applications are due to the Association by the end of February annually. For applications and guidelines, contact the Association at 7070 Xavier Drive, Suite 314, Yonkers, NY 10704 or by calling (914) 966-3699.

Loans for Nursing School

Scholarships and grants are highly competitive.  In fact, most students may only receive one or two during the course of their education.  To cover the remainder of their education costs, students rely on loans which are available from many sources.  Students typically have to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) when applying or accepted to a nursing school.  The school will use the FAFSA to develop a financial aid package that includes federal loans such as the Stafford Loan.  Each loan will detail repayment requirements and time when interest begins to accrue.  Following are examples of loans for nursing school.

Missouri Professional and Practical Nursing Student Loan Program

Nursing students with documented financial need may be eligible for this loan program which is available to both undergraduate and graduate students. Only full-time students who have lived in Missouri for at least twelve months can apply to this loan program for financial assistance. LPN students can receive up to $2,500 while all other professional nursing students can receive $5,000. To be considered, nursing students must complete the Health Professional Student Loan Universal Application. Applications are available from the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services which administers all state-funded health professional student loan programs.  You can also obtain an application directly from your nursing school.

Smith Educational Memorial Fund

Graduating high school seniors who live in Kosciusko County in Indiana and plan to pursue a nursing degree at an accredited nursing school may be eligible for a loan from the Fund.  Loans are made based on academic potential and financial need.  Loan amounts vary and are not intended to be a student’s primary source of financial aid.  Interest does not accrue on the loan until after the student graduates. Repayment can extend to ten years.  Students interested in this opportunity can contact the Fund, c/o PNC Bank, P.O. Box 94651, Cleveland, OH 44101.  Completed applications are to be submitted to the Fund at 101 West Washington Street, Suite 600E, Indianapolis, IN 46204.  If you have general questions, you can call (317) 267-7466.

Work-Study, Assistantships, and Fellowship Programs for Nursing School

If you still need to work to pay for nursing school, you can check with your school about work-study opportunities for undergraduate students, assistantships for graduate students, and fellowships for doctoral students. In exchange for working at the school or off-campus, all or a portion of your tuition costs will be waived.  Assistantships can be particularly rewarding because you will be doing something in your field of study. Research and teaching assistantships are the two most common types of financial assistance opportunities at colleges.  Following is an example of a nursing school that offers work-study opportunities to students.

Castleton State College (Vermont)

Students enrolled in the College’s nursing program may be eligible for the Federal Work-Study program which is funded by the college from federal funds and local employers. Students may be approved to work on or off-campus. Students have the opportunity to find their own job that is then approved by the Federal Work-Study program.  This allows students to match jobs to their nursing education goals. Nursing students interested in this opportunity can contact the Student Services Center at (802) 468-6070.

Money for nursing school is available if you take the time to look for it.  Gather as much information as possible to determine the best way to finance your nursing school education.

Minority Grants

Minority Grants for Eligible Nursing Students
Nursing students who qualify for minority grants can use the awarded funds to help pay for nursing school or for activities related to the nursing profession such as research. Grants are available from many sources, and generally, there are no restrictions on how many grants you can receive.

Following below are examples of different types of grant programs for minority students.

National Grant Programs for Minority Students

Many national organizations offer grants for minority students pursuing a career in nursing.  Each grant program has specific eligibility requirements that must be met for students to qualify for assistance.  Grants can be more difficult to apply for than scholarships because of the type of information requested. It is not uncommon for students to have to include a grant proposal with their application.  The following is an example of a national organization that offers grants to minority nursing students.

American Association of Critical-Care Nurses

Minority nurses and nursing students who are members of the Association are eligible for a variety of grants and scholarships including the Impact Research Grant and Continuing Professional Development Scholarship programs.  Each financial assistance opportunity has specific eligibility and submission requirements that include personal essays and letters of recommendation. Nearly 25% of all assistance is awarded to qualified minority nurses and students. Awards range from $1,500 to $50,000.  Deadlines vary for each program. Students can obtain applications and guidelines by contacting the Association at 101 Columbia Avenue, Aliso Viejo, CA 92655 or by calling (800) 899-2226.

State Grant Programs for Minority Students

There are grant programs available for minority students attending accredited nursing schools in specific states.  State governments and other organizations offer financial grants to encourage minority students to enter the nursing field to help address the shortage of nurses in underrepresented areas.  The following is an example of an organization that offers grants state-wide to eligible students.

Iowa United Methodist Foundation

Nursing students who attend accredited nursing programs in Iowa may be eligible for assistance from the Foundation.  The Justine E. Granner Memorial Scholarship offers financial grants to ethnic minority students. Awards are made after evaluating academic scores, letters of recommendation, and documented financial need.  There is some preference given to students who are graduates of high schools in the state.  Award amounts are $1,000. Applications are due to the Foundation by mid-March annually. For applications, students can contact the Foundation at 2301 Rittenhouse Street, Des Moines, IA 50321.

Educational Institute Grant Programs for Minority Students

Minority students may be eligible for grants from the college or university they attend.  These grants may or may not be specific to nursing. You can learn about grant opportunities through the student services office, the financial aid office, and the nursing department. The following is an example of a school that offers grants to minority students.

Agnes Scott College (Georgia)

Students who are enrolled in the nursing program have access to numerous financial assistance opportunities.  Hispanic female students can apply for the Goizueta Foundation Scholarship which is an education grant that pays for tuition as well as room and board expenses. Awards are made according to academic scores, leadership ability, personal essay, and financial need.  Application deadline for this particular opportunity is mid-January. Students can learn more by contacting the Office of Admission at (404) 471-6285.

Employer-Sponsored Grant Programs for Minority Students

Major employers may offer grants to minority students to encourage their entrance into a particular field of study. This occurs when minority students are underrepresented in an area such as nursing.  Employers will have specific requirements that students must meet to qualify for grants.

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center

To increase the presence of minority nurses at the Center, minority nursing students are encouraged to apply for the William K. Schubert Minority Nursing Program which provides education grants to eligible students attending an accredited nursing school.  Students must plan to obtain a bachelor or master degree in nursing. Attendance can be part-time or full-time.  Eligible applicants are male nursing students and ethnic minority nursing students. Grants are awarded based on academic scores, career potential, letters of recommendation, and intent to work in area upon graduation. Award amounts are $2,750 and applications must be submitted by the end of April annually.  For applications, you can contact the Center’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion at (513) 803-6416.

Community-Based Grant Programs for Minority Students

Several types of community organizations offer grants to minority students.  Civic groups as well as nonprofit organizations may have grant programs that are either open to minority students or that only minority students are eligible to apply to for funds.  Community foundations are a great resource for grants to minority students.  The primary stipulation of any community-based grant opportunity is that the recipient be a resident of that community.  Following is an example of a funder that offers grants to local minority students.

Grobel Scholarship Trust

Minority nursing students may be eligible for financial grants from the Trust.  Students must be enrolled in accredited nursing schools.  Only graduates of from Valley County high schools in Montana qualify for assistance. Awards are made based on academic scores, personal essay, and letters of recommendation.  Award amounts vary.  Applications are due to the Trust by June annually.  For applications and guidelines, students can contact the Trust at 122 East Pembroke Avenue, Hampton, VA 23669.  Completed applications are to be sent to the Trust at P.O. Box 191, Glasgow, MT 59230.  If you have questions, you can call (406) 228-8231.

Many resources are available for students interested in minority grants. Grants can be used for a variety of purposes including tuition for nursing school.

Male Nursing Grants

Male Nursing Grants for Education and Research
There are many opportunities to apply for male nursing grants. Most of these grants are intended to fund education and research activities of male nurses and nursing students. They provide an incentive to encourage men to enter the female-dominate nursing field.

The following below are examples of different types of grant programs that male nursing students may apply to for financial assistance.

National Nursing Grants for Male Students

There are multiple national grant programs that male nursing students may qualify for depending upon specific eligibility requirements. Grants are offered for a variety of activities and do not have to be paid back as long as the funds are used as intended by the funder.  The following is an example of a national organization that awards education grants to male nursing students.

Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. (NEF)

Male registered nurses who are looking to continue their education can apply for financial grants from NEF. Students must be enrolled in an accredited graduate or post-graduate program and hold membership in an approved nursing association. Awards are made based on academic scores, commitment to the nursing profession, and future goals.  Students are required to maintain at least a 3.6 GPA. Part-time and full-time students can apply for assistance. This opportunity does have a $20 application fee. Award amounts vary and applications are to be submitted by the end of February annually. For applications, contact NEF at 304 Park Avenue South, Floor 11, New York, NY 1001 or by calling (212) 590-2443.

State Nursing Grants for Male Students

State programs are also available that award financial grants to male nursing students. Those that offer the greatest benefits are funded by state governments who seek to address nursing shortages. Most state opportunities are gender neutral. The following are examples of state programs that male nursing students can apply to for financial assistance.

Nevada Health Services Corps

Male nursing students who are residents of Nevada may be eligible for financial assistance from the Corps. At the time of application, students must be primary care certified nurse practioners or physical assistants, certified nurse-midwives, or psychiatric nurse specialists to qualify for assistance. Approved students receive service-obligated financial grants. Upon graduation, students must work in an underserved area in Nevada.  Award amounts vary. There is no deadline for application submission. For applications and guidelines, students can contact the Nevada Office of Rural Health at 701 Walnut, Elko, NV 89801 or by calling (775) 738-3828.

Educational Institute Nursing Grants for Male Students

Male nursing students can learn about nursing grants they may be eligible to apply for directly from their nursing school.  The college or university itself may offer these grant opportunities or can refer students to grant programs that are outside of the school.  Educational grants may be available through the school’s financial aid office or the nursing department. The following is an example of a nursing school that offers grants for male nursing students.

Clemson University (South Carolina)

Students enrolled in the School of Nursing are eligible for a variety of scholarships and grants to help pay for their education.  Male nursing students may qualify for the James M. Boswell Scholarship in Nursing if they live in Horry County.  The Ellen Germain Kingsland Memorial Scholarship is open to nursing students who live anywhere in South Carolina.  The South Carolina Need-Based Grant is available to male nursing students who are state residents with documented financial need. Award amounts and deadlines for application submission vary by financial assistance program. Students interested in these opportunities can contact the Financial Aid office at (864) 656-2280 for applications.

Employer-Sponsored Nursing Grants for Male Students

It is common for major employers, particularly healthcare employers, to administer grant programs that male nursing students can apply to for financial assistance.  These programs can be specific to education or research activities.  The following is an example of an employer that offers grants to local male nursing students.

Archbold Medical Center

The Center actively seeks qualified nurses and offers the J.D. Archbold Memorial Hospital Scholarship to students interested in a nursing career. Male nursing students are encouraged to apply for this opportunity. Education grants are awarded based on academic scores, employment work, and letters of recommendation. Only students who have two or fewer years left before completing degree requirements qualify for this opportunity. Although this is a grant program, there is a service commitment required. Students must work for a specified period time at the Archbold Memorial Hospital. Failure to meet the service obligation requires repayment of the grant plus interest. Award amounts vary.  Applications are accepted at any time.  For applications and guidelines, contact the Center’s Department of Education at (229) 228-2795.

Community-Based Nursing Grants for Male Students

There are a variety of community organizations that offer grants to male nursing students who live or work in the community.  Organizations may include membership groups, fraternities, or even local foundations.  The following is an example of a funder that offers grants to male nursing students.

North Valley Health Education Foundation

The Foundation offers grants to students, including male students, for undergraduate and graduate nursing education. Students can apply for financial assistance to attend Butte College or California State University, Chico.  Education grants are awarded based on academic scores, financial need, and letters of recommendation.  Award amounts vary as do deadlines for submission.  For applications and guidelines, contact the Foundation at 1354 East Avenue, Suite R, Chico, CA 95926.

Many resources exist for identifying and obtaining male nursing grants.  Grants, like scholarships, typically do not have to be repaid.  These financial resources can help pay for nursing school or research activities in the nursing field.

Long-Term Care Nursing Scholarships

Competitive Long-Term Care Nursing Scholarships
Nurses and students seek long-term care nursing scholarships to help pay for education costs including tuition, books, and fees. Current long-term care nurses return to school to obtain continuing education credits or to pursue an advanced degree. It is important for nurses to receive on-going training and education to maintain and build competencies.

The following below are examples of funding sources that offer scholarships to nurses and nursing students in this specialized field of study.

National Scholarships in Long-Term Nursing Care

Multiple national organizations offer scholarships to nurses as well as nursing students planning careers in long-term care nursing. Each program has individual eligibility and submission requirements that students must meet to qualify for financial assistance.  Following is an example of a national organization that offers nursing scholarships.

National Association Directors of Nursing Administration in Long Term Care

The Association offers the Upward Bound Scholarship to long-term care nurses interested in obtaining an advanced degree. Only certified nursing assistants, licensed practical nurses, and registered nurses are eligible for this opportunity. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, work experience, future plans, and letters of recommendation.  Applications are typically due to the Association by February annually.  For applications and guidelines, nurses can contact the Association by calling (513) 791-3679.

State Scholarships in Long-Term Nursing Care

There are also state organizations that offer scholarships to l nurses and nursing students. State governments as well as state-wide agencies offer these scholarships to encourage students to consider careers in long-term nursing care because the need is so high due to a shortage of qualified nurses. The following are examples of organizations that offer scholarships to eligible nursing students throughout a particular state.

Foundation for Quality Care, Inc.

The Foundation, affiliated with the New York State Health Facilities Association, administers two long-term nursing care scholarship programs. Students seeking licensure as registered nurses as well as current registered nurses enrolled in advanced degree programs in New York are eligible for the James D. Durante Scholarship. Students enrolled in practical nursing programs to become licensed LPNs can apply for a Ruth E. Stafford Scholarship. Scholarships are awarded based on a personal essay, commitment to long-term nursing care, and letters of recommendation.  Award amounts are $1,000.  Applications are typically due by mid-February annually. For applications and guidelines, contact the Foundation at 33 Elk Street, Suite 300, Albany, NY or by calling them at (518) 462-4800.

New Hampshire Long Term Care Foundation

Nursing students in New Hampshire may be eligible for scholarships offered through the Foundation. Students must be interested in long-term nursing care to qualify for scholarships. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, commitment to long-term nursing care, and letters of recommendation. Awards range from $1,000 to $5,000. Applications are typically available in April with a deadline by June annually. For applications and guidelines, contact the Foundation by calling them at (603) 226-4900.

Montana Health Care Association

Nurses and nursing students in Montana may be eligible to apply to the Association for a Donald E. Pizzini Memorial Nurse Scholarship.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, future goals, and letters of recommendation. There is a preference given to nurses who seek additional education and nursing students who want careers in long-term nursing care.  Award amounts are $1,000. The deadline for submission of applications is typically the end of February. For applications and guidelines, students can contact the Association at 36 South Last Chance Gulch – Suite A, Helena, MT 59601 or by calling (406) 443-2876.

Educational Institute Scholarships in Long-Term Nursing Care

Nursing students should contact their schools to determine if they offer scholarships for students specializing in long-term nursing care.  Start by contacting the school’s financial aid office but follow-up with the nursing department. Following is an example of a nursing program that offers scholarships to nursing students interested in long-term healthcare.

Texas State University

Nursing students may be eligible for scholarships through the College of Health Professions which houses the St. David’s School of Nursing and the Texas Long Term Care Institute.  Scholarships through the Institute vary in award amount. Assistance is available to graduate and undergraduate nursing students if they desire careers in long-term nursing care after graduation.  Interested students can learn more by contacting the College at (512) 245-3300 or the Institute at (512) 245-8234.

Employer-Sponsored Scholarships in Long-Term Nursing Care

Employers who provide long-term care may offer scholarships to employees or local residents interested in pursuing careers in long-term nursing care. Scholarships may include a service commitment that requires recipients to work for the employer for a specific period of time upon graduation.  To learn more about these opportunities, you can contact local employers such as hospitals, assisted living facilities and other long-term care organizations.

Community-Based Scholarships in Long-Term Nursing Care

Community resources are available for local nursing students seeking scholarships. These financial assistance opportunities often restrict eligibility to residents who plan to work in the community after graduating from college.  The following is an example of a funder that offers nursing scholarships in long-term nursing care.

Heartland Foundation

Nursing students who plan to work in long-term care can apply for the Velma Files Anderson Scholarship.  Students from various counties in Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, and Iowa are eligible to apply for financial assistance from the Foundation. Only nursing students in their senior year of an accredited long-term care nursing program qualify for this scholarship. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, work and community service record, personal essay, clinical evaluations, letters of recommendation, and documented financial need. Award amounts vary.  Applications are typically due to the Foundation by the end of June annually. Students interested in this opportunity can obtain an application by contacting the Foundation at 518 South Sixth Street, St. Joseph, MO 64501 or by calling (816) 271-7200.

As the need for qualified nurses continue to increase, the availability of long-term care nursing scholarships will also rise. Scholarships help pay for the cost of nursing school including tuition, books, and fees.

Women Scholarships

Finding the Best Women Scholarships
It can be challenging to identify the best women scholarships for nursing school.  It takes dedication and the ability to research to find scholarships that women can use for undergraduate and graduate nursing education as well as continuing nursing education.

Following are examples of scholarships available specifically for women interested in pursuing careers in nursing at any level. Women should consider other scholarship opportunities that may not target nursing students but can be awarded to women enrolled in accredited nursing programs.  Examples of these resources are provided for your information.

Jeannette Rankin Foundation

Low-income women who are at least 35 years old and interested in pursuing higher education as a means to improve their lives and that of their children may be eligible for financial assistance from the Foundation.  Men are not eligible to apply for this opportunity.  The Women’s Scholarship Fund is comprised of multiple scholarships including the Jeannette Rankin Award, Sunshine Lady Award, and the Mabel Davison Award.  Only undergraduate students who are U.S. citizens can apply – there are no geographic restrictions.  Scholarships are based on application information, personal essay that outlines goals, and documented financial need.  Applications are typically due to the Foundation by the beginning of March annually. Award amounts vary.  For applications, contact the Foundation at 1 Huntington Road, Suite 701, Athens, GA 30606 or by calling (706) 208-1211.

Educational Institute Scholarships for Women

When you initially receive admission to a nursing program, you are likely to request financial assistance through the school’s financial aid office. Although most nursing scholarships are gender neutral, donors who establish scholarship funds are permitted to restrict eligibility based on a variety of criteria, including gender. Following is an example of an educational institution that is not an all-female school and offers scholarships specifically for women.

Belmont University (Tennessee)

Female students enrolled in the School of Nursing through the Gordon E. Inman College of Health Sciences & Nursing may be eligible to apply for a Lois H. Cobb Endowed Scholarship to help with nursing school tuition.  Applicants must be at least 36 years old and be able to demonstrate financial need in order to apply.  Awards typically range from $500 to $2,000.  Applications are usually required to be submitted by mid-February annually and are available from the School of Nursing by calling (615) 460-6139.

Corporate Scholarship Programs for Women

Corporate scholarship programs differ from employer-sponsored nursing scholarship programs in the sense that corporate programs are more likely to focus on a cause or specific population.  In contrast, employer-sponsored scholarships are typically for employees or their children.  Scholarships available to the general public most often relate to the employer’s business mission.  Following is an example of a corporate scholarship program that women seeking nursing scholarships may be interested in applying for if they meet all eligibility requirements.

Talbots Charitable Foundation

The Foundation awards scholarships to women who have been accepted into any undergraduate degree program at a college or university, including nursing school, anywhere the country.  Applicants must be mature women who have commenced their education later in life as determined by having received their high school diploma or equivalent at least ten years prior to the date of application.  Scholarship awards are $10,000. The Talbots Scholarship Program is administered through Scholarship America who can be reached at (800) 537-4180.

Community-Based Scholarships for Women

Similar to nursing scholarships available through nursing schools, community-based nursing scholarships are usually gender neutral.  However, when donors establish scholarship funds at community foundations, it is not uncommon for them to include gender as an eligibility criterion.  This occurs most often when scholarships are created in memory of a particular nurse or other individual. Following are examples of community-based Funds that offer scholarships specifically for women.

Augustus & Kathleen Barrows Memorial and Trust Fund

The Fund awards scholarships to women who are under the age of 25 and are residents of Vermont.  Applicants must be accepted into an accredited program prior to application submission. Nursing students who meet these criteria can apply for financial assistance. Scholarships are awarded basic on academic scores, documented financial need, and letters of recommendation.  Award amounts vary but generally do not exceed $1,000.  Applications are generally due to the Fund by July annually.  For additional information, write the Fund at 271 South Union Street, Burlington, VT 05401.

Jean B. Duerr Memorial Fund

Female residents of Virginia enrolled in accredited educational programs, including nursing schools, in the state are the only eligible applicants for Fund scholarships.  Scholarships are awarded based primarily on financial need.  Award amounts are $1,500.  Completed scholarship applications are usually due to the Fund by March annually.  To get an application, contact the Fund, c/o The National Bank of Blacksburg, P.O. Box 90002, Blacksburg, VA 24062.   Submit applications to the Fund, c/o Chapter AU, Virginia – P.E.O. Sisterhood, P.O. Box 10415, Blacksburg, VA 24060.

The Arise Charitable Trust

The Trust provides scholarships to women who live in South Whidbey Island in Washington.  Men are ineligible applicants for this scholarship opportunity.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, documented need for financial assistance, and letters of recommendation.  All applicants must complete and include a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as well as their tax information with their scholarship applications. Nursing students who meet these eligibility requirements can apply to the Trust for assistance. Awards range from $200 to $2,000.  For applications, contact the Trust at P.O. Box, Freeland, WA 98249.

There are multiple approaches to take when seeking women scholarships to help pay for your nursing education. Think creatively when researching potential scholarship opportunities.  Use every resource available to get as much financial assistance as possible.

Women Nursing Scholarships

Where to Find Women Nursing Scholarships
Female nursing students who need additional financial assistance for their college education can apply for women nursing scholarships to help pay for education-related expenses.  These scholarships are designated solely for female students who are enrolled in accredited nursing programs. Eligibility requirements may include special areas of study within the nursing profession.

The following programs below are examples of nursing scholarships for women.

State Programs for Female Nursing Students

Most government scholarship programs are open to both genders.  However, there are other sources that provide state-wide assistance to female nursing students.  These include associations, nonprofit organizations, and foundations.  Following are examples of organizations that offer scholarships to female nursing students who live in a particular state.

P.E.O. Foundation – California State Chapter

This Foundation offers scholarships to women who are residents of California and had previously started their education but had to defer completion. Undergraduate and graduate nursing students who meet all eligibility requirements can apply for a Beverly Dye Anderson Scholarship. Scholarships are competitive and are awarded based on academic scores, work and community service record, and documented financial need. Typical award amounts range from $200 to $4,000.  Applications are usually due to the Foundation by February annually.  For applications and guidelines, students can contact the Chapter at 1887 Rim Rock Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651 or by calling (949) 376-1586.

Lily E. Drake Scholarship Trust

Female registered nurses who live in Oregon and are interested in advanced education may be eligible for scholarships from the Trust.  Only single women can apply for this opportunity. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, work history, and financial need. Award amounts vary.  Applications are accepted at any time.  For applications and guidelines, students can contact the Trust, c/o KeyBank N.A., 4900 Tiedeman Road, Brooklyn, OH 44144.  Completed applications are to be mailed to the Trust, c/o Key Trust Client Services, 127 Public Square, Cleveland, Ohio 44114.

University and College Nursing Scholarships for Women

Although most scholarships offered through educational institutions like nursing schools are available to both men and women, female nursing students can still inquiry about possible scholarships designated for women. Each scholarship will have specific eligibility and submission guidelines that must be met for students to be considered. Information about available scholarships is available at the nursing department and financial aid office. Following is an example of an educational institution that offers nursing scholarships for women.

University of Hartford (Connecticut)

Female nursing students enrolled in the College of Education, Nursing and Health Professions are eligible to apply for the Women’s Education and Leadership Fund Scholarship at the University. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores and demonstrated leadership qualities. Award amounts vary.  For applications and guidelines, students can contact the financial aid office, the College, or the Women’s Education and Leadership Fund whose phone number is (860) 768-4100.

Employer-Sponsored Nursing Scholarships for Women

Employers who offer nursing scholarships to employees and nursing students may be a source of funding for women seeking financial assistance for their education. Nursing students who receive scholarships are typically required to commit to work for the employer upon graduation. Female nursing students can learn about employer-sponsored nursing scholarships by contacting local healthcare employers such as hospitals and other healthcare organizations such as hospices.

Community-Based Nursing Scholarships for Women

Women enrolled in nursing programs may be eligible for scholarships that are available through local organizations.  Scholarships may be offered by healthcare organizations or foundations among other groups.  Following are examples of foundations that provide nursing school scholarships for women.

Blanch L. Dawson Nursing Scholarship Fund

Female nursing students who are residents of Boone County, Illinois may be eligible for scholarships from the Fund.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores and financial need.  Award amounts vary.  Deadline for submission is usually by the end of April each year. For applications, students can contact the Fund, c/o Alpine Bank, 6838 East State Street, Rockford, IL, 61108 or by calling (815) 547-5200.

Ralph B. Post Trust

Women enrolled in nursing school and live in the Village of Ballston Spa in New York may apply for Trust scholarships.  Scholarships are awarded based on merit and financial need.  There is no standard award amount. Applications are accepted at any time. Nursing students interested in this opportunity can contact the Trust, c/o Alliance Bank, N.A., 160 Main Street, Oneida, NY 13421.  Completed applications must be submitted to the Trust, c/o Post Memorial Scholarship Fund, Alliance Bank, 241 Main Street, Suite 200, Buffalo, NY 14203.  For general questions, students can call (716) 566-3032.

Jewish Foundation for Education of Women

The Foundation restricts scholarships to women.  Undergraduate and graduate nursing students who are residents of one of the lower eight counties in New York and are enrolled in a nursing school in the state can apply for financial assistance if they meet all eligibility requirements.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores and documented financial need. Typical award amounts are $5,000 but can vary.  Applications are usually due in the summer.  Students can contact the Foundation at 135 East 64 Street, New York, NY 10065 or by calling (212) 288-3931.

Nursing  Scholarships for Women Over 40

The AARP (Association of American Retired Persons) is  a non-profit organiztion committed to improving the way people over 50 years old are viewed and how they live. The AARP Women’s Scholarship Program is aimed to help fund woman over 40, who do not have sufficient monetary support, to acquire new skills and education. If you are a woman applying to nursing school and are over 40 years old, then this women’s scholarship program was meant for you – assuming you have limited financial resources. You could use it if admitted to any accredited nursing college or university.

Students have multiple opportunities to secure women nursing scholarships. Research each source to determine eligibility fit and apply to as many as possible.  Nursing scholarships are critical in helping to pay for your nursing education.

Federal Grants for Nursing Students

Federal Grants for Nursing Students and Nurses
There are many reasons nurses and nursing students should consider federal grants. They can be used for a multitude of purposes such as paying for education or getting funding to implement a research project.  Regardless of the reason, grants from the federal government typically do not have to be repaid as long as grant agreement requirements have been met.

Following below are grant programs administered by the federal government that might be of interest to nursing students and nurses.

Federal Nursing Education Grants

Multiple federal grant opportunities exist to help nursing students pay for their education.  Unlike loans, grants generally do not have repayment requirements. There may be stipulations on how you can use the grant money which will be outlined in your award letter or grant agreement. The following federal program offers nursing education grants to eligible students.

Indian Health Scholarship Program (IHS)

Nursing students who are American Indian or Alaska Natives can apply for education grants to help pay for nursing school.  There are three primary education grants available under this program.  The Preparatory Scholarship pays for the courses necessary to prepare students for a nursing education.  This can include improving basic math and science skills. The Pre-Graduate Scholarship pays for the tuition of a four-year degree program that leads to an advanced education program. The Health Professions Scholarship pays for tuition and living expenses for nursing school.  This opportunity is restricted to graduate students and undergraduate students in their junior or senior years. Award amounts vary.  Applications are due the first quarter of each calendar year.  These are service-obligation grants so students must be willing to work in underserved areas after graduating from college.  For applications and guidelines, contact the Program at 801 Thompson Avenue, TMP-450, Rockville, MD 20852 or by calling (301) 443-6197.

Federal Nursing Research Grants (AHRQ)

Nurses and nursing students may be eligible to apply for various research grants that are offered by the federal government. These grants often require you to follow rigorous research guidelines and have access to high-tech research equipment. You may have to have written permission from your employer to apply for research grants. The following agency offers grants for research activities in healthcare-related fields including nursing.

Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality

Through this agency the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers an excellent resource for post-graduate nursing students as well as nurses who are interested in obtaining grant support for a particular area of study or research. Students can apply to the AHRQ Grants for Health Services Research Dissertation Program for funds to support research projects in collaboration with your educational or nursing institution. Full-time students enrolled in accredited colleges and universities in an eligible health services area of study qualify for this grant. Grant awards are $400,000 for a 9-17 month period. Awards are contingent upon documented approval of your dissertation proposal by your educational review committee by the time grants are awarded. Students interested in learning more about grants available can contact the Agency at 540 Gaither Road, Rockville, MD 20850 or by calling (301) 427-1364.

Federal Nursing Program Grants

The government also offers program grants that nurses may be eligible to receive if they work in an environment in which they oversee a specific healthcare program. Nurses interested in establishing a specific program may also qualify for federal grants for program start-up. The following is an example of a federal program grant opportunity that nurses may be interested in applying to in collaboration with their employer.

Health Resources and Services Administration

Nurses who work in various settings and have direct contact with patients may apply to the Patient Navigator Outreach and Chronic Disease Prevention Demonstration Program. The overarching goal of this program is to fund pilot projects that improve how patients can take advantage of various services offered by their healthcare provider. The intent is to better connect patients with preventative care services and opportunities that are available to them but they may be unaware of or unsure how to access them.  Grant awards are $450,000. Application deadlines vary. As with many federal grant programs, this program is not open to new applications each year so it is important to regularly check for updates on availability. For additional information, nurses can contact the Administration at (301) 443-5688.

Federal Nursing Business Grants

Nurses or nursing students who own their own business may be eligible for business-related grants from the government. Generally, federal grants will only help with the research and development components of a business idea, not actual business startup. The following is an example of a business grant that nurses and nursing students may be eligible for if they meet all stated requirements.

Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)

These grants are available from every department and agency within the federal government. And each department is responsible for administering its own SBIR programs. This includes when they publish Notices of Funding Availability (NOFAs) or Request for Proposals (RFPs). Several departments allow SBIR grant requests to be submitted at any time. SBIR grants are available in two phases.  Phase I is a short-term grant project that focuses on concept development and research design. Most awards for Phase I are about $150,000 for between 6-12 months.  Phase II is the implementation phase which can last for 2 years. Depending upon the awarding agency, these grants range from $750,000 to $1,000,000.

Nursing students and nurses are eligible for this grant as long as they have a legally formed business which can be a one-person sole proprietorship.  Various agencies within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services administer individual SBIR programs. The National Institutes of Health’s SBIR Program may be of particular interest to nurses and nursing students because all of its national institutes and centers participate in the program so there are many opportunities for grant funding.  To learn more about this federal opportunity, contact the NIH SBIR Program Office at (301) 435-2688.

Federal grants can be used by nursing students to pay for their education or cover costs associated with nursing-related projects. Grants awarded by the government can provide significant financial assistance to qualified students and nurses.

FAFSA for Nursing School

Why FAFSA is Important
FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.  Many nursing students overlook the importance of this application in their pursuit of financial assistance for nursing school.  The application is no longer used for federal scholarship and grant programs alone. In fact, it has become the standard by which many funding sources determine financial need. For this reason, nursing students should complete the form regardless of income level each year they are enrolled in school. This goes for undergraduate and graduate nursing students.

The U.S. Department of Education administers this application process and is responsible for updating forms, criteria, and calculation formulas each year.  Typically new application forms are available to students by January annually. Changes to the form are posted to the Department’s website.

Completing the Form

Students must accurately complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to be considered for financial aid. Incomplete application can delay awards.  Students can fill the form out online or print a blank copy to be mailed in after completion. If you are already enrolled in a nursing program, check with your school to see if they have a preference on how you submit the application.

This is a fairly involved process so set aside time and be as thorough as possible. If you are a dependent, you will need financial information from your parents including bank statements and tax statements.  Independent students are not required to include information other than their own.  The form includes sections on education background and financial records.  Be sure to submit the completed form by the federal deadline.  Other organizations, including your school, may have separate submission requirements but it is only official if you meet the deadlines set by the Department of Education.

Student Aid Report

This report is what you receive after submitting your application.  The report details your Expected Family Contribution (EFC) which is used by schools and other funders to determine the amount of financial aid you are eligible to receive. The lower the EFC, the more financial aid you can get in the form of scholarships, grants, and loans.

Federal Programs

Your Student Aid Report will be used to determine if you are eligible to receive grants and scholarships from the government including the Nursing Scholarship Program which is a major funder of nursing financial aid.  This program has a service component that requires students to work for a healthcare employer in a location that is critically short of qualified nursing staff. Aid from the program can be used to pay for tuition costs, books, fees, and living expenses (in the form of a stipend).  Preference is given to nursing students enrolled on a full-time basis at an accredited nursing school and who have an EFC at or near $0.

State Programs

States consider the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or the Student Aid Report when selecting recipients for nursing scholarships and grants. While there are some merit scholarships available through state governments, the majority are awarded based on financial need.  This makes the Student Aid Report all the more important.  Missing the federal deadline for submitting your application can jeopardize your receipt of state financial assistance.

Educational Institutions

Most nursing schools, particularly those that receive federal dollars, require students complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to be considered for scholarships based on financial need.  Some require it regardless.  They use information from your application to create your aid package which may include scholarships, grants, and loans.  Following is an example of a nursing school that requires students to complete this document.

Delta State University (Mississippi)

Nursing students enrolled in the Robert E. Smith’s School of Nursing may be eligible for federal financial assistance and scholarships.  To be considered students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.  The resulting financial profile is used by the University to develop a financial aid package for applicants. Students can complete the form online.  For additional information, students can contact the Office of Financial Assistance at (662) 846-4670.

Employers

Employers that provide scholarships may require applicants to include a copy of their Free Application for Federal Student Aid as part of their application package. This is less common than with other organizations such as foundations.  However, students should be prepared to submit the form if the employer is a hospital that is affiliated with a nursing school.

Foundations

More and more foundations are requiring scholarship applicants submit a copy of their Free Application for Federal Student Aid or their Student Aid Report with their foundation applications to be considered for assistance.  By using federally established guidelines for financial need, foundations are able to keep their scholarship processes unbiased and fair.  Merit scholarships and grants usually do not require documentation of financial status.  Following is an example of a foundation that requires this form as part of its scholarship application process.

Stokes Scholarship Trust

The Trust awards scholarships to nursing students who live in Langdon, New Hampshire.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, personal essay, and documented financial need.  Applicants are required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to be considered. Interviews are required for all students.  Award amounts vary and are provided in two installments.  Applications are typically due to the Trust by the end June annually.  For applications and guidelines, students can contact the Trust, c/o Bank of America, N.A., P.O. Box 1802, Providence, RI 02901.

Your FAFSA is a critical tool in your overall financial aid plan. It is important you know what kind of picture the application paints concerning your financial situation. This will help determine the types of scholarships, grants, and loans you seek for your nursing education.

Bad Credit Student Loans

How to Find Bad Credit Student Loans
It is not uncommon for nursing students with poor credit histories to seek bad credit student loans. Traditional loan opportunities may be beyond the reach of these students.  Loans that are approved for individuals with bad credit will likely have higher interest rates. Fortunately, there are resources available that help nursing students get the education they need regardless of their credit history.

So called normal bad credit solutions that are often advertised that help fix bad credit like credit counseling, eliminating or erasing credit records and credit card debt consolidation; may just take too long to be effective for some nursing school applicants. Following are examples of different types of loan programs for students with poor credit.

Federal Loans

Multiple federal loan programs are available for nursing students who have bad credit but need financial assistance to continue their education.  Federal student loan approval is not contingent upon a credit check.  Therefore if you do not have good credit you can still receive these loans.  In fact, the less disposable money you have, the greater your chances of obtaining federal student loans.  The primary federal student loan program is the Stafford student loan.

Stafford Subsidized Student Loan

Nursing students who receive this loan are obligated to begin paying back within six months of graduating from college. This should give nursing school graduates sufficient time to obtain a job.  Even if you receive a temporary deferment, you will still have to pay back the loan.  Bankruptcy does not eliminate your loan responsibility because student loans subsidized by the Federal government are not covered by bankruptcy laws. The terms of the loan include repayment within ten years. Fortunately, you can take up to twenty years to pay back your Stafford subsidized student loan if you can prove financial hardship.  And interest is not accruing on your loan until you graduate from college and your repayment plan kicks in.  To apply for this loan, you will need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and submit it to your nursing school for consideration.

Stafford Unsubsidized Student Loan

This loan is similar to the subsidized version in most respects including repayment terms.  However, this loan begins to accrue interest on the day you receive the loan.  This means that you will end up paying more, especially the longer you are in school, than if you had a subsidized loan.  If you wait until the last minute to apply for financial aid, you risk receiving an unsubsidized loan since there are limits to the amount of money available for Federal student loans.  You apply for this loan in the same way you apply for the subsidized loan.

Educational Institute Student Loans

In addition to the loans already described, the college you attend may offer additional loans to students who have limited financial opportunities to attend school.  The interest on loans for students with bad credit may be higher.  There may be stricter payback requirements as well.  To learn about student loan opportunities, contact your school’s financial aid office.

Employer-Sponsored Student Loans

Local healthcare or other employers who offer student loans to employees and area residents may allow individuals with poor credit to apply for loans.  You can learn more by contacting the human resources department of major employers in your community who administer educational scholarship and loan programs. Following is an example of an employer that offers educational loans to students with bad credit.

Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital Foundation

The Foundation offers loans to nursing students enrolled in a two-year or four-year nursing program. Students can also be pursuing a career as a licensed vocational nurse.  Loans are available to Hospital employees as well as students who graduated from high schools in Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo or Ventura counties in California.  Loans are made based on academic potential, future goals, financial need, and letters of recommendation.  Loans are not credit-based so students with poor credit can apply to the Foundation for financial assistance.  Loan amounts vary.  Applications are due to the Foundation by July and December annually.  For loan applications, students can contact the Foundation at P.O. Box 689, Santa Barbara, CA 93102.

Community-Based Student Loans

Community resources are available to help students with bad credit get student loans.  Healthcare nonprofit organizations may offer loans to community residents and employees.  But it is foundations that offer the best loan opportunities for students with bad credit.  If you need this type of loan, consider contacting a local foundation that provides loans to area residents.  The following are two examples of funders and bad credit student loan lenders that allow students who have bad credit to apply for education loans.

C. L. Kelly Charitable Trust

The Trust awards education loans to nursing students who live in Halifax County, North Carolina.  Students with bad credit can apply for loans from the Trust.  Loan amounts vary and there is no deadline for applications. For loan applications, contact the Trust, c/o Comerica Bank, P.O. Box 75000, MC 3302, Detroit, MI 48275.  Completed applications are to be submitted to the Trust at 130 South Franklin, Rocky Mount, NC 27802.  Nursing students who have questions can call (252) 467-4743.

The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis

Nursing students who live in the St. Louis metropolitan area can apply to the Foundation for interest-free loans for nursing school.  These loans are for students who do not have sufficient financial means to go to continue their education.  Students with bad credit are eligible to apply.  Loans are made based on academic scores, the Student Aid Report, personal essay, and letters of recommendation.  The Foundation has two deadlines: mid-April and mid-November annually.  Students can obtain applications from the Foundation at 8215 Clayton Road, St. Louis, MO 63117 or by calling (314) 725-7990.

Very bad credit or just poor credit should not stop you from pursuing a nursing degree when you can get bad credit student loans to pay for your education.  These nursing loans are available from multiple sources and are help students make a fresh start even if they have a bad credit history.

Undergraduate Nursing Scholarships

Undergraduate Nursing Scholarships for College Expenses
Students can get undergraduate nursing scholarships from a variety of sources. Each scholarship opportunity details the eligibility and submission requirements including deadlines. Scholarship awards are usually for tuition but some also pay for books and fees.  Undergraduate nursing students often need financial assistance to continue their education.

Following below are examples of scholarship programs for undergraduate students enrolled in nursing schools.

American Association for Health Education

Undergraduate nursing students attending accredited four-year nursing programs throughout the country may be eligible for the Bill Kan Undergraduate Scholarship.  Students must be enrolled on a full-time and have at least a 3.25 GPA to apply.  Freshmen are not eligible for this scholarship.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, leadership potential, work and volunteer record, and a personal essay.  Awards are $1,000 and are not renewable.  Scholarship recipients receive a complimentary Association membership for one year. Applications are due to the Association by November annually. For applications, contact the Association at 1900 Association Drive, Reston, VA 20191 or by calling (703) 476-3437.

State Programs for Undergraduate Nursing Students

There are multiple programs available at the state-level that offer nursing scholarships to undergraduate students.  Programs include financial assistance from state governments, state-wide associations, and other organizations that serve an entire state.  Following is an example of a state program that offers scholarships to students pursuing an undergraduate nursing degree.

Alice M. Yarnold and Samuel Yarnold Scholarship Trust

New Hampshire students enrolled in an undergraduate nursing program at an accredited school may be eligible for financial assistance.  The Trust awards scholarships based on academic scores, documented financial need, letters of recommendation, and a personal essay.  Applicants are required to complete and submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered.  Award amounts vary and are renewable.  Applications are generally due to the Trust by mid-April annually.  For applications and guidelines, contact the Trust at 180 Locust Street, Dover, NH 03820.

Specialty Scholarships for Undergraduate Nursing Students

Undergraduate nursing students may be eligible for scholarships in their area of specialized study.  For example, undergraduate pediatric nursing students can apply for general as well as pediatric nursing scholarships.  The following is an example of a scholarship program for undergraduate nursing students specializing in a particular area of study.

Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates, Inc.

Registered nurses currently working in gastroenterology and interested in obtaining their Bachelor of Science degree in nursing may be eligible for the RN Advancing Education Scholarship. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores and a personal essay.  This is a merit scholarship so documented financial need is not required. Applicants must be members of the Society to be considered. Awards are $2,500 for full-time students and $1,000 for part-time students.  Applications are due to the Society by July annually.  For applications and guidelines, contact the Society, Attn: Awards Committee, 401 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611 or by calling (312) 321-5156.

Educational Institute Scholarships for Undergraduate Nursing Students

Undergraduate students who have been accepted to or are currently enrolled in a nursing program can contact their school’s financial aid office or nursing department to learn about available scholarships. Each scholarship opportunity will have separate eligibility and submission guidelines.  The guidelines will specify award amounts and deadlines for applications.  Following is an example of school that offers scholarships to undergraduate nursing students.

McNeese University (Louisiana)

Undergraduate students enrolled in the College of Nursing are eligible for a variety of scholarships available through the University. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, leadership, financial need, and department recommendation. Awards range from $100 to $3,000 and are generally not renewable. For additional information, students should contact the Scholarships and Testing Office at (337) 475-5140.

Employer-Sponsored Scholarships for Undergraduate Nursing Students

Employers throughout the country, particularly those in the healthcare industry, offer scholarships to undergraduate nursing students.  Many will require scholarship recipients to complete a term of service upon graduation.  This means the student is expected to work for the employer for a predetermined period of time in exchange for the scholarship.  Following is an example of an employer that offers nursing scholarships to undergraduate students.

CGH Health Foundation

The Foundation awards scholarships to nurses and nursing students who live in a five-county area in Illinois. These counties include Carroll, Lee, Bureau, Whiteside, and Ogle.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, documented financial need, and letters of recommendation.  Award amounts vary as do deadlines for submission.  Applications and guidelines are available by contacting the Foundation at 100 East Lefevre Road, Sterling, IL 61081 or by calling (815) 625-0400.

Community-Based Scholarships for Undergraduate Nursing Students

Undergraduate nursing students are eligible for a variety of scholarships sponsored or administered by community groups.  These groups include healthcare nonprofits, chambers of commerce, and foundations that serve specific geographic communities. The following are examples of foundations that provide community-based nursing scholarships for undergraduate students.

Fairfield County Community Foundation, Inc.

Undergraduate nursing students who are just beginning their education following high school graduation from within Fairfield County may be eligible for the Oristano Foundation Scholarship.  Students accepted to 2-year or 4-year programs can apply.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, documented financial need, work and volunteer record, and letters of recommendation.  Award amounts vary.  Applications are due to the Foundation by the end of March annually. For applications and guidelines, students can contact the Foundation at 383 Main Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06851 or by calling (203) 750-3200.

Lincoln Community Foundation

The Foundation offers the Norman and Ruth Good Educational Endowment Award for junior and senior undergraduate students with high academic achievement. Students enrolled in a nursing program at a private college in Nebraska and meet all eligibility criteria can apply for this merit-based opportunity. Award amounts vary.  Applications are due to the Foundation by April annually.  For applications, contact the Foundation at 215 Centennial Mall South, Suite 100, Lincoln, NE 68508.  For general questions call (402) 474-2345.

Students who receive undergraduate nursing scholarships benefit by owing less on tuition and other costs associated with their education.  Students can apply for numerous scholarships and receive multiple awards. The more scholarships received, the less out-of-pocket expenses for students.

Scholarships for Single Mothers

How to Find Scholarships for Single Mothers
If you are looking for single mother scholarships or grants to help pay for nursing school, you may find it a challenging undertaking.  These scholarships and grants can be difficult to find.  Single moms often seek education opportunities to improve their lives.  They know the importance of being a good provider and role model for their children.  Nursing school is a great option considering the job growth that will continue over the next several years.  Nursing shortages mean opportunities for new students.

The following below are ways single moms can find both general and nursing scholarships they can use to pay for nursing school.

State Programs for Single Mothers

There may be a state agency or an agency that serves an entire state that has a focus of helping singles mothers pursue opportunities in education.  Agencies may be funded through state or federal dollars or may be funded privately. The majority allow scholarships to be applied to any discipline at accredited colleges and universities, typically within the same state.  These are excellent opportunities for single mothers to obtain scholarships for nursing school.  Following is an excellent of a state scholarship program for single mothers and fathers.

Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund

In response to a high rate of single parenthood, the state offers financial assistance to single mothers who are state residents and enrolled in college.  Nursing students who meet these eligibility requirements may be able to apply for a Single Parent Scholarship.  This scholarship is particularly helpful because in addition to tuition and books, recipients may use scholarship funds at their discretion on activities that support their educational goals such as childcare and car repairs.  Scholarships are administered through 70 county-level affiliates who can establish their own eligibility criteria. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, income level, and documented financial need.  While some affiliates restrict fields of study, the majority do not.  Nursing students should contact their local Single Parent Scholarship Fund for additional information.

Special Opportunities for Single Mothers

There are multiple resources available to single mothers seeking financial assistance to further their education.  Some will be specific to nursing while others are open to all fields of study, including healthcare.  The following is an example of this type of financial assistance.

Emerge Scholarships, Inc.

This scholarship program is specifically for nontraditional students, including single parents, who wish to pursue a college education.  Only applicants who are at least 25 years old are eligible for this scholarship.  Nursing students who meet eligibility requirements can apply. There is a preference, but not requirement, that students attend colleges in Georgia.  Awards range from $2,000 to $5,000.  Multiple awards are made annually.  Applications are available in the fall of each year.  For applications, contact Emerge at 1054 Redwood Drive, Norcross, GA 30093 or by calling them at (770) 905-5175.

Scholarship Contests for Single Mothers

Single mothers can receive scholarships by entering a variety of contests and competitions.  Contests typically require the creation and submission of essays or videos in response to a particular set of criteria or prompt question.  Following is an example of a scholarship contest for single parents interested in pursuing a nursing career.

The Mary Blake Single Parent Nursing Scholarship

This scholarship opportunity is designed to acknowledge students who effectively balance nursing education and single parenthood.  Applicants are required to write an essay and complete an application to be considered for a $500 scholarship.  The essay is not to exceed 500 words and should describe their ability to simultaneously manage the demands of being a single parent and a nursing student.  Submissions are due by mid-June annually.  This contest is open to all eligible applicants.  For additional information, nursing students should submit a letter to Contest Inquiry, ATTN: Single Parent Scholarship, 384 Mosby Drive, Acworth, Georgia 30102.

University & College Scholarships for Single Mothers

Many educational institutions like colleges and universities offer grants and scholarships for single mothers as an incentive to further their education.  Some single mothers scholarships can be used to cover childcare expenses in addition to the traditional tuition and books typically paid for by scholarships.  Single mothers pursuing nursing degrees should contact their school’s office of financial aid to inquiry about these scholarships.  The school’s nursing department is unlikely to have information on this type of scholarship unless there is one specifically for nursing students.  Following is an example of a college that offers scholarships to single mothers.

Kirkwood Community College Scholarships for Single Mothers

Students enrolled in the nursing program at the College and are single mothers may be eligible for scholarships for single mothers offered by the college in addition to nursing scholarships.  The College offers six scholarship programs specifically for single mothers including the Michele Boyer Scholarship, the Waypoint Tribute to Women Scholarship, and the U.S. Bank Scholarship.  Most scholarships require documentation of financial need. Awards typically range between $500 and $1,000.  Interested students should contact the Scholarship Office at (319) 398-7186 for further information on these financial assistance programs.

Employer-Sponsored Scholarships for Single Mothers

Employers are a major source of educational scholarships.  They typically offer scholarships through corporate foundations or corporate giving programs.  While many restrict scholarships to employees and their children, others open eligibility to include local residents.  Single mothers interested in pursuing nursing careers should contact local employers, especially those in the healthcare industry such as hospitals, to determine if they offer scholarships to nursing students.

Community-Based Scholarships for Single Mothers

There are numerous opportunities at the community level for single mothers to receive scholarships they can use to pursue a nursing degree.  As a reminder, most scholarships can be used for any degree and may not focus on nursing education.  The following is an example of a community-based scholarship program for single mothers.

Cacique Foundation

The Foundation awards scholarships to single mothers enrolled in the nursing program at Mount San Antonio College in California. Scholarships are awarded based on academic potential, documented financial need, and letters of recommendation.  Award amounts vary. For applications and guidelines, contact the Foundation at 14949 Proctor Avenue, City of Industry, CA 91746 or by calling (626) 961-3399.

It is clear that single mothers scholarships can be obtained through multiple sources.  Many do not require a particular field of study.  Rather, they allow recipients to develop their own education plan, making them excellent financial assistance for single mothers interested in a nursing degree.

Scholarships for Disadvantaged Students

Finding Scholarships for Disadvantaged Students
Multiple types of scholarships for disadvantaged students are available that can be used for nursing school.  These scholarships are intended to help underrepresented individuals receive a college education.  Many are open to all college majors, making them ideal sources of funding for students pursuing a nursing degree.

Following below are examples of scholarship programs that disadvantaged students can apply to for financial assistance.

Federal Programs for Disadvantaged Students

The federal government funds scholarship programs designed for disadvantaged students. Each program will have individual guidelines including eligibility and application requirements.  Most funds are administered through states to participating nursing schools. The following is an example of a scholarship program for disadvantaged students.

Scholarships for Disadvantaged Students

This program is for economically disadvantaged students with demonstrated financial need.  Only full-time students enrolled in nursing or other healthcare professions can apply for financial assistance.  Funds are distributed through participating nursing schools. Scholarships are awarded by nursing schools.  Award amounts vary depending upon individual school guidelines. The scholarship can be used to pay for tuition, books, fees, and living expenses. Students interested in this opportunity can contact their nursing school’s financial aid office to learn if the school receives program funds.

Educational Institute Scholarships for Disadvantages Students

It is not uncommon for colleges and universities to offer scholarships specifically for disadvantaged students.  Eligibility requirements for these scholarships will vary depending upon the program.  Interested students should contact their school’s financial aid office for information about these types of scholarships. Unless a scholarship is designated for nursing students, the nursing department may not know about additional scholarship opportunities.

Daytona Beach Community College (Florida)

Students enrolled in the College’s nursing program who are economically disadvantaged may be eligible for the William H. Murray Memorial Scholarship. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores and financial need.  Nursing faculty members at the College are responsible for selecting scholarship recipient.  Award amounts vary.  Interested students can obtain applications and guidelines from the school’s financial aid office.

Corporate Scholarship Programs for Disadvantaged Students

Many corporate scholarship programs require applicants to be disadvantaged at the time of application.  The purpose of these programs is often to encourage disadvantaged individuals to enter college and become a skilled member of the workforce.  Following is an example of a scholarship offered by a corporation.

Fairmount Tire Charitable Foundation, Inc.

Undergraduate nursing students who live or attend nursing schools in the Greater Los Angeles area may be eligible for a scholarship from the Foundation.  Students must be economically disadvantaged to be considered. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores and documented financial need.  Award amounts vary. For applications, contact your nursing school’s office of financial aid.  Applications must be submitted by your school to the Foundation at 56816 Aspen Drive, Springville, CA 93265.

Community-Based Scholarships for Disadvantaged Students

Community organizations are known to offer scholarships to individuals with disadvantaged backgrounds.  The most common are scholarships administered by family and community foundations.  Foundations typically offer more than one scholarship opportunity for disadvantaged students.  Following are examples of community-based scholarships for students determined to be disadvantaged.

Atchison Community Educational Foundation

This Foundation offers scholarships to at-risk high school students to attend college.  Students who plan to pursue a nursing degree at an accredited college are eligible to apply.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, documented financial need, and personal essay. Completed applications must include at least four letters of reference.  Only students who have already been accepted into a nursing program will be considered.  Award amounts vary.  There is no deadline for submission.  Applicants should be prepared to be interviewed during the selection process.  For applications and guidelines, contact the Foundation at 626 Commercial Street, Atchison, KS 66002.

Sailfish Point Foundation, Inc.

Economically disadvantaged nursing students who live in Martin County in Florida are eligible to apply for financial assistance.  Employees of Martin Memorial Medical Center who are disadvantaged are also eligible to apply. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, documented financial need, letters of recommendation, and personal essay.  Award amounts range from $750 to $10,000.  There is no specific deadline for submissions.  Interested students can request an application by contacting the Foundation at P.O. Box 1107, Stuart, FL 34996.  Completed applications are to be submitted to the Foundation, c/o Martin Memorial Medical Center, 300 S.E. Hospital Avenue, Stuart, FL 34994.

Scholarships for disadvantaged students are available from myriad sources.  Students can take advantage of all opportunities to help get their nursing education expenses paid for.  The more scholarships received, the fewer out-of-pocket expenses they will be responsible for in the long run.

Nursing Scholarship Search Engines

Nursing students have access to a variety of scholarship search engines they can use to locate multiple scholarship and grant opportunities to help pay for their college education.  These search tools may be specific to nursing or other eligibility characteristics such as ethnicity or residency.  You can visit each search engine by typing its name in your web browser.

Nursing Search Engines

These search engines are specific to the nursing industry and are often searchable by degree or area of expertise such as pediatric nursing.  These are always the best place to begin your web search for nursing scholarships and grants.  Many search engines allow users to search using criteria that includes state and whether you are seeking financial aid for undergraduate or graduate study.  Following are examples of leading search engines that students can use to find financial assistance exclusively for nursing students.

CampusRN

Visitors to this site can learn about scholarships that are available to undergraduate and graduate nursing students.  There is no traditional search tool but they provide a comprehensive listing of scholarships.  Scholarships are listed in alphabetical order so students will need to review the entire listing to find opportunities that match their particular situation.  Each scholarship profile includes details on eligibility, award amounts, deadlines for submission, and contact information.

DiscoverNursing

This site is sponsored by Johnson & Johnson and allows for detailed searches of nursing scholarship opportunities based primarily upon scholarship eligibility requirements.  Students can conduct state searches to learn about financial assistance for residents and students attending nursing programs in a particular state.  If students are concerned about their academic scores, this site permits searches based on minimum GPA requirements.  Searches can be conducted using the student’s ethnicity or student status including high school student, undergraduate, graduate, post-graduate, and research.  Students can also enter a search term, perhaps for a specialty area of study such as pediatrics.

MinorityNurse

Minority nursing students seeking financial assistance for nursing school can use the search tool available on this site to locate scholarships.  Students must create an account to use the search engine.  Search results are intended to be “best fit” matches to student backgrounds.  If you do not want to register to use the search tool, you can review a short listing of minority nursing scholarships that is on the same page.  The list is a sample for opportunities from their database.

General Search Engines

The other option nursing students have when seeking scholarships is general search engines that contain databases for all majors, including nursing.  In addition to nursing scholarships, these sites may be used to locate scholarships for a particular college or other eligibility criteria.  These scholarships can supplement your nursing scholarships.  Following are examples of the top general search engines that nursing students can use to locate additional financial assistance.

CareerOneStop

This is a government-sponsored site that contains a database of more than 5,000 financial assistance opportunities.  Administered by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration, it has current information on scholarships, grants, and loans that nursing students can apply for to help cover their nursing school expenses.  Searches can be conducted based on type of assistance, student’s state of residency, level of study, and affiliations. Unfortunately, this site does not allow for field of study searches so students will need to review matches to determine applicability.  Search results provide summary information including the application process, number of awards, award amounts, and eligibility requirements.

FastWeb

FastWeb is one of the best known online scholarship search engines.  Students do have to register to use this site but it is free. The site uses information you provide during the registration process to find scholarship matches for you.  Information you are required to provide includes your current GPA, the college you are interested in or currently attending, and whether you are an undergraduate or graduate level student.  Students can select multiple areas of study within nursing.  Matches include scholarships, contests, and other ways students can receive money for their education.  Award amounts vary depending upon the scholarship opportunity or contest. FastWeb tracks deadlines so you know when to submit applications.

Sallie Mae

This long-standing scholarship site offers free searches for financial assistance after registration.  Nursing students can locate financial assistance programs that help pay for nursing school by completing a brief profile. Students will receive a list of matches that include scholarships, loans, and contests.  Searches can be conducted using different criteria and search terms, allowing students to locate multiple opportunities.

College Board

Nursing students can use College Board’s search tool to locate scholarships.  Students can search by various key terms including nursing, state of school or residency, or educational level of study among others.  By registering for an account, students can receive detailed search matches based on their profile.  Their database is updated annually.

FindTuition

Students are required to register to use this scholarship search engine.  By completing a detailed personal and professional profile, nursing students can learn about various scholarships and contests that best match their particular backgrounds.  Unlike some of the other search engines, summaries of the scholarship opportunities are not provided so students will need to review each match individually.

The Foundation Center

To learn about local and national foundations as well as corporations that offer nursing scholarship, students can use resources from the Foundation Center.  The Center publishes annual directories on corporate giving and foundation giving to individuals.  This information is available through their online database.  Students will need to purchase a subscription to the database for individuals but should only need a one-month subscription which is typically $20.  As an alternative, students can visit their local libraries to review the directories.  Some libraries subscribe to the online directories for patron use.

Scholarship sites may require a small registration fee from students to access their database. When researching nursing scholarships online, you should be cautious about possible scams.  If sites require registration fees to be used, verify the legitimacy of the site before giving them your credit card information.  It is equally important that the information you get is current and accurate if you are paying for it.

Scholarship search engines are incredibly useful in helping nursing students locate financial aid opportunities.  Resources typically include scholarships, grants, and federal programs.  Students are not limited on the number of scholarships and grants they can apply for to help pay for college.

Scholarships for Pediatric Nursing Students

How to Get Scholarships for Pediatric Nursing Students
The costs of nursing school can be significantly reduced with scholarships for pediatric nursing students.  Scholarships can be used to pay for tuition, books, and fees associated with nursing school.  Pediatric nurses are in high demand. Getting financial assistance to help pay for your nursing education is the first step to a rewarding career in nursing.

Following below are examples of scholarship programs for nursing students specializing in pediatrics.

National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners Foundation

Students enrolled in a pediatric nurse practioners program may be eligible for financial assistance from the Foundation.  Multiple scholarship programs are administered including the Reckitt Benckiser PNP Scholarship, the Elaine Gelman Scholarship, and the McNeil Rural & Underserved Scholarship.  Each scholarship has individual eligibility and submission requirements.  Award amounts range from $2,000 to $20,000 depending upon the scholarship program. Applicants must be members of the Association to be considered.  For applications and additional information, contact the Association at 20 Brace Road, Suite 200, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034 or by calling (856) 857-9700.

Society of Pediatric Nurses

The Society sponsors several awards as well as the annual Academic Education Scholarship. This scholarship program is intended to support nursing students pursuing a four-year nursing degree in pediatric healthcare. Only members of the Society will be considered.  Awards are usually around $500. Applications are typically due at the beginning of each year. For applications and additional information, contact the Society at 7044 South 13^th Street, Oak Creek, WI 53154 or by calling them at (414) 908-4850.

Academy of Neonatal Nursing

Undergraduate and graduate nursing students who are enrolled in a nursing program that focuses on neonatal or related specialty may be eligible for a scholarship from the Academy.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, current employment, and a personal essay.  Financial need is not a requirement. Only students with at least two years of experience in neonatal healthcare can apply. Applicants must be members of the Academy to be considered. Awards are $1,000.  The Academy must receive completed applications by April annually.  For applications and guidelines, contact the Academy at 2270 Northpoint Parkway, Santa Rosa, CA 95407-7398. You can call (707) 569-0786 if you have general questions.

Educational Institute Nursing Scholarships

Pediatric nursing students may be eligible for scholarships through their nursing school.  If you are a nursing student specializing in pediatrics, you can contact your school’s office of financial aid to learn about scholarship opportunities.  The nursing department will also have information on these scholarships including eligibility and submission requirements.  Following is an example of a nursing school that offers scholarships for nursing students planning to become pediatric nurses.

Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis

Pediatric nurse practitioner students enrolled in the University’s School of Nursing may be eligible for financial assistance from the School which administers in excess of $700,000 in scholarships each year. There are scholarships for undergraduate and graduate nursing students pursuing this discipline.  Undergraduate pediatric nursing students are eligible for the Riley Children’s Foundation Renee Thompson Scholarship. The Tyler Luke Mayse Scholarship is for graduate students focusing on pediatric nursing. Each scholarship opportunity has individual eligibility and submission requirements.  Award amounts vary, ranging from $1,000 to $25,000. For applications and guidelines, students should contact the School of Nursing at (317) 274-8040.

Employer-Sponsored Nursing Scholarships

Employers who hire pediatric nurses may offer scholarships to nursing students specializing in pediatrics.  Acceptance of these scholarships may require students to work for the employer upon graduation.  Other employer scholarships may be restricted to employees. An example of an employer-sponsored scholarship program for pediatric nursing students follows.

Children’s Health Care of Atlanta

Children’s is the largest healthcare provider in Georgia. As such they are interested in financially supporting aspiring nurses.  They offer multiple scholarship opportunities throughout the year.  High school seniors interested in pursuing a pediatric nursing career can apply for an Occupations Scholarship. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, work or volunteer experience, letters of recommendation, and a personal essay in response to a prompt. Applicants must be a member of Georgia HOSA (a student organization comprised of future healthcare professionals) to be considered.

Children’s CHANCES Scholarship is specifically for students interested in pediatric nursing.  Nursing students enrolled in a Bachelor of Science in nursing program are eligible to apply for this scholarship. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, work or volunteer experience, letters of recommendation, and a personal essay that addresses specific questions listed on the application form.  Awards are $10,000 per year for two years.  Applications must be submitted electronically by April annually.  For further information, students can contact Children’s at (404) 785-7211.

Community-Based Nursing Scholarships

Pediatric nursing students may be eligible for scholarships offered by community organizations.  These can be foundations or healthcare nonprofits. Family and community foundations are great resources for nursing scholarships, including those for pediatric nursing students. The following is an example of a community scholarship program for students enrolled in pediatric nursing studies.

Middlesex County Medical Society Foundation, Inc.

The Foundation awards nursing scholarships to graduate students who have lived in Middlesex County, New Jersey for at least five years prior to application.  A nursing student enrolled in a pediatric nurse practitioner program and meet this criterion is eligible to apply for financial assistance from the Foundation. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, documented financial need, work or volunteer activity, and letters of recommendation. Award amounts vary.  Completed applications are due to the Foundation by February annually.  For applications and guidelines, students can contact the Foundation at 575 Cranbury Road, Suite B-7, East Brunswick, NJ 08816 or by calling them at (732) 257-6800.

Multiple sources of scholarships for pediatric nursing students exist.  Students can apply to these programs for financial assistance for nursing school.  The more scholarships you receive, the less you will owe toward your education costs.

Nursing Scholarships for African Americans

Top Nursing Scholarships for African Americans
Eligible students should consider nursing scholarships for African Americans to help pay for their nursing education.  Scholarships are available for both undergraduate and graduate nursing students.  You can find scholarships from a variety of sources.

Following below are examples of scholarships that African-American nursing students may be eligible to apply for to pay for school.

National Black Nurses Association

African American nurses and nursing students have access to multiple scholarship opportunities through the Association. Their more than 10 scholarship programs include the Martha R. Dudley Scholarship and the United Health Foundation Scholarship. Scholarships are intended to be used for undergraduate studies.  Awards are made based on academic scores, letters of recommendation, community service record, Association activities, and a personal essay.  Typical award amounts are between $500 and $2,000. Applicants must be Association members and have at least one year of study remaining to be considered. Nursing students interested in this opportunity can contact the Association at 8630 Fenton Street, Suite 330, Silver Spring, MD 20910 or by calling them at (301) 589-3200.

Ron Brown Scholar Fund

The Fund provides scholarships to African American students who demonstrate exceptional academic ability and are highly motivated to obtain an undergraduate education. Applicants must be graduating high school seniors. Nursing students who meet these criteria are eligible to apply for scholarships from the Fund. Scholarships are awarded based on academic ability, leadership potential, community service record, documented financial need, and letters of recommendation.  Award amounts are $10,000 each year for four years and can be used to pay for tuition, books, fees, health insurance, and living expenses. Applications are typically due to the Fund by November annually.  Enrollment in any four-year accredited nursing program is acceptable. Interested students can request an application by contacting the Fund at 1160 Pepsi Place, Suite 206, Charlottesville, VA 22901 or by calling them at (434) 964-1588.

UNCF (formerly the United Negro College Fund)

African American students enrolled in accredited undergraduate and graduate nursing programs are eligible to apply for scholarships through UNCF including the Dignity Health Corporate Scholarship and the UNCF General Scholarship among others. Application requirements vary depending upon the scholarship program. Students may have to be enrolled at specific colleges to be eligible for financial assistance.  Award amounts vary.  For the two scholarships mentioned above, awards range from $5,000 to $10,000.

Gates Millennium Scholars Program

This UNCF scholarship is a joint program with the Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund, the American Indian Graduate Center Scholars, and the Hispanic Scholarship Fund. The Program is funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. It is open to economically disadvantaged graduating high school seniors.  Nursing students who meet eligibility criterion can apply. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, leadership potential, and community service record. Award amounts vary.  For information on any UNCF scholarship opportunity, students can contact the Fund by calling (800) 331-2244.

Thurgood Marshall College Fund

The Fund provides scholarships to African American students attending one of many participating schools including public Historically Black Colleges and Universities.  Scholarships are awarded based on merit. Applications must include academic scores, leadership and community service record, letters of recommendation, and a completed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Nursing students who meet eligibility and submission requirements can receive scholarships that average $2,200 per semester and are renewable.  Awards can be used to pay for tuition, books, fees, and living expenses. Scholarships are made available throughout the year with each having individual eligibility and submission requirements including specific deadlines. For applications and guidelines, students can contact the Fund at 901 F Street NW, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20004 or by calling (202) 507-4851.

The Jackie Robinson Foundation

The Foundation awards scholarships to African American high school seniors who have been accepted into a four-year education program at an accredited college or university.  Nursing students who meet these criteria are eligible to apply.  Scholarships are based on academic scores, community service record, leadership ability, letter of recommendation, and documented financial aid. Award amounts are $7,500.  Applications are typically due to the Foundation by the end of March annually. Students can obtain applications and guidelines from the Foundation at One Hudson Square, 75 Varick Street, 2^nd Floor, New York, NY 10013 or by calling the Foundation at (212) 290-8600.

Educational Institute Scholarships for African American Nursing Students

African American nursing students may be eligible for scholarships through their school.  Scholarships may be designated for nursing students or open to all majors.  To learn about scholarship opportunities at your school, visit the financial aid office.  The nursing department will have information about nursing scholarships only.  Following is an example of a school that administers scholarship programs for African American students.

South Georgia College

Students enrolled in the College’s nursing program are eligible for nursing scholarships as well as minority scholarships including the Arthur Farrar Minority Scholarship and the Thomas H. Sr. & Ruth Frier Nursing Scholarship.  Students must be residents of Coffee County in Georgia.  African American nursing students who meet all eligibility criteria can apply.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores and financial need.  Award amounts vary depending upon the scholarship opportunity.  Students can learn more about all scholarship programs available by contacting the Office of Advancement at (912) 260-4269.

Employer-Sponsored Scholarships for African American Nursing Students

Local employers may offer scholarships that are designated for African American students.  You may not be required to be an employee to be eligible for scholarships.  The best way to learn about these scholarship opportunities is to contact hospitals and other healthcare organizations, including nonprofits, and ask if they offer nursing scholarships.  Those that open scholarship applications to non-employees will likely have a service commitment requirement that mandates scholarship recipients work for them upon graduation.

Community-Based Scholarships for African American Nursing Students

African American nursing students also have opportunities for financial assistance at the community level.  Nonprofit organizations and foundations are excellent resources for locating scholarships that are designated for African American students. The following is an example of a foundation that administers scholarships that are only open to African American applicants.

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation

African American nursing students currently enrolled in an accredited nursing program in the Greater Kansas Area may be eligible for a scholarship from the General Hospital #2 Perpetual Trust Fund.  The Greater Kansas Area included Wyandotte and Johnson counties in Kansas as well as Platte, Jackson, and Clay counties in Missouri.  Nursing students who live in St. Joseph, Missouri are also eligible to apply. Applicants must be pursuing a registered nurse degree on a full-time basis.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal essay.  Award amounts vary and applications are due to the Foundation by the end of March annually.  For applications and guidelines, contact the Foundation at 1055 Broadway, Suite 130, Kansas City, MO 64105 or by calling them at (816) 842-0944.

Nursing scholarships for African Americans can be located from multiple sources.  It takes just a bit of research to locate a variety of opportunities.  Nursing students can use these scholarships to help cover the growing cost of a college education.

Nursing School Scholarships

Ways to Get Nursing School Scholarships
While the demand for nursing continues to increase so does the cost of higher education, escalating the need for nursing school scholarships.  These scholarships often pay for tuition but may also cover books and fees.  There are some that nursing students can get that pay for living expenses but these are rare.

The following below are examples of scholarship programs that help pay for nursing school.

Association of United Nurses

Undergraduate and graduate nursing students attending accredited nursing schools across the country may be eligible for scholarships from the Association. The Scholarship Administrative Services oversees the Association’s scholarship program. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, work and volunteer record including extracurricular activities, and a personal essay.  All scholarships are awarded based on merit.  Award amounts are $5,000 and are renewable for one additional year.  Applications are due by April annually. For applications, contact Scholarship Administrative Services, Attn: AUN Program, 2000 Rock Street, Suite 3, Mountain View, CA 94043.

Educational Institute Nursing Scholarships

Nursing students can learn about scholarships available through their school by contacting the financial aid office or the nursing department. Scholarships are to be used for nursing school expenses. The following are examples of school-based scholarship programs that help students pay for nursing school.

Cabarrus College of Health Sciences (North Carolina)

Students enrolled in the College have access to many scholarship opportunities including the Cabarrus College Student Scholarship, the Caroline Walker Memorial Scholarship, and the Beatrice Waddell Calloway Scholarship.  All scholarships are based on academic scores, extracurricular activities, documented financial need, and recommendations by instructors.  Award amounts vary as do submission deadlines.  Interested students can contact the College at (704) 403-1555 for additional information.

St. Luke’s School of Nursing

Students who have graduated from St. Luke’s School of Nursing in New York are eligible for scholarships to continue their nursing education. Scholarships from the St. Luke’s Nurses’ Benefit Fund are awarded for merit and based on financial need. Award amounts vary.  There are no deadlines for submission.  For additional information, contact the Fund at P.O. Box 250892, Columbia Station, New York, NY 10025.

Lancaster Health Alliance School of Nursing

Students attending this School of Nursing are eligible for the Henry P. and Mary B. Stager Memorial Nursing Scholarship.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, recommendations by instructors, and financial need.  Award amounts vary.  Applications are due to the School by the end of April annually.  For applications and guidelines, contact the School at 145 East Lemon Street, Lancaster, PA 17602.

Employer-Sponsored Nursing Scholarships

Healthcare employers may provide nursing scholarships to employees and local residents who need financial assistance for nursing school. These scholarships are intended to pay for education costs including tuition and books.  The following is an example of a nursing scholarship program offered by an employer.

Gratiot Physicians Foundation

Nursing students who are employees of Gratiot Hospital or residents who live within its service area may be eligible for a scholarship from the Foundation.  Students must attend an accredited nursing school to be eligible.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, documented financial need, personal essay, and letters of recommendation.  Award amounts are $1,000.  There are no deadlines for submission.  Interested students can contact the Foundation at 121 North Pine River Road, Ithaca, MI 48847.

Good Samaritan Foundation of Cincinnati, Inc.

The Foundation funds nursing scholarships for students attending the Hospital’s nursing school. Scholarships are awarded primarily based on extreme financial need.  Award amounts vary. There are no deadlines for application submission.  To learn more, students can contact the Foundation at 619 Oak Street, Cincinnati, OH 45206.

Community-Based Nursing Scholarships

Community organizations may offer scholarship opportunities to nurses and nursing students to help pay for nursing school.  Nonprofit healthcare organizations and foundations are the usual types of organizations that provide these types of scholarships. The following is an example of a foundation that provides scholarships to local residents enrolled in nursing school.

Wabash Valley Community Foundation, Inc.

Nursing students who live in the Foundation’s tri-county service area and are enrolled in accredited nursing schools may be eligible for financial assistance.  The Burnita Laybold Hershfield Nursing Scholarship is available for nursing students who attend the College of Nursing, Health, and Human Services at Indiana State University.  This particular scholarship is designated for Union Hospital employees who plan to continue their nursing career in Wabash Valley.  All scholarships have individual eligibility and submission requirements. A completed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) must be included with applications to be considered. Award amounts vary depending upon the scholarship program. Applications are due to the Foundation by mid-December annually. For additional information on available scholarships, nursing students can contact the Foundation at 2901 Ohio Boulevard, Suite 153, Terra Haute, IN 47803 or by calling (812) 232-2234.

Students seek nursing school scholarships to help cover the costs of their education. Scholarship opportunities are available from many different sources.  Nursing students can apply for all scholarships they are eligible to receive.

Nursing Scholarships for Minorities

Ways to Locate Nursing Scholarships for Minorities
Nursing scholarships for minorities are designated for specific student populations.  Scholarships typically help cover expenses of nursing school tuition and other expenses such as books and fees.  Each scholarship program has its own eligibility and submission guidelines.

Following below are examples of scholarships for minority nursing students.

National Programs for Minority Nursing Students

Multiple scholarship programs are available from national organizations, including the federal government, designated for minority nursing students.  Programs are intended to encourage qualified students who are members of underrepresented groups to enter the nursing profession. Nursing students who meet these characteristics have many career opportunities available to them after obtaining their nursing degrees.  The following are examples of national organizations that offer nursing scholarships to minority students.

National Coalition of Ethnic Minority Nurse Associations

The Coalition offers scholarships to ethnic minority nurses and nursing students enrolled in accredited nursing programs across the country.  While scholarships are available from the Coalition headquarters, there may be additional opportunities at the chapter level.  Coalition scholarships are awarded based on academic scores and potential, leadership ability, and financial need.  Awards are generally around $1,000.  Undergraduate and graduate students can apply for financial assistance.  For applications and guidelines, students can contact the Coalition at 6101 West Centinela Avenue, Suite 378, Culver City, CA 90230 or by calling (310) 258-9515.

The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America

Nursing students who are of American Indian descent are eligible to apply for the Society’s American Indian Nurse Scholarship. The Society is interested in supporting nursing students who plan to work in healthcare organizations that serve American Indians.  Students may work in hospitals or on reservations to qualify. This scholarship opportunity is open to female and male nursing students who meet all eligibility requirements.  Typical awards are $1,000 per semester.  Students interested in this program can contact the Society for applications.

American Association of Colleges of Nursing

Through the Association, minority nursing students who are interested in teaching nursing can apply for the Minority Nurse Faculty Scholarship. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, teaching potential, financial need, and letters of recommendation. Preference is given to full-time students enrolled in an accredited doctoral program.  Award amounts vary.  For applications and guidelines, students can contact the Association at One Dupont Circle, NW, Suite 530, Washington, DC 20036 or by calling them at (202) 463-6930.

State Programs for Minority Nursing Students

Most states have scholarship programs that target minority students in order to attract qualified individuals into the nursing profession.  This is in response to the need for minority nurses in underrepresented areas.  In addition to government programs, there are organizations that offer nursing scholarships to minority students on a state-wide basis. The following is an example of a state-funded scholarship program that is designated for minority students.

Kansas Ethnic Minority Scholarship Program

The Kansas Board of Regents administers this program which is for economically disadvantaged students who are members of specific ethnic and racial groups including American Indian or Alaskan Native, African American, Hispanic, or Asian.  Applicants must be freshmen at the time of application.  Minority nursing students who meet all eligibility criteria are eligible to apply.  Scholarships are awarded based on excellent academic scores and documented financial need.  Because this program is state-funded, scholarship recipients are required to attend public colleges or universities in Kansas.  Typical award amounts are less than $2,000 and are renewable.  Applications are due by the end of April annually. Students must complete the State of Kansas Student Aid Application to be considered. For additional information, contact the Board of Regent’s Student Financial Assistance office at (785) 296-3518.

Educational Institute Scholarships for Minority Nursing Students

Minority students accepted to or already enrolled in a nursing program can check with their school to determine if there are scholarships available for their nursing education.  Remember there are general scholarships open to all majors that may be available.  Students can contact the financial aid office or the nursing department to learn about these resources.  Following is an example of nursing scholarships designated for minority students.

De Anza College (California)

This community college offers the Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship to eligible nursing students. Scholarships are awarded based on financial need.  Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered.  Award amounts are $2,500.  Deadlines change each year. Interested students can contact the Financial Aid Office at (408) 864-8718 for additional information.

Employer-Sponsored Scholarships for Minority Nursing Students

Employers may offer scholarships to minority nursing students in order to have a pool of qualified individuals to recruit from for employment purposes.  This is common when health care employers prefer to hire employees who are representative of their patient population.  The following is an example of a minority nursing scholarship program sponsored by an employer.

Mary Rutan Foundation

Minority nursing students who are residents of Logan County in Ohio are eligible to apply for Foundation scholarships. All scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, letters of recommendation, documented financial need, and association with the Mary Rutan Hospital. Award amounts vary.  The deadline for submission is the end of March annually. For applications and guidelines, interested students can contact the Foundation at 205 Palmer Avenue, Bellefontaine, OH 43311.

Community-Based Scholarships for Minority Nursing Students

There are resources at the community level for minority students.  Of particular interest are family and community foundations that offer scholarships.  Many of these scholarships are designated for minority students.  They may be open to all majors or specific to nursing.  Following is an example of a foundation that offers scholarships for minority students.

The Howard Baker Foundation

The Foundation awards scholarships to minority undergraduate nursing students enrolled in the nursing program at Wayne State University.  Applicants must be residents of Detroit, Michigan to be considered.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, letters of recommendation, and demonstrated financial need.  Award amounts vary and there are no deadlines for submissions.  For applications and guidelines, students can contact the Foundation at 4057 Pioneer Drive, Suite 500, Walled Lake, MI 48390 or the Office of Scholarship and Financial Aid at Wayne State University. If you have general questions, you can call (313) 577-3378.

There are plenty of resources students can use to locate nursing scholarships for minorities.  Financial assistance is important for just about every college student today.  The more opportunities you have to get scholarships the less money you will have to pay for your education.

Nursing Research Grants

Where to Apply for Nursing Research Grants
Nurses who have ideas on how to improve patient care can get funding to undertake a research project by applying for nursing research grants. Grants are intended to fund very specific aspects of the research project. The grantor will want a final report on results that can be disseminated to other nursing professionals.

Following below are examples of organizations that award grants to nurses to conduct research.

International Organizations that Fund Nursing Research Projects

Multiple international organizations fund research grants that focus on the nursing profession.  Every grant has guidelines that must be followed when submitting a proposal for funding. The guidelines detail allowable and unallowable activities and costs.  The following is an example of an international organization that awards nurses funding for research grants.

The Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing

The Society administers multiple grant programs including the Sigma Theta Tau International/Joan K. Stout, RN, Research Grant.  This grant is for nurse researchers who have designed research projects that measure results from and aim to improve simulations that are integral to nursing education. Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited doctoral program and be licensed registered nurses in good standing.  Award amounts are $5,000. The deadline for submission is the end of June.  For applications and guidelines, contact the Society at (888) 634-7575.

National Organizations that Fund Nursing Research Projects

Several national organizations offer research grants to nurses.  These organizations are often affiliated with the nursing profession.  Membership organizations may restrict grants to nurse researchers who are members. Following is an example of a national organization that awards grants to nurse researchers.

Emergency Nurses Foundation

Nurses can apply for various research grants available through the Foundation including the ENA Foundation/Sigma Theta Tau International Research Grant, the ENA Foundation & ANIA-CARING Research Grant, the Emergency Medicine Foundation (EMF)/ENA Team Research Grant, and the ENA Industry-Supported Research Grant.  Each grant program has specific requirements that applicants must meet to be considered.  All focus on advancing some aspect of emergency nursing. Projects that align with ENA research initiatives will be given preference.  Grant award amounts vary, ranging from $6,000 to $50,000.  Submission deadlines differ depending upon the individual grant program. Interested nurses can request additional information by contacting the Foundation at 915 Lee Street, Des Plaines, IL 60016 or by calling (847) 460-4100.

Federal Grants for Nursing Projects

The federal government funds thousands of research projects every year.  There are several departments and agencies within the government that focus on health issues and are appropriate sources for grants to conduct nursing research. These grants often require the assistance of a professional grant writer to help with the writing and submission process.  Following is an example of a federal program that funds research grants.

National Institute of Nursing Research

The Institute is a collaborating arm of the National Institutes of Health that focuses on nursing research including clinical research activities.  Nurses that are not employees of the Institutes can submit requests for research grants through the Extramural Program.  Grant proposals can be submitted at any time or in response to a Request for Applications (RFA).  Applicants are encouraged to contact Extramural Program staff at any point throughout the application process. Proposals should align to the Institute’s most current funding strategy in nursing research.  Research grant requests can be mailed to the Institute, c/o National Institutes of Health, 31 Center Drive, Room 5B10, Bethesda, MD 20892.  If you have questions about the process, you can call the Institute at (301) 496-0207.

Educational Institute Grants for Nursing Projects

Nursing schools associated with large universities or hospitals often offer research grants to nurses and nursing students. Each will have specific grant guidelines that must be adhered to for proposals to be considered.  Grant selection processes are highly competitive. The following is an example of nursing program that offers research grants in nursing.

University of California Davis Medical Center

Through the Center for Nursing Research, research grants are awarded to staff nurses and nursing students.  Nurses have several grant opportunities, including the Nursing Research Small Grant Program, the Innovative Pilot Project Grant Program, and the Eula Wiley Award.  Awards range from $500 to $10,000 depending upon the grant program. Grants are awarded based on the merit of research project designs.  Interested nurses and nursing students can contact the Center at (961) 734-7817.

Foundation Grants for Nursing Projects

There are a variety of resources that provide research grants.  The most common is foundations that accept proposals for research grants.  Not all are interested in nursing so you will need to locate appropriate foundations for your research proposal.  The proposed research project will have to be described in detail in your proposal.  Following is an example of a foundation that funds research projects in nursing.

Robert Wood Johnson Foundation

The Foundation awards research grants that align with their nursing research initiatives which include improving the quality of healthcare.  Research projects can range in size.  Award amounts vary.  Unsolicited proposals are accepted at any time.  Solicited proposals must meet deadlines published in Request for Applications (RFA).  For grant applications and guidelines, nurses can contact the Foundation at Route 1 and College Road East, P.O. Box 2316, Princeton, NJ 08543 or by calling (877) 843-7953.

Applying for nursing research grants is very different than submitting applications for scholarships.  Grants require detailed project plans and budgets.  The budgets must specify how applicants plan to use grant funds.  Research grants are crucial to ongoing improvements to patient care and the nursing profession.

Nursing Grants

Types of Nursing Grants
There are many reasons nurses and students pursuing a nursing degree seek nursing grants.  Grants do not have to be repaid and must be used as indicated in the grant proposal and resultant grant agreement.  Purposes of grants vary from education support to research activities.

Many grants are for healthcare-related program development activities. Examples of grant programs for nurses and nursing students follow below.

Federal Grants

The federal government sponsors multiple grant programs in the area of nursing.  These grants are for education, research, and programs.  Grants in nursing have specific applicant eligibility requirements.  Some allow individuals to apply for funds while others restrict application to organizations.  Following is an example of a federal grant program in nursing.

Nurse Managed Health Clinics

Nurses who manage clinics that are affiliated with an accredited nursing program or otherwise qualified healthcare center may be eligible to apply for a grant.  Applicants that deliver primary healthcare services to underserved or vulnerable populations can apply. This is a highly competitive grant process.  Award amounts vary and are not renewable.  For applications and guidelines, nurses can contact the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services at (877) 696-6775.

State Grants

States may also offer grants to nurses and nursing programs.  Nurses and nursing students who receive state grants usually have to use funds to pay for their nursing education.  States determine eligibility and submission requirements for these grants.  Applicants must meet all requirements to be considered.  Following is a state nursing grant program.

Texas Hospital-Based Nursing Education Partnership Grant Program

The purpose of this grant program is to increase nursing school enrollment and the number of nursing school graduates. This is accomplished through collaborations between nursing programs and hospitals. Nursing students may be eligible for assistance by enrolling in a participating nursing school.  To learn more about the program and possible grant benefits, students can contact the Texas Higher Education Board at 1200 East Anderson Lane, Austin, TX 78752 or by calling (512) 427-6101.

New York Tuition Assistance Program

Nursing students who are residents of New York and are attending accredited nursing programs in the state are eligible to receive grants from this program. Grants are made based on academic scores and income eligibility. Grants must be used for tuition.  Award amounts are $5,000.  Students must be full-time to be considered.  Nursing students can learn more through their school’s office of financial aid.

Educational Institute Grants

Grants offered to nursing students through nursing schools are primarily for research activities.  To learn about available funds, students should contact their school’s nursing department.  Unless the grants are specifically for education, the financial aid office will not have information about them.  Following is an example of a nursing program that provides grants to students.

New Mexico State University

Students enrolled in the College of Health and Social Sciences are eligible to apply for a Pre-Nursing Grant to help pay for their education.  The grants are for freshmen and sophomore students pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing.  Grants are awarded based on academic scores and financial need.  Award amounts vary.  For applications and guidelines, students can contact the nursing department at (505) 287-6660.

Corporate Grants

Health-related corporations may sponsor grants for nursing education or research. This is particularly likely with international corporations.  Grant programs are typically administered through corporate giving departments or corporate foundations.  The following is an example of a corporation that offers grants for nursing programs.

Baxter

Through its International Foundation, Baxter awards grants for activities related to improving access to and quality of healthcare, including advanced nursing practices.  Grants are approved primarily for programs and services that target underserved communities.  Awards are made based on the quality of program design, implementation methods, and evaluation.  International applications are accepted. Award amounts vary as do deadlines. Interested nursing students or organizations can contact the Foundation at One Baxter Parkway, Deerfield, IL 60015 or by calling (847) 948-2000.

Foundation Grants

Foundations are a main source of grant money.  Nurses and nursing students may be eligible for grants from local, regional or national foundations.  Grant guidelines detail requirements to get funding as well as reporting procedures upon completion of the funded project.  If a particular foundation does not award grants to individuals, nursing students can usually still submit requests if they have an appropriate fiscal sponsor. The following is an example of a foundation that provides grants to nurses and students enrolled in nursing programs.

Danville Regional Foundation

The Foundation awards healthcare grants including those for nursing that improve the health and wellbeing of people who live in communities served by the Danville Regional Medical Center in Virginia.  Grants related to nursing fall under the Foundation’s “Health and Wellness” initiative.  Interested applicants should submit a letter of inquiry briefly outlining their grant request.  Letters should be no longer than two pages and must be mailed to the Foundation at 103 South Main Street, Danville, VA 24541.

Nursing grants are available for a variety of purposes.  They are provided by the federal government, nursing schools, and foundations among other sources.  Grant funding is restricted to the purpose identified in the grant proposal submitted by the nursing applicant.

Military Nursing Scholarships

Military Nursing Scholarships for Higher Education
Military nursing scholarships are available to graduating high school students, enrolled military personnel, veterans, and family members of deceased members of various branches of the military.  Each program has specific eligibility and use restrictions.  They may even have post-graduation requirements.

Following below are examples of scholarships available from the military and other organizations for nursing students.

Federal Programs

The government administers multiple scholarship and other education programs for military personnel.  Financial assistance is available to individuals willing to serve in the military either before or after receiving their nursing degree.  The following are examples of such nursing scholarships offered through the Navy.  Similar opportunities exist within every branch of the military.

Navy Nurse Candidate Program

Students who complete this program become members of the Navy Nurse Corps.  They work closely with Navy physicians in service to navy service members and their families. Scholarships can range as high as $35,000 depending upon the length of training. Typical awards include $10,000 and $1,000 monthly stipend for two years. Awards cover tuition and living expenses.

Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC)

This is an excellent opportunity for high school students interested in a nursing career. Students participating in the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) can receive up to $180,000 in nursing scholarships to attend an accredited nursing program anywhere in the country.  Students must be enrolled in a program where they will earn a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing.  Awards cover tuition, books, fees and a small living stipend.

Practicing Nurse (PN) Program

If you have completed your nursing education and are currently employed as a nurse, you probably have substantial student loan obligations. You may want to consider joining the military as a way to pay off your student loans.  Nurses who join the navy can receive significant sign-on bonuses in exchange for service commitments.  Bonuses range from $20,000 to $30,000 and require a three to four year commitment.  Nurses willing to sign on for five years in the Navy can receive $40,000 to pay off nursing student loans in addition to a $20,000 bonus

Non-Federal National Programs

There are national organizations that are not associated with the government that offer military-related nursing scholarships.  Financial assistance from such programs can help supplement other scholarships for your nursing education.  Following is an example of a national organization that offers nursing scholarships.

The Army Nurse Corps Association

The Association provides scholarships to undergraduate and graduate nursing or anesthesia nursing students enrolled in accredited nursing programs. Students must be pursuing at least a four-year degree to be considered.  Scholarships are available for students who plan to enter or already served in the Army.  Awards cannot be used for military-funded nursing programs. Nursing students who are spouses or children of Army veterans can apply for financial assistance.  Award amounts vary but are typically around $3,000.  Applications are due to the Association by the end of March annually.  For applications and guidelines, contact the Association, c/o Education Committee, P.O. Box 847, Manhattan, KS 66505.

State Programs

In addition to the federal programs, many states offer additional scholarship opportunities for former and current military personnel to pursue a nursing degree. Most financial assistance is available regardless of major; however, there are programs that focus on nursing and medical training.  The following is an example of a state that provides scholarships to veterans.

Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs

The Department administers multiple financial aid opportunities for veterans, their spouses, and their children. Financial aid programs include the Montgomery GI Bill for active duty and selected reserve personnel. Veterans interested in pursuing a nursing degree and meet all eligibility requirements can apply to receive nearly $1,325 per month for 36 months. Spouses and children of disabled or deceased veterans can receive up to 45 months of financial aid under through the Survivors and Dependents Education Program and Louisiana’s Title 29 Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program. Education benefits vary depending upon the program. Nursing students interested in any of these financial assistance programs can contact the Department at 1885 Wooddale Boulevard, P.O. Box 94095, Baton Rouge, LA 70804 or by calling (225) 219-5000.

Educational Institute Scholarships

Nursing students who are veterans may be able to apply for veteran scholarships as well as nursing scholarships through their nursing school.  The nursing department may not have information about veteran scholarships so students will need to visit the school’s financial aid office to learn more.  The following is an example of school that offers veteran scholarships, nursing scholarships, and nursing scholarships for active duty members and veterans.

Michigan State University

Students enrolled in the College of Nursing are eligible for multiple scholarships.  Nursing students who are military veterans may be eligible for the Captain Sean Grimes Nursing Endowed Scholarship or the Mary Milner-Estes Endowed Nursing Scholarship.  These scholarships are for Army Reservists, members of the Active Army or Army National Guard, or veterans of these branches who are enrolled in the nursing school.  Students can learn more about these as well as scholarships for veterans that are not specific to a particular field of study by contacting the Office of Financial Aid at (517) 353-5940.

Community-Based Nursing Scholarships

Community organizations may offer nursing scholarships to veterans or their dependents.  Groups such as Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFWs) or other service-related organizations may be a source of financial aid for members. Other organizations, such as foundations may also offer scholarships specifically for this population.  The following is an example of a foundation that offers scholarships to veterans.

Military Ex-Prisoners of War Foundation, Inc.

The Foundation provides scholarships to former prisoners of war, their spouses, and their children.  Nursing students who meet this criterion are eligible to apply for assistance.  Scholarships are based on academic scores, documented financial need, letters of recommendation, and a personal essay.  Award amounts vary.  There is no deadline for scholarship requests. For guidelines, contact the Foundation at 916 Bingham Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28304 or by calling (910) 867-2775.

Eligibility requirements vary for military nursing scholarships.  There are multiple programs and organizations that provide scholarships and other financial aid to nurses and nursing students as well as veterans and their family members. By learning about the various opportunities, nursing students may be able to access additional scholarships for nursing school or to pay off nursing student loans.

Male Nursing Scholarships

Male Nursing Scholarships to Pay for College
Men are actively recruited to become nurses and seek male nursing scholarships to help defer costs associated with nursing school.  While most nursing scholarships are gender neutral, there are some that specify female or male applicants.  Scholarships specifically for male nursing students can be challenging to find.

Following below are examples of scholarship programs for male students studying for a nursing degree.

American Assembly for Men in Nursing

The Assembly administers several scholarship programs for male nursing students.  The Jadeh Marselis-Moore Scholarship and the John Murray Scholarship are awarded based on an essay response.  Essay prompts as well as submission deadlines change annually.  Only Pre-RN students can participate in these scholarship contests. Typical award amounts for both are $500 with no restrictions on use.  For additional information, contact the Assembly at P.O. Box 130220, Birmingham, AL 35213 or by calling (205) 956-0146.

Scholarships Related to Extracurricular Activities

Male nursing students are often involved in activities outside of nursing such as sports or community service projects. Students may be eligible for a variety of scholarship opportunities that can help pay for their nursing education. Following is an example of this type of scholarship.

Boy Scouts of America

Through their Young American Awards, the Boy Scouts of America offers scholarships to undergraduate and graduate male students younger than 25 who have been nominated by a Boy Scout Troop or similar program such as an Explorer post.  Students must have demonstrated excellent in a particular field of study such as nursing, be involved in a community service activity, and have excellent academic scores.  Three letters of recommendation must be submitted with the final application.  Applicants do not have to be a member of the nominating group to be considered.  Awards are $5,000.  Nominations are due to the local council by November annually.  For additional information, students can contact the Scouts, Attn: Learning for Life Division, S210, 1325 West Walnut Hill Lane, P.O. Box 152079, Irving, TX 75015 or by calling (972) 580-2418.

Educational Institute Nursing Scholarships for Male Students

Male students enrolled in a nursing program should talk to a financial aid representative to learn about available scholarship opportunities.  Many will be open to both genders but there may be some designated for male nursing students. The nursing department may also have information on these scholarships.  The following is an example of a school that offers nursing scholarships to male students.

Jacksonville State University

Male students enrolled in the nursing program at the University are eligible for a variety of nursing scholarships including the Dr. George Gibbins Scholarship and the Calhoun County Medical Alliance Society Scholarship.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores and documented financial need.  Typical award amounts range from $1,000 to $2,500.  Deadlines vary depending upon the scholarship.  Interested students can learn more about these opportunities by contacting the Financial Aid Office at (256) 782-5006.

Employer-Sponsored Nursing Scholarships for Male Students

Employers trying to recruit male nurses may offer scholarships to male nursing students with the stipulation that the student commit to work at the company upon graduation.  This is common for hospitals and other healthcare organizations.  Following is an example of an employer that offers scholarships to male nursing students.

St. Joseph Hospital Foundation, Inc.

The Foundation awards scholarships to male nursing students who are currently enrolled in a nearby nursing program.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, documented financial need, and letters of recommendation.  Only undergraduate students will be considered.  Students who receive scholarships must agree to work full-time at St. Joseph Healthcare upon graduation and receiving state certification.  Award amounts vary.  There is no deadline for applications.  Students should be prepared to participate in an interview with Foundation staff as part of the application process.  For applications and guidelines, contact the Foundation at One St. Joseph Drive, Lexington, KY 40504 or by calling (859) 313-1000.

Community-Based Nursing Scholarships for Male Students

Male nursing students can also receive scholarships from local sources including nonprofit healthcare organizations and foundations.  Both family and community foundations offer scholarships so there may be opportunities for male students to secure additional nursing scholarships.  Following is an example of a foundation that provides financial assistance to male nursing students.

Olin Scott Fund, Inc.

The Fund provides student scholarships and loans to residents of Bennington County in Vermont.  Only men enrolled in an accredited college or university in Vermont at the time of application are eligible to apply for financial assistance.  Male nursing students are eligible for up to $4,000 per year and a maximum of $16,000 over a four-year period.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores and letters of recommendations.  An interview with a Fund committee member is required.  Completed applications are typically due to the Fund by August annually.  There is a $25 application fee associated with this financial assistance opportunity.  For applications, contact the Fund at 407 Main Street, P.O. Box 1208, Bennington, VT 05201 or by calling (802) 447-1096.

Sources for male nursing scholarships may be challenging to locate but they are out there. Scholarships can be used to pay for tuition and other expenses related to nursing school.  Male nursing students can apply for these scholarships as well as general financial aid.

LPN Nursing Scholarships

LPN Nursing Scholarships for Initial and Advanced Training
An LPN is a Licensed Practical Nurse. Students seeking LPN nursing scholarships are interested in becoming licensed practical nurses.  These nurses are responsible for patient care and have many opportunities for advancement even without additional education.  Nursing scholarships can help students pay for their nursing education.  Costs covered may include tuition, books, fees, and possible living expenses.

Following below are examples of programs that offer nursing scholarships for LPN students.

Specialty Scholarships for LPN Professionals

Like other nurses, an LPN will  often specialize in a particular area of nursing. This allows nursing students to hone skills that will be particularly useful in their area of expertise. The following is an example of a scholarship program for LPN students.

Emergency Nurses Association Foundation

The Foundation awards scholarships to Licensed Practical Nurses who are currently employed in emergency care.  With nearly 30 scholarships, there are multiple opportunities for LPNs to apply for financial assistance including the Betty J. Smith, RN Memorial Scholarship and the Charles Kunz Memorial Undergraduate Scholarship. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, current work record, and financial need. All applicants must be members of the Emergency Nurses Association to be considered.  Award amounts range from $2,500 to $5,000, depending upon the scholarship program. Applications are due to the Foundation by June annually. For applications, LPNs can contact the Foundation at 915 Lee Street, Des Plaines, IL 60016.

Educational Institute Nursing Scholarships for LPNs

As soon as you have been accepted into nursing school, you should find out about any scholarships available through your school that you may be eligible to apply for to help pay for your education.  Your school’s financial aid office and nursing department will have information on available scholarships for LPN students.  Following is an example of a college that offers scholarships for LPN nursing students.

Wallace Community College (Alabama)

The College offers five scholarships to students enrolled in the LPN program.  These include the Career Ladder Scholarship, the Licensed Practical Nursing Program Scholarship, and the Tuition Assistance Scholarship.  Scholarships are awarded based on high academic scores and financial need as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Award amounts vary but typically cover between three and five semesters of tuition.  Students should generally apply for financial aid once they have been accepted to the College.  Interested students can learn more about these scholarship opportunities by contacting the financial aid office.

Employer-Sponsored Nursing Scholarships for LPNs

Local employers may offer scholarships to LPN students.  These are likely to be healthcare organizations.  Major employers often administer scholarship programs for employees and their children.  The following are examples of employers than offer scholarships to LPN employees.

Valley of the Sun Hospice Association

The association offered scholarships for advanced nursing education to Hospice employees.  Current LPN employees are eligible to apply for financial assistance to get a higher degree.  Applicants must agree to continue working for the Hospice for at least 2 years after receiving tuition assistance.  Scholarships are awarded based on current standing, financial need, and letters of recommendation.  Award amounts vary.  There are no deadlines for submission. Interested employees should contact the Association at 1510 East Flower Street, Phoenix, AZ 85014 or by calling (602) 530-6900.

Little Company of Mary Community Health Foundation

LPNs who are employed by Little Company of Mary are eligible to apply for financial assistance to pursue a higher degree.  Scholarships are awarded based on work history, commitment to Little Company of Mary, and a personal essay outlining future goals.  Award amounts vary and applications are accepted at any time.  For applications, employees can contact the Foundation at 4101 Torrance Boulevard, Torrance, CA 90503 or by calling (310) 303-5340.

Community-Based Nursing Scholarships for LPNs

There are several resources at the local level that LPN students can pursue when researching scholarship opportunities.  Nonprofit healthcare organizations may offer scholarships to local residents who plan to serve the community upon graduation.  Foundations may offer scholarships to local students pursuing a nursing degree to become an LPN.  Following are examples of foundations that provide nursing scholarships to LPN students.

QueensCare

Nursing students enrolled in a four-year LPN program at an accredited university may be eligible for the Gene and Marilyn Nuziard Scholarship through QueensCare, a faith-based organization in Los Angeles.  Awards are made based on academic scores, documented financial need, and willingness to work in Los Angeles County upon graduation. Applicants must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), letters of recommendation, and a personal essay along with their request for assistance. Scholarship recipients will receive $9,000 each year of their four-year program.  Funds can be applied to tuition costs, books, and other fees. Completed applications are usually required by mid-May annually.  Interested students can contact QueensCare at 1300 North Vermont Avenue, Suite 1002, Los Angeles, CA 90027 or by calling (323) 953-7341.

Joan Camp Memorial Scholarship Foundation

Students interested in pursuing an LPN degree and are residents of Princeville School District in Illinois may be eligible for a scholarship from the Foundation.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores and documented financial need.  Awards vary and there is no submission deadline.  For applications, contact the Foundation at 11801 North Princeville-Jubilee Road, Princeville, IL 61559.

Students who research LPN nursing scholarships will find many opportunities available.  Scholarships are offered at the local, state, and federal levels.  These nursing scholarships help students cover nursing school expenses.

International Student Nursing Scholarships

How International Student Nursing Scholarships Can Help Pay for College
If you are interested in studying nursing in a country other than your own, international student nursing scholarships are ideal to help pay for your nursing education. Depending upon the actual nursing program, tuition costs for international students can be double or triple the regular cost.  Without scholarships and other forms of financial assistance to help offset costs, it can be prohibitive for many international students to pursue a nursing education.

Following below are examples of nursing scholarships that international nursing students can learn about.

International Programs for Nursing Students

Multiple international programs offer nursing scholarships to international students.  These programs focus on sharing knowledge between countries that help advance health care across borders.  Each has individual eligibility requirements that nursing students must meet to be considered.  Following are examples of organizations that offer financial assistance on an international basis.

Global Scholarship Alliance

The Alliance’s mission is to address the shortage of nurses that exists on a global level.  To achieve this goal, they offer work/study scholarships to international nursing students who have been accepted to accredited colleges and universities in America.  Applicants must be current nurses seeking advanced training at the graduate level. Scholarships are used to cover tuition and related educational costs.  Living expenses are covered by the students through their employment at hospitals affiliated with their nursing schools.  International nurses interested in this opportunity can contact the Alliance at (513) 665-4544 for additional information.

International Federation of University Women

The Federation offers scholarships and other financial aid programs that enable women to pursue higher education.  Applicants must be Federation members and funding is open to all fields of student, including nursing.  Fellowships awarded by the Federation are for doctoral or post-doctoral nursing students.  They typically last between 8 and 12 months.  Grants are for shorter periods of time, generally from 2 to 6 months.  Nursing students seeking financial assistance for training in a specialized area should apply for a grant. National affiliates, including France, Australia, Great Britain, Japan, India, Sweden, and South Africa offer separate scholarships, grants, and fellowships for undergraduate and postgraduate research. Award amounts range between $3,200 and $10,900 and are not renewable. Submission deadlines differ by country.  Applicants must plan to use their award in a country other than their own.  Interested nursing students should contact their national director for applications, guidelines, and deadlines.

Federal Programs for International Nursing Students

The federal government provides financial assistance to American nursing students interested in studying nursing abroad.  These programs provide excellent learning and training opportunities for nursing students. Following is an example of a school that offers scholarships to international nursing students.

Gilman Scholarship Program

The U.S. Department of State and the Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs jointly fund this program for undergraduate nursing students.  Students must be U.S. citizens, currently enrolled in at least a 2-year nursing program, and receiving the Pell grant to be eligible for the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship.  This scholarship is for students who want to study at a nursing program outside the country.  This program awards $5,000 for international study.  Applications are available twice each year.  Interested students can contact the Program at Institute of International Education, 1800 West Loop South, Suite 250, Houston, TX 77027 or by calling (832) 369-3484.

National Programs for International Nursing Students

Multiple national programs exist that provide nursing scholarships to international students. For many, the eligibility requirements remain the same as with national applicants.  Scholarships help cover the cost of international study which is generally higher than in-country education.  This financial assistance helps qualified international students attend state-of-the-art nursing programs.

Foundation of the National Student Nurses’ Association

The Foundation’s Scholarship Program is open to international nursing students who have an Alien Registration number.  Applicants must be enrolled in accredited nursing or pre-nursing programs to be considered.  The only graduate students eligible for assistance are those who do not have an undergraduate degree in nursing or healthcare.  The Scholarship Program is not open to high school students.  Scholarship awards are made based on academic scores, nursing activities, community service record, and documented financial need. Award amounts typically range from $1,000 to $2,500.  Applications are usually due to the Foundation in January annually.  There is a $10 fee to apply for financial assistance. For applications and guidelines, students can contact the Foundation at 45 Main Street, Suite 606, Brooklyn, NY 11201.

Educational Institute Scholarships for International Nursing Students

If you are an international student accepted to or already attending a nursing school, you can visit the financial aid office to determine if the school offers nursing scholarships to international students.  The nursing department may also have information on these scholarships.  Following are examples of schools that offer scholarships to international nursing students.

Slippery Rock University

International nursing students attending the University can apply for three scholarships: the Carol Holland Scholarship, the International Student Scholarship, and the Stan Kendziorski Scholarship. Each scholarship has individual eligibility and award requirements. Award amounts are $1,000.  Applications are due by mid-March annually. Interested international nursing students can get applications by contacting the International Services Office at (724) 738-9000.

Community-Based Scholarships for International Nursing Students

Community organizations are another source of possible scholarships for international nursing students.  It can be challenging to find scholarships at the local level so plan to research local organizations, regional groups, and foundations.  Following is an example of a community-based organization that offers international scholarships to nursing students.

Rotary International

Scholarships are awarded through the Rotary Foundation which allows students from around the world to pursue studies in vocations including nursing in other countries.  Students become ambassadors from their home country and teach local Rotary groups and other organizations about their culture. When they return home, they share their experiences and lessons learned with their own Rotary clubs.  Undergraduate and graduate nursing students are eligible for this opportunity.  Award amounts are $25,000.  Students interested in this program should contact their local Rotary club for applications and guidelines.

International student nursing scholarships are critical to help students pay for nursing school.  The cost for an international education is much higher than traditional education.  By applying for as many financial assistance programs as possible, international nursing students can get much of their college education paid.

Hispanic Nursing Scholarships

Applying for Hispanic Nursing Scholarships
There are excellent opportunities for students interested in receiving Hispanic nursing scholarships.  These scholarships limit eligibility to Hispanic students pursuing a nursing degree. They are available to both Hispanic men and women.

The growing cost of a college education often requires students to seek scholarships and other financial assistance to defer costs. Hispanic nursing students can also apply for general nursing scholarships to help pay for nursing school. Following below are examples of organizations that offer nursing scholarships to Hispanic students.

National Programs for Hispanic Nursing Students

The federal government funds multiple scholarship programs in various disciplines. There are other national organizations that also administer scholarship programs for Hispanic students.  In addition to nursing scholarships, Hispanic students can apply for general scholarships that are available solely for students of Hispanic heritage.  Following is an example of a national program for Hispanic students open to Hispanic nursing students.

National Association of Hispanic Nurses

Through the Association, Hispanic nursing students are eligible to apply for scholarships to help pay for nursing school costs. The Association has chapters across the country that students can become members of to receive additional supports. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, leadership potential, and financial need.  So far, it has mostly been Hispanic women who have benefited from these scholarships due to their being more female applicants as compared to males. Typical award amounts are $1,000.  Deadlines vary.  For applications and guidelines, contact the Association at 1455 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Suite 400, Washington, DC 20004 or by calling (202) 387-2477.

Hispanic Scholarship Fund

The Fund offers over 20 scholarship programs for Hispanic students enrolled in 2-year or 4-year accredited colleges and universities.  Hispanic nursing students are eligible for several of these opportunities including the General College Scholarship and the Gold Standard Scholarship among many more. Each scholarship program has individual eligibility and submission requirements including specific deadlines.  Awards vary greatly by scholarship and can range from $1,000 to over $10,000.  Interested students can contact the Fund at 55 Second Street, Suite 1500, San Francisco, CA 94105 or by calling (877) 473-4636.

The SallieMae Fund

Hispanic-American nursing students who are the first member of their immediate family member to attend college may be eligible for the First in My Family Scholarship.  Undergraduate nursing students can apply to this program.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores and documented financial aid.  Award amounts range from $500 to $5,000. This opportunity is not open every year so it is important to monitor Fund guidelines. Typical deadlines have been in March.  For additional information, contact the Fund at 11100 USA Parkway, Fishers, IN 46037.

Heritage Scholarships for Hispanic Nursing Students

Students should consider scholarship opportunities not related to nursing that Hispanic nursing students may still qualify for.  These financial assistance programs can supplement nursing scholarships or even pay for a substantial portion of your education.  Eligibility requirements focus on a student’s ethnic heritage.  Following are examples of heritage scholarships for Hispanic nursing students.

Cuban-American Scholarship Fund

Undergraduate and graduate nursing students of Cuban descent may be eligible for a scholarship from the Fund.  Students must be California residents or attending a nursing school in the state.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores and financial need.  The typical award amount is $750. Applications must be submitted by mid-April annually.  For applications and guidelines, contact the Fund at P.O. Box 6422, Santa Ana, CA 92706.

Salvadoran American Leadership & Educational Fund

Nursing students of Central American descent or other Latino ethnicity may be eligible for the Health Career Scholarship offered by the Fund. Undergraduate and graduate nursing students who live in San Fernando Valley, Greater Los Angeles, or San Francisco Bay area can apply. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, community service record, and financial need.  Each scholarship has a community service requirement. Award amounts vary.  Applications are typically due by May annually.  For applications and guidelines, students can contact the Fund at (213) 480-1052.

Educational Institute Scholarships for Hispanic Nursing Students

Whether recently accepted into or already enrolled in a nursing program, Hispanic students can check with the nursing department and the financial aid office to determine the availability of nursing and other scholarships. Following is an example of an educational institution that offers nursing scholarships to Hispanic students.

College of Saint Scholastica

This college is located in Duluth, Minnesota. Hispanic students enrolled in the School of Nursing to obtain a graduate degree may be eligible for the RWJF New Careers in Nursing Scholarship. The purpose of the scholarship is to attracted individuals from underrepresented groups to the nursing profession.  Hispanic nursing students meet this criterion.  Scholarships are awarded based on academics and financial need.  Award amounts are $10,000. Applications are typically due at the beginning of the year.  For additional information, students can contact the Office of Financial Aid at (218) 723-6047.

Employer-Sponsored Scholarships for Hispanic Nursing Students

These scholarships may be offered specifically for employees or their children. Employers interested in recruiting Hispanic nurses may offer scholarships to encourage Hispanic individuals to consider nursing as a career.  Some employers may simply fund scholarships while others have post-graduation requirements.  This typically entails students working for the employer for a period of time after graduating with a nursing degree. Following is an example of a scholarship for Hispanic students.

Ortega Charitable Foundation

This opportunity involves brokers of Goya Foods, Inc.  Broker employees and their children may be eligible for scholarships from the Foundation.  Applicants must be of Latino ancestry and be residents of Florida to be considered.  Nursing students who meet these criteria can apply.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores and financial need.  Awards range from $1,000 to $10,000.  Applications are due to the Foundation by the end of May annually.  For applications and guidelines, students can contact the Foundation at 2000 N.W. 92^nd Avenue, Doral, FL 33172.

Community-Based Scholarships for Hispanic Nursing Students

Hispanic students also have resources at the local level that provide scholarships.  These will most likely be Hispanic nonprofit organizations and foundations.  Both family and community foundations provide scholarships. Each scholarship opportunity has individual eligibility and submission requirements.  Following are examples of community-based scholarship programs for Hispanic nursing students.

Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Philadelphia Region, Inc.

Graduating high school students of Hispanic heritage who plan to pursue a nursing degree may be eligible for scholarships from RMHC. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, extracurricular activities, and financial need.  Award amounts vary. Applications are accepted at any time.  For applications and deadlines, contact RMHC at One Oxford Center, 20^th Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 or by calling (412) 392-2000.

Augustin A. Ramirez, Jr. Family Foundation

If you are a Latino student who graduated from the Waukesha County High School or lives in the Greater Milwaukee Standard Metropolitan Statistical Area and you have been accepted to an accredited four-year nursing program, you may be eligible for a scholarship from the Foundation.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, leadership potential, and documented financial need.  Award amounts range from $500 to $3,000.  Applications are usually due to the Foundation by April annually.  Interested students can contact the Foundation at 411 East Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 2040, Milwaukee, WI 53202 to request an application.  Completed applications are to be submitted to the Foundation, c/o Scholarship Program Coordinator, P.O. Box 257, Waukesha, WI 53187.

Eligible students should consider Hispanic nursing scholarships to help pay for nursing school costs.  There are a variety of sources for these scholarships.  And students can apply for multiple scholarships.

Nursing Scholarships for High School Students

Most nursing scholarships are offered to high school students who plan to pursue a nursing career after college graduation.  These careers are in high demand because of a nursing shortage across the country.  If you already know the nursing schools you plan to apply to, consult with them on possible nursing scholarships available from them.

Undecided students can work with their high school’s guidance office staff to identify nursing school scholarship opportunities. In addition, the following below are ways high school seniors can get nursing scholarships.

State Nursing Scholarships for High School Students

In response to the nursing shortage, many states are currently offering nursing scholarships.  Most are restricted to graduating high school students with demonstrated financial need. This is to encourage high school students to consider nursing as a viable career option.  Students can learn about these opportunities through their high school guidance office or by contacting their respective state department of higher education.

Religion-Affiliated Scholarships for High School Students

High school students who attend church or are affiliated with a particular religion may be eligible for scholarships that can be used toward a nursing education.  These scholarships are available from church groups, religious nonprofits, and private foundations.  Following is an example of such a scholarship.

Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Hartford

The foundation administers the Rhea Sourifman Caplin Memorial Scholarship Fund which awards nursing scholarships to Jewish high school seniors who reside in the Greater Harford area.  Scholarships are based on merit including academic scores and community service activities.  Awards range from $1,000 to $2,000.  Applications are due to the Foundation by mid-April annually.  For current applications and guidelines, contact the Foundation at 333 Bloomfield Avenue, Suite D, West Hartford, CT 06117 or by calling them at (860) 523-7460.

Scholarship Contests for High School Students

Contests and competitions are another way high school students can obtain nursing scholarships.  Contests may require an essay or video submission. The contests may not be related to the nursing industry but scholarships can be used for your nursing education.  The following are examples of scholarship competitions.

Elks National Foundation

High school students who plan to attend an accredited college or university can participate in the Most Valuable Student Competition to win scholarships. The competition involves students demonstrating high academic achievement, leadership qualities, community service, and documented financial need. The competition begins at the local level and progresses to nationals. Approximately 500 winners from the across the country are announced every April.  Awards range between $1,000 and $15,000 per year.  All awards are four-year scholarships.  Recipients must enroll in a four-year degree program on a full-time basis to remain eligible.  Contact your local Elks lodge to learn about annual competitions.

Scholarships Related to Extracurricular Activities

Extracurricular activities can lead to scholarship opportunities for high school students.  Students who participate in team sports may be able to get an athletic scholarship that can help pay for nursing school.  Nursing scholarships may be designated for high school athletes who live healthy lifestyles. Scholarships are available for high school students who are or have been Girls Scouts or Boy Scouts, participate in 4-H clubs, or other similar activities.  Following is an example of this type of scholarship.

California 4-H Foundation

High school students who live in California and are a member of a 4-H Youth Development Program may be eligible for a Dean Memorial Legacy Scholarship.  Scholarships are awarded based on leadership qualities, ability to connect their future goals to their 4-H experience, and personal essay.  Awards are $1,000 and are not renewable. This opportunity is open to all majors, including nursing. Applications are due to the Foundation by April annually.  For applications and guidelines, contact the Foundation, Attn: Youth Development Program, University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources, One Hopkins Road, Davis, CA 95616 or by calling (530) 754-8518.

Special Eligibility Scholarships for High School Students

Certain scholarships have very specific eligibility requirements that do not fit in other categories.  For example, if you have a parent who is a veteran, you may be eligible for scholarships you can apply toward your nursing education. Or if you are a graduating high school senior with at least one parent who has passed away, you can apply for scholarships with this criterion.  Following is an example of a special eligibility scholarship program.

California Department of Veterans Affairs

If you are the child of a disabled California veteran, you may be eligible for a waiver of tuition and fees if you plan to attend a nursing program at a public community or state college in California. Veterans must meet specific criteria for students to apply for this financial assistance opportunity. This is not a need-based program but applications are highly competitive. There is no restriction on field of study so nursing students who meet all eligibility criteria may submit applications. For additional information, students can contact the Department, Attn: Division of Veterans Services, 1227 O Street, Room 101, Sacramento, CA 95814 or by calling (916) 503-8397.

Heritage Scholarships for High School Students

High school students who belong to specific ethnic groups may be eligible for additional scholarships that might be but are not necessarily specific to nursing.  The scholarships can still be used to cover the costs associated with their nursing education.  Following is an example of a heritage scholarship for high school students.

Arab American Institute Foundation

The Foundation offers the Helen Abbott Individual Community Service Award to Arab American high school students.  Students must be of Arab descent and have a history of community service.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, record of community service activities, and a personal essay.  Students must commit to a future of community service (in any way).  This is open to all majors. Nursing students who meet eligibility criteria can apply.  Awards are $1,000.  Applications are due to the Foundation by March annually.  For applications, contact the Foundation at 1600 K Street, N.W., Suite 601, Washington, DC 20006 or by calling (202) 429-9210.

Educational Institute Scholarships for High School Students

General and nursing-specific scholarships may be available to high school students through the college or university they plan to attend.  To learn more about these opportunities, students should contact the school’s financial aid office.  Following is an example of college-specific scholarships for high school students.

Oklahoma City Community College

High school students who have been accepted into the College’s nursing program are eligible to apply for a variety of scholarships. For example the High School Scholarship Program is open to local high school students who plan to pursue a two-year degree at the College. There are no restrictions on fields of study so nursing students can apply.  Scholarships are for tuition costs. Award amounts vary.  Students should apply for this scholarship as soon as they have been accepted to the College. Interested students can contact the Recruitment and Admissions office at (405) 682-6222.

Employer-Sponsored Scholarships for High School Students

High school students can contact major employers in their community to determine if they offer scholarships to students pursuing nursing degrees.  Healthcare employers such as hospitals often provide scholarships to local residents willing to work at the hospital for a period of time after graduating from college.  In addition, students may be eligible for scholarships from their parent’s employer.  Following is an example of an employer-sponsored scholarship opportunity.

Edward M. and Henrietta M. Knabusch Scholarship Foundation

The Foundation awards scholarships for undergraduate study to graduating high school students who has at least one parent working at La-Z-Boy, Inc.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, documented financial need, community service activities, and letters of recommendation.  There are no restrictions on college majors so nursing students who meet all eligibility criteria can apply.  Awards range from $1,000 to $2,000.  All awards are renewable for an additional three years.  Recipients must be enrolled full-time to be considered.  There are no deadlines for submission.  For applications and guidelines, contact the Foundation, c/o Monroe Bank & Trust, 102 East Front Street, Monroe, MI 48161.

Community-Based Scholarships for High School Students

High school students are eligible for community-based scholarships from organizations that include civic groups, local nonprofit organizations, and foundations.  Most foundation scholarships are specific to where a student attends high school or lives with the remaining focusing on field of study.  The following is an example of a community-based scholarship opportunity for high school students.

Cass County Community Foundation, Inc.

The Foundation’s scholarships are for graduating high school students only.  Students must be high school seniors in Cass County, Indiana.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, financial need, letters of recommendation, and community services. Awards vary depending on the specific scholarship but usually do not exceed $2,000. All college majors, including nursing, are welcome to apply.  Scholarships are typically for the first year of college and are not renewable. The Foundation hosts orientations at all county high schools and attendance is mandatory to be considered.  Applications are generally available in the fall in conjunction with the informational meetings.  For more information, contact the Foundation at 417 North Street, Suite 102, P.O. Box 441, Logansport, IN 46947 or by calling (574) 722-2200.

Nursing scholarships for high school students are abundant. They tend to have more opportunities for financial assistance than other students simply because they are considered “traditional” students.  Taking this into consideration, pursue as many options as possible to get your educational expenses paid for.

Graduate Nursing Scholarships

Graduate Nursing Scholarships for Career Advancement
Many nurses are interested in advanced career options and seek graduate nursing scholarships to help pay for additional education.  Nursing students in advanced nursing programs are eligible for a variety of scholarships to help defer graduate level education costs.  The more education a nurse has, the more job opportunities are available.

Following below are examples of nursing scholarships for graduate students.

State Programs for Graduate Nursing Students

In response to the growing demand for qualified nurses, many states have scholarships available for graduate students in nursing.  Typically these scholarships are administered through the nursing schools but each state has specific guidelines that detail how the scholarships are to be used.  Following is an example of a state nursing scholarship program for graduate students.

Maryland Graduate Nurse Support Program

This program offers the Graduate Nursing Faculty Scholarship and Living Expenses Grant.  The intent is increase the number of skilled teaching faculty in Maryland Schools of Nursing for the purpose of aggressively attracting and keeping qualified nurses in hospitals throughout Maryland.  The Program is open to registered nurses who wish to teach nursing at nursing schools in the state.  Nurses must be sponsored by the director of a nursing school to be considered.  Applications are accepted three times throughout the year.  Only Maryland residents already enrolled in an accredited Maryland college or university can apply.  Undergraduate students are not eligible for this opportunity.  This is a merit-based program. Award amounts are no more than $13,000 for an academic year for full-time students and are renewable for one additional year. The scholarship must be used to pay for tuition and fees.  Each scholarship award requires a service commitment from the recipient – one year of service for one year of financial assistance. For additional information, contact the Maryland Higher Education Commission’s Office of Student Financial Aid at (410) 767-3301.

Educational Institute Scholarships for Graduate Nursing Students

Graduate nursing students can often identify potential scholarships through their nursing school.  However, these tend to be very competitive so it is a good idea to have a backup plan.  Students can talk to advisors in the school’s financial aid office or the nursing department about these scholarship opportunities.  Each scholarship will have individual eligibility and submission requirements.  The following is an example of a graduate program that offers scholarships to students.

Hawaii Pacific University

Graduate students enrolled in the College of Nursing and Health Sciences are eligible for Graduate Scholarships.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, community involvement, work experience, essay, and documented financial need.  Annual award amounts range from $2,000 to $6,000.  Applications are due by mid-April and mid-October annually.  A completed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) must be included with the application package.  Interested students can contact the University’s Graduate Admissions Office at (808) 543-8034.

Employer-Sponsored Scholarships for Graduate Nursing Students

If you are a working nurse, your employer may offer scholarships to help employees get advanced training.  Students interested in pursuing graduate studies in nursing can ask their supervisor or a human resources department representative if scholarships are available.  Following is an example of an employer that offers nursing scholarships to employees to get advanced degrees.

Suburban Hospital Foundation

The Foundation awards nursing scholarships for graduate students attending nursing schools in or near Bethesda, Maryland.  Donations from the Eugene B. Foundation helped create the Casey Endowment for Nursing. Graduate students who receive scholarships from the endowment become Casey Scholars.  Each scholarship award requires the receiving student to be employed by Suburban Hospital to assist with nursing vacancies. Award amounts are $2,500.  Applications are typically due to the Foundation by April annually.  For additional information, graduate students can contact the Foundation at (301) 896-3971.

Inova Health System

Through the Edelman Nursing Career Center, Inova administers the Nursing Excellence Scholarship Program which has several financial assistance opportunities for graduate nursing students including the Advanced Practice Scholarship and the John and Nina Toups Doctoral Scholarship. Awards range from $5,000 to $15,000 depending upon the scholarship. In addition, students who apply to the Scholarship Program are automatically considered for two graduate scholarships: the Carl and Josie Biggs Nursing Scholarship and the Karlgaard Family Scholarship.  Both offer awards of $5,000. Eligible applicants include Inova employees and nurses as well as college seniors with demonstrated academic achievement in the area of nursing.  Students must commit to working at Inova after graduation. Applications are typically available during the first quarter of each year.  Deadlines for applications will be specified at that time.  For additional information, contact the Edelman Center during regular business hours at 8110 Gatehouse Road, Suite 200, Falls Church, VA 22042.

Community-Based Scholarships for Graduate Nursing Students

Many foundations offer nursing scholarships for graduate students. Residency is usually required for eligibility.  This means that the student must live in the community served by the foundation.  If you work in a different county than you live, you may be eligible for scholarships from both jurisdictions.  The following foundation is an example of a community-based organization that offers nursing scholarships to local graduate students.

Peter V. Westhaysen Medical Education Trust

Graduate nursing students who are residents of Illinois may be eligible for Trust scholarships. Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores, commitment to nursing, work and volunteer experience, and financial need.  Award amounts vary.  Applications are typically due to the Trust by the end of May annually.  Interested students can request an application by writing the Trust, c/o First Midwest Bank, 2801 West Jefferson Street, Joliet, IL 60435.

Nurses can get graduate nursing scholarships to help pay for advanced training.  Scholarships pay for tuition and, depending on the scholarship, other expenses related to your education such as books and fees. This reduces the financial burden on graduate nursing students.

First Generation Nursing Scholarships

First generation nursing scholarships are for students who are the first member of their immediate family to attend college.  These scholarships are provided to students to help cover the costs of a higher education including tuition and books.  First generation scholarships provide incentive for qualified individuals to consider attending college when they may not otherwise view it as an option.  The majority of these scholarships do not require study in a particular discipline, so nursing students qualify as long as other eligibility requirements have been met.

The Suder Foundation

The Foundation sponsors the First Scholars program at various colleges across the country.  All applicants must be first generation full-time students pursuing their first undergraduate degree.  This program is open to all disciplines, including nursing.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores and potential as well as financial need. Awards are made by participating colleges and universities such as Washington State University and the University of Memphis.  The Foundation requires scholarship recipients to develop strategic plans for their college experience.  Each program provides ongoing support to scholarship recipients. Scholarship awards are $5,000 per year and are renewable for an additional three years. To learn more about this first generation scholarship, contact your school’s financial aid office and ask if they participate in the program.

State Programs

Several states fund scholarship programs for first generation students.  Most are not specific to a particular field of study so nursing students should be able to apply as long as they meet all other eligibility requirements. The following is an example of this type of scholarship opportunity.

Florida First Generation Matching Grant Program

This program is designed to help first generation college students who are residents of Florida and have documented financial need to enter into college. Need is determined by the student’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) which must be submitted to be considered. As long as the student’s parents did not earn a degree at the baccalaureate level or above, and the student plans to attend a state-funded nursing program that participates in the state-funded first generation program, they should consider this financial assistance option.  These scholarships are awarded directly through the participating schools so interested students should contact their school’s financial aid office for information pertaining to application guidelines and deadlines.

Educational Institute Scholarships

First generation students enrolled in nursing schools may qualify for special scholarships.  The best approach is to meet with an advisor at your school’s financial aid office.  They will be able to provide you with information on scholarships you are eligible to apply for, including those for first generation students.  Following is an example of a college that offers a first generation scholarship that nursing students can apply for.

St. John Fisher College

First generation students who are graduating high school seniors accepted to the College’s Nursing Program may be eligible for financial assistance from the Fannie & Sam Constantino First Generation Scholarship Program. This scholarship is open to all eligible students regardless of field of study.  Scholarships are awarded based on financial need and potential for success.  Awards begin at $5,000 and can include room and board for on-campus students.  All First Generation Scholars are required to tutor and mentor younger people from the area for the purpose of encouraging them to see higher education as the first step to a better future.  Interested nursing students should contact the College at (585) 385-8000 for further information.

Corporate Scholarships

Several corporations sponsor first generation scholarship programs.  Most are open to students regardless of residency or field of study. If the scholarships are administered directly through partnering educational institutions, there may be additional eligibility requirements.  Following are examples of corporate first generation scholarships.

Coca-Cola Company

The company sponsors the Coca-Cola First Generation Scholarship. Primary eligibility criteria include being the first member of your family to pursue a college degree, academic scores, and documented financial need.  Coca-Cola gives scholarship funds to partnering educational institutions.  Interested students should contact their school’s financial aid office to determine if this financial assistance program is available.  There are no restrictions on field of study so nursing students are eligible for this scholarship opportunity.

Walmart

Through its Foundation, Walmart has partnered with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund to sponsor the First-Generation Scholars Program.  Scholarships are available to students enrolled in participating colleges and universities including public Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Predominantly Black Institutes (PBIs).  Both merit and need factors are considered for awards.  Scholarships are typically around $4,400 per year paid in equal installments over two semesters.  Students are required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered.  Students can learn if their college participates in the program by contacting their school’s financial aid office.

Community-Based Scholarships

First generation students can receive further financial assistance through local community-based organizations such as nonprofit organizations and community foundations that offer scholarships.  The following is an example of a foundation that offers first generation scholarships.

The Rhode Island Foundation

The Foundation awards scholarships to students who are residents of Rhode Island.  The Patty & Melvin Alperin First Generation Scholarship is available for graduating high school students who are the first person in their family to go to college. There is no restriction on fields of study so nursing students who meet all other eligibility requirements can apply for assistance.  Scholarships are awarded based on academic scores and documented financial need.  Applicants must prove acceptance to or enrollment in accredited colleges. Both two-year and four-year programs are acceptable.  Awards are typically around $1,000.  Applications are usually due to the Foundation by the end of April annually.  For applications and guidelines, contact the Foundation at One Union Station, Providence, RI 02903 or by calling (401) 274-4564.

There are multiple ways to obtain first generation nursing scholarships.  They reward nursing students for taking that very important first step toward a rewarding career in nursing – a college education.  First generation nursing students can apply for multiple scholarships.

Federal Nursing Scholarships

Federal nursing scholarships are available from different agencies and departments of the federal government.  These scholarships are designed to encourage students from underrepresented groups to attend nursing schools throughout the country.  Nurse shortages in specific geographic locations are also the target of several government nursing scholarships.  All federally-funded nursing scholarship programs require students to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered.

The following below are examples of nursing scholarships sponsored by the federal government.

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Many nursing scholarship programs are administered through this Department.  It provides the majority of federal aid to nursing schools through such programs at the Nursing Scholarship Program.  The primary purpose of Department funding is to develop a pool of nurses who will work in underserved areas across the country.  Students who receive Department scholarships are typically required to commit to work for a period of time in a location identified to have an extreme shortage of nurses.  The following are additional nursing scholarship program offered by the Department.

National Health Service Corps Scholarship Program

Coordinated by the Bureau of Clinician Recruitment and Services, the Corps offers several scholarship opportunities, each with specific service requirements.  For each year of financial assistance provided by the Corps, nursing students are expected to work at least one year in a location designated as a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA).  There is a two-year minimum and four-year maximum service requirement.  In return, students will receive financial assistance for tuition, books, and fees.  A taxable living stipend is provided monthly to eligible students.  Only students pursuing degrees to become a nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or certified nurse-midwife are eligible to apply for this program.  Interested students must apply directly to the Corps for funding. Applications are available and are due during the spring of each year. For applications and guidelines, contact the Bureau at (800) 221-9393.

Healthcare Scholarships for Disadvantaged Students

This program is coordinated by the Department’s Bureau of Health Professions.  It is for economically disadvantaged students interested in pursuing a nursing career.  Students must be enrolled full-time at an accredited nursing school to be considered.  Scholarships are awarded based primarily on financial need as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Award amounts vary and can be used to cover tuition costs, books, fees, and living expenses.  Interested students can apply for this scholarship directly through their school’s financial aid office.

Undergraduate Scholarship Program

The National Institutes of Health offers scholarships to disadvantaged nursing students who plan to pursue a career in health-related research that focuses on behavioral, biomedical, or social science issues.  Current enrollment in an accredited four-year nursing program is required.  This program is not open to graduating high school students. Scholarships are awarded based on high academic scores and “exceptional financial need.” Typical awards are $20,000 each year which are to be used for tuition costs, books, fees, and living expenses.  Scholarships are renewable for a total of four years.  Students will receive paid training at the Institutes during the summer.  The Institutes hires students who successfully obtain their nursing degree. Applications are typically due by the end of January annually and are available directly from the Institutes.

U.S. Department of Defense

The Department administers multiple nursing scholarship programs for various branches of the military that seek qualified nurses.  These scholarship programs typically require a service commitment from scholarship recipients.  Following is an example of a nursing scholarship offered by the Department.

U.S. Army Health Professions Scholarship

The Medical Department offers multiple scholarships for undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate nursing students.  The F. Edward Hébert Armed Forces Health Professions Scholarship Program is a popular military nursing scholarship.  Scholarship recipients receive full tuition and a stipend for monthly living expenses.  This program is for graduate nursing students attending any accredited nursing program at a college or university in the country.  Students who receive this award receive a sign-on bonus of $20,000, scholarships that pay for tuition, books and fees and a monthly stipend that exceeds $2,100.  When school breaks, students receiving training with an army team and are paid at Officer’s rate for their time.  Upon graduation, students enter active duty as a nurse.  Service commitment is one year in the army for each year of scholarship receipt.  Students interested in this opportunity should contact the Army directly for additional information.

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Nursing scholarships are available through the Department for individuals who have already served in the military as well as their families.  The Department also offers nursing scholarships to employees and non-employees who are willing to work at the Department upon graduation.  The following is an example of a scholarship program open to non-employees.

Health Professional Scholarship

This program is intended to recruit qualified nursing staff to work at VA medical centers across the country.  Full-time nursing students who are enrolled in an accredited nursing program may be eligible for this scholarship.  Students must commit to work at a VA medical center for at least two years after graduation.  Scholarship recipients must become licensed prior to their employment. Awards are to be used for tuition costs, books, fees, and living expenses.  Students interested in this opportunity should contact the Department directly for additional information including applications and guidelines.

U.S. Department of Education

The Department offers merit scholarships to students who meet high standards of academic achievement established by the department.  These scholarships, while not specific to nursing, are open to nursing students who meet all eligibility requirements.  Following is an example of a Department scholarship program.

Academic Competitiveness Grant

This scholarship opportunity is for graduating high school students who completed rigorous academic programs during high school.  Nursing students who meet all eligibility requirements for these scholarships can apply for financial assistance.  Students must be receiving the Pell Grant to be eligible. Part-time students are eligible as long as they are enrolled on a half-time basis. Award amounts are $750 for freshman year and $1,300 for sophomore year of college. Students can learn more about this financial assistance program by contacting their high school’s guidance office or their nursing school’s financial aid office to get applications and guidelines.

Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant

Economically disadvantaged nursing students may be eligible for this federal financial assistance program.  Students must be enrolled in an undergraduate nursing program to qualify.  Only students who are currently receiving the Pell Grant and have an extremely low Expected Family Contributions (EFC) obligation are likely to receive this award.  Awards are made based on need, date of application, and where you attend school.  Award amounts range from $100 to $4,000.  Nursing students can learn more about this program by contacting their school’s financial aid office.

Students can use federal nursing scholarships at nursing schools across the country.  In addition to federal financial assistance specifically for nursing education, students can access additional federal aid from numerous federal agencies that will supplement nursing scholarships.  The combined awards cannot exceed the total cost of your education, but the more you apply for, you may be able to get your entire nursing education paid in full.

Veterinary Nurse Training Courses

Veterinary Nurse Job Description
After taking the required veterinary nurse training courses, a veterinary nurse is one of a number of para-veterinary workers who assist a veterinarian; however, unlike veterinary assistants, a VN has a protected title and certification requirements. He/she may be required to observe animals (taking pulse, temperature and so on), manage wounds (dressing and splinting), catheter procedures, ear and eye flushes and injections.

In addition, the VN may need to analyze skin, blood and urinary specimens. Although a great deal of their work is clinical, they also have a huge investment in hands-on performance and care with the animals. A special love and rapport with pets is absolutely essential to the veterinary nurse’s success, as well as owner and peer rapport, and the ability to successfully collaborate with thesupervising veterinarian. She is also an educator, directing pet owners to healthy and stable care choices for their pets, and on occasion an advocate for animal rights and anti-cruelty.

How to Become a Veterinary Nurse:  Schooling

As with most nursing careers, human or animal, an early start is recommended: you should get all the high school math, chemistry and biology you can. However, if you know your specialization is going to be as a veterinarian technician or technologist, you should enroll in a veterinary training program, an accredited university that specializes in preparing professionals in animal health care.

Once enrolled, you should be prepared to train as a veterinarian technologist, a four-year course that yields a bachelor’s degree. The program will include some of the following veterinary nurse training courses:

–        Principles of Medicine

–        Radiology (surgical, which is the same paradigm as radiological surgeries for humans)

–        Pharmacology and anesthesia administration

–        Veterinary clinical pathology (specialization course)

–        Animal care, management and nutrition (specialization course)

Veterinary Nursing Certification

Once you have completed the veterinarian technician or technologist schooling (and the latter is definitely preferred as it gives many more job opportunities), you can sit for the VTNE (Veterinary Technician National Examination), which allows you to achieve certification as a veterinary nurse. Most veterinarians require this certification before they will hire you

Animal Care Experience for VNs

In addition to certification, most veterinarians require multiple hours of animal care experience in an internship (at the veterinarian’s office) or an externship (a facility outside of the veterinarian’s office, such as a zoo or animal care facility). The student should work with both small animals (cats, bird, dogs) to large (horses and rural animals).

Fortunately, most veterinarians also allow for internships that provide the minimal hours necessary for certification. Usually, the budding veterinary nurse works as a veterinary assistant, a less demanding role than that of veterinary nurse, and the novice will probably be placed under the tutelage of an actual veterinary nurse for most of the training. The role of assistant could extend from simple observation of animals (vital signs) to actual assistance in animal surgery, depending on the rigor of the training program undertaken.

You do not need to achieve RN certification or similar status to work as a VN, and the course work is much less strenuous, particularly in internships. The hours required will vary from institute to institute, and most training programs will offer both the training and examinations necessary to complete the classification of Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing. However, you should look to complete at least 500 to 1,000 hours of part-time animal care hands-on training to be competitive in the VN job market.

Where Veterinary Nursing Is Going and How Much it Pays

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook is excellent for a VN; the demand may grow beyond 38 percent by 2018. The starting salary range is between $20,356 to $30,677 for VNs with less than a year of experience.

This increases exponentially with the number of hours of Animal Care Experience, and with the Bachelor’s level of certification as a Veterinary Technologist, going as high as $44,002 annually. A Master’s level will command $65,000 and more.

In short, there’s never been a better time to take your love of animals and translate it into a fulfilling life-long career by registering for veterinary nurse training courses.

Trauma Nurse Training

What a Trauma Nurse Does
Trauma nurse training leads to a specialty position, which falls under the heading of “Emergency Nurses.” A trauma nurse deals specifically with patients who are the victims of physical damage to the extent that trauma, either physical or emotional/mental, has set in. These nurses must be able to provide special care while diagnosing and treating injuries in emergency care situations, including head, muscle, organ, tissue, body or skeletal injuries.

In addition to such elementary triage on patients, they must also be able to cast and splint fractures and bone breaks, administer for shock symptoms, suture and provide bandaging for major and minor wounds, prepare the patients for surgeries, and even administer anesthesia in some cases.

The main purpose of a trauma nurse is to obviate the effects of trauma, a major contributor to shock, damage and death in the early stages of profound injury. This obviously requires a person who not only has the required medical training and experience, but can keep a cool head and an even temperament during the most trying emergency situations.

How to Train as a Trauma Nurse

All medical facilities expect Trauma nurses to be Registered Nurses first, and to hold a valid Registered Nurse (RN), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) license. You must therefore prepare for this specialty by completing RN training. In high school and preparatory college courses, you should emphasize mathematics and the sciences (biology, chemistry, anatomy);  onceyour education reaches college level, you should attend either a university with an accredited nursing program, or a nursing training facility with similar accreditation (once you have completed preliminary curriculum at college level).

As soon as you have passed the Registered Nursing examination for your state, you can attend any of a number of hands-on training courses in Trauma specializing.

Please note:  in order to certify as an RN, you must have completed at least 1,000 hours of hands-on clinical experience. Trauma nurse certification, depending on your state, will require at least 2,000 hours of clinical experience in an emergency room or trauma setting, and four thousand will be the preferred number experientially for you to be competitive in this job market.

Specific Areas of Trauma Nurse Training

Some specific hands-on experience and training you must achieve before being allowed to certify as a trauma nurse include the following areas:

–        The biomechanics of injury

–        Assessments and diagnosis

–        Airway and ventilation clearing

–        Shock treatments

–        Specific trauma treatments (for brain, face, neck, thorax, abdomen, spinal cord and skeleton)

–        Burn trauma treatments

–        Patients with special needs: aged, pregnant, child and infant

–        Care and transition of trauma patients

Many of these in-house trauma nurse training programs are offered by specific medical facilities where you train and/or are hired as an RN. The most frequent certification is from the TNCC (Trauma Nursing Core Course) programs. You must complete the examinations successfully as well, and TNCC verification is issued then from the American Board of Nursing Specialties.

You can subsequently train in your selected facility to obtain certification (again, an examination is required) as a TNS (Trauma Nurse Specialist), TNP (Trauma Nurse Practitioner) or even a TNCC instructor. This is also a step towards obtaining further certification as an ER nurse.

Job Outlook and Salary for the Trauma Nurse

The trauma nurse, as well as all other emergency medical technicians, has a job outlook that is “good” according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, growing “about as fast as the average” for all such occupations, an average of 9 percent between 2013 and 2018, and a median starting salary of approximately $60,000.

One reason the BLS feels that this figure may inflate beyond 9 percent is due to the increased crowding in emergency rooms throughout the country. More crowded ERs means more medical professionals, including trauma nurses, will be needed to spend additional time with patients before a doctor is able to see them, and also increases the demand for trauma with all their TNCC training in place, as much of it will become practical very quickly in an ER situation.

The trauma nurse job is not for everyone, obviously, but if you can work life-saving techniques in high-pressure situations you may be an excellent match to this challenging and life-giving profession, so trauma nurse training is something you should definitely consider.

Training courses for Nursery Nurses

Job Description of a Nursery Nurse
The Nursery Nurse should ideally be a Registered Nurse (RN), or an individual with a Bachelors of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree; virtually all hiring posts for Nursery Nurses require this  (Nursery Nurse, incidentally, is the current term used in Great Britain; in the United States, the position is known as Newborn Nursery Nurse).  The NN is naturally accountable for the health of the child for whom she cares, but her role in the child’s development is also substantial.

A Nursery Nurse or Newborn Nursery Nurse is not only a medical professional, but also an assistant and advocate for a child in its early years (sometimes, if the family is able to afford one,  the position is a live-in job).  She assists the child not only in health problems and illnesses, and the development of healthy habits, but also in social skills (such as sharing and cooperation), physical development (fine and gross motor skills), intellectual cognition, creative abilities, emotional awareness and self-confidence.

She functions as nurse, teacher, advocate and “childhood expert.”  A foundation in early childhood education is highly desirable in this profession.

Training courses for Nursery Nurses

Post high school (and you hopefully did well in mathematics and such sciences as biology and chemistry, as these are mainstays of the nursing profession), you should at college level seek out a BSN degree or Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) program. Enroll in a nursing program that allows you to complete at least a Bachelor’s degree or an Associates Degree in nursing as well as the necessary classes for an RN classification.  The Master’s degree program, is even more desirable as virtually all competitive (and well-paying) job openings for Nursery and Newborn Nursery start at this level.

As you move into the BSN or MSN program, one of the qualifications for consideration in any nursing job is your clinical experience of 1,000 to 4,000 hours (the latter is ideal to make you competitive in the nursing job market).  This is where Nursery/Newborn Nursing is probably most beneficial for those who want to remain in child care, as it provides many hours of clinical experience with young children, but one does not always need a Bachelor’s degree in order to work under supervision in this field.

Working As a Nursery Nurse for Clinical Experience

An inexperienced individual can still work as a Nursery Assistant while enrolled in a nursing school, although Nursery Assistants seeking internships will be competitive only with an accredited nursing program in their future, either near completion or at least mid-way.  Frequently, assistants are not hired per se; they themselves arrange an internship or other suitable placement within a nursery, home or child care facility.

Ideally, both a Nursery assistant and Nursery Nurse should possess an Associate degree in Child Care, Learning and Development.

Nursery Nurses and Newborn Nursery Nurses are required, in addition to their nursing school completion, to be registered with the state in which they work, and achieve their NRP within the first few months of employment.

The NRP, incidentally, is a training course separate from the BSN and MSN, but one that is vital for the Nursery Nurse who may find herself in a situation where she must revive a choking or non-responsive infant or child.  NRP stands for Neonatal Resuscitation Program, and every nurse or doctor who works with the newborn must achieve competence in this technique.

Once you have completed your BSN and achieved the status of RN, specialization programs are open to you for further training in Newborn Nursery work, and you can further your education and experience as you complete an MSN program.

Job Outlook and Salary

Newborn Nursing (Nursery Nursing) is seeing a resurgence in recent years, according to the Bureau of Labor/Statistics.  They share a “favorable” job outlook with most other positions requiring an RN certification, and a growth potential up to 27% from 2008 to 2018 (based, no doubt, on the ever-increasing population of younger parents requiring child and nursery care).   Average median salary would fall at $67,720 approximately.

The training courses for Nursery Nurse should be your first step to a lively and rewarding career of caring for the young. 

Technology in Nursing Education

How is Technology Changing the Face of Nursing?
Imagine it’s 1999 (that’s when the movies predicted that we’d all have flying cars), and you’re visiting your doctor.  Your nurse sticks the thermometer in your mouth for up to three minutes, wraps the cuff around your arm (you have to take your shirt off to get it on properly) to take blood pressure.  She inflates the device by hand-pumping that little red bulb at the end of the tube, and she has you say “Ah” with the stick in your mouth.  She marks the readings in your chart (the doctor will see them later today), and she’s off.

Now it’s today.  Your thermometer is a metered reader that has a temperature in five seconds, your blood-pressure cuff slips over your shirt and is self-inflating, your “AH” stick is now a light, and the nurse is recording the information on the doctor’s website (and he can see it immediately).

That is merely the technology a patient sees in a single visit; imagine how much technological impact is found in current nurse education.

What Does This Mean to the Nursing Student? 

It means that swift technological changes in healthcare management require nurses to be not only competent, but cutting edge in using the latest technical tools to practice their patient care.  It also mandates any nursing programs out there to bring to its fledging nurses a complete set of training programs to aid in the assimilation and understanding of the new frontiers in medicine.

Nurses and educators alike must be aware of the technical implementations that are changing and developing every week, and affecting (and generally greatly improving) the quality and consistency of health care delivery.

What Are Some Ways Technology Will Affect My Nursing Education? 

To give an example: where previously a fledging nurse trainee might clutter up the operating theater by standing behind the doctor or watching from the upper seats, now she can see, via computer, a clinical simulation of the entire procedure, rendered in 3 dimensional CGI, a training session that not only introduces her to operating theater practices but plays out several scenarios of what might go wrong if incorrect decisions are made (try simulating that with a real patient!).

The same kind of simulative learning can be used in training for patient diagnosis, brainstorming for problem-solving, presenting ethical dilemmas and solutions, demonstrating triage and basic first care in emergency situations, and even (assuming the holographic equipment is available) a hands-on simulation where she interacts with the scene.

What Would Be Expected of a Nurse with a Technological Education? 

Say an administrative nurse, for example, has been trained in the technological paradigm (as distinguished from the assistive, medical or administrative model).  She should be able to identify strategies and technologies that improve the clinical practice of her facility.  She might also be expected to know techniques that would create more “learning realism” in computer-simulated experiences.  She might even be expected to create models of communication that allowed medical information to travel to colleagues with the same speed, and the same total technological involvement, of a process such as Twitter or FaceBook.

How would a regular nurse use technology in her education?  She would need to be thoroughly comfortable with computers, not only to record information and report to doctors and other colleagues, but to create and work out simulations, covering everything from a cancer growth or a baby’s ultrasound to a simple appendectomy or a complex spinal cord procedure.  Her studies might include virtual anatomy (the body and its organs studied under every possible stressor) or virtual sciences (25 separate chemical reactions documented without a single real chemical doing any harm to anyone).  The possibilities, as those old movies about futuristic societies once told us, are literally endless.

Should I Ensure that I Receive Technology in Nursing Education? 

You should insist on it!  Be absolutely sure that the nursing program you enroll in has the best possible simulations and the latest technological advances.  If they have them available, they’ll be proud to show them off.   If they won’t show them off, well, what does that tell you?

So make sure you receive training in Technology in Nursing Education; it’s the key to the future of nursing. 

What Does an LPN Do?

What is an LPN, anyway?
LPN stands for Licensed Practical Nurse. Before you become an LPN, you will need to first attend an accredited LPN program. The preconditions before you are accepted into any LPN program are what are termed as LPN Prerequisites. Licensed Practical Nursing is an occupation that the OOH (Occupational Outlook Handbook) defines as a caregiver for “people who are sick, injured, convalescent or disabled.”  You are at the patient’s bedside, sometimes alone and sometimes with other professionals, but you’re always learning.

What does an LPN do?

Simply put, the LPN provides health care for the patient in the medical setting. That “setting” might be a hospital, hospice, nursing home, crisis center or similar facility.  “Healthcare” can also be defined in a number of different ways. You might monitor vital signs, administer medical procedures (such as enemas or injections), help the patient bathe, dress and move about the facility, escort the patient to consulting rooms or the operating theater, record his/her reactions to medications and treatments, and generally make yourself useful, one patient at a time.

You might also collect urine/stool and blood samples, note and record food and liquid needs, sterilize equipment.  In an emergency, the LPN may even be a midwife to a woman near her term of delivery, if no other medical professional is available. LPNs can work in hospitals, crisis centers, hospices and nursing homes.

The LPN Prerequisites: What are they anyway?

Generally, LPN Prerequisites vary depending on the LPN school you are applying to. each will have similar but different admission requirements.

It might seem a bit obvious, but the most important requirement to become a successful LPN is a desire to learn nursing.  That desire, if it’s genuine, should manifest itself in high school, where you should do very well in math and science (and if you cannot do math, biology and chemistry, you cannot nurse; it’s as simple as that).

In college, you then take advanced courses in those same sciences, and advance to such disciplines as psychology and behavioral sciences, anatomy and the human body, medical ethics, physiology and biology/chemistry.

The good news is that you do not need a college degree to become an LPN.  Most programs accept applicants after only the first year of college, with no more than a High School degree (in states they will accept a high school equivalency).

The bad news is that if you do not advance beyond being a Licensed Practical Nurse; your salary, benefits and salary will remain lower than that of Registered Nurses.  Because of this, a lot of those nurses with LPN qualifications eventually pursue RN (Registered Nurse) degree courses.

So the main prerequisite requirements before admission to an LPN program are advanced science and mathematics courses in high school and college, and preferable a year in an institution of learning.

Science and Maths are also requirements to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs, RN programs, and the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs.  An LPN certification is at best foundational to moving up the educational hierarchy.

You can, if circumstances don’t allow real hospital training, take LPN courses at a vocational college or community college center.   You can also, if you’re really up against expenses, complete some LPN courses online (make absolutely sure your online course is accredited).

Anything else I should know about being an LPN? 

Be aware that at some point you will need to complete between 250 and 500 hours of clinical experience in a facility with patients and under supervised care.  But all that is for later when you’re a year along in your studies. Once your LPN studies are completed, you will then need to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam. Once that exam is passed, you can then call yourself a Certified LPN.

LPN Career Outlook and Salary.

The Bureau of Labor and Statistics says that LPN positions will increase by some 21 percent from now until 2018.  The average yearly LPN salary is $39,000, whereas a Registered Nurse can get $60,000. 

Nursing Jobs With Insurance Companies

What Is an Insurance Nursing Job?
There are basically two kinds of nursing jobs that can work out of insurance companies, and one of these can even work from home telecommuting.  They include the RN Practitioner for Health Plan and Insurance Assessments, and the case manager for an insurance company.

In case you were wondering, you must be a registered nurse (RN) first in order to apply for either job.

How Do I Make RN? 

Once you’ve passed high school and shown your excellent math and biology/chemistry skills (and if you don’t excel in these, do NOT take up nursing), head for college to sharpen these very same attributes of yours in advanced classes.  After a year or so, sign up for a Nursing Program (you can pre-register and take preliminary classes as early as high school, by the way).

You are looking to achieve not only an RN but a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) or, better still, an MSN (Masters of Science in Nursing degree), which will make you even more attractive to the insurance company.   An MBA with a nursing background would be a gold mine for them, so if that is your bent, by all means pursue it.

Once you have completed the 4 to 6 years necessary for the MSN (and this will include up to 4,000 of supervised clinical hands-on experience), you can sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.   And of course, complete your Master’s degree in thesis and exams.

Now About Those Nursing Jobs With Insurance Companies–?

So now you’re an RN with a BSN or MSN; in other words, you can get a job in this field.  So let’s talk about the telecommuter first (be aware that, even though you work from home, you should be within driving distance of one of the insurance company’s branch offices).

The Case Manager (Critical Claim Review) Nurse

Don’t let the humble title fool you; this individual is usually listed as a Critical Claim Review Nurse.  Because she works from home, her position seldom requires a security clearance.  She will be in charge of reviewing medical claims from insurance customers with diseases, conditions, injuries or related misfortunes of a medical nature.

The Critical Claim Review Nurse is  a contract hire, who must be able to disseminate, over the phone if necessary, information about services the company offers and rates of payment.

Many of these claims will receive system-generated denials; that is not, however, the end of the case, as the CCRN must review them thoroughly in the event of a claims reconsideration (which can be requested by the patient, the agent or even the company).   She then forwards unresolved cases to field medical directors with her recommendations, completes patient reviews and forwards them to the Insurance Company’s Transactions department.

Her job, like that of many other registered nurses, shows a favorable outlook from the Bureau of Labor/Statistics. A projected 21-27% growth over the next ten years, and a salary of around $60,000 (some are paid hourly, average wages $31-$43).

The Registered Nurse Practitioner—Health Plan/Insurance Assessments

The RN for Health Plan Insurance Assessment usually must have at least 3 years medical experience in addition to the MSN, and a license in good standing.  Like the CCRN, she is a contract hire who conducts in-person health plan assessments with prospective and actual clients (whose medical conditions may have changed since purchasing the policy).   This is a traveling job, in that the RN goes to clients’ homes.

She must be able to relay all relevant health information to the company agents, as well as conduct interviews and record information at the same time (excellent typing/stenographer skills are a plus).   She must be a licensed and insured driver, with professional liability insurance, and must provide her own vehicle.

Her job is also “favorable” in outlook from the BLS, a projected 21-27% growth over the next ten years, and a salary of around $55,000 (some are paid per assessment, average wage $100-$115).

So, you’ve seen the two major Nursing Jobs with Insurance Companies.   Do they insure your career and future any better?  

School Nurse Training

School nurse training allows the school nurse to pursue a career far more vital than just handing out aspirin and band-aids. She is a specialized individual within the venue of professional nursing, one who ensures the health, success, strength and stability of the young students at her site, as well as promoting a pervasive school environment of safety, care and healthful practices.

School Nurse Job Description & Scope of Practice

A school nurse’s first duties are to attend to injuries, incidents and illnesses of the students in the school. She must not only be an outstanding nurse in impromptu treatment and triage situations, swiftly diagnosing and treating student health problems (both actual and potential), she must also be prepared to work with other staff members to increase advocacy for student well being.

In the latter area, she must be able to refer serious health problems to the proper medical facility (and ensure the student’s transportation thereto), and she must act as an educator for faculty and community, insuring their understanding of the need for healthy and sustainable choices in their lives. She should be able to establish an excellent rapport with her charges, and with her peers in the school faculty and the nursing field. She is, in short, the first “line of defense” on a student’s way to the doctor’s office. She is also the only health professional some children see in the course of their day, as many have parents who lack health insurance or a regular medical provider.

How to Train as a School Nurse 

School nurse training begins early in your educational journey. If any form of nursing is your dream, the earlier you begin training, the better. You will need college level (or even high school level) classes in mathematics and the various sciences (with particular emphasis on biology and chemistry). Obviously attendance at a well-accredited nursing school is next, with particular emphasis on as much hands-on and on-site experience as possible; you should look for registered nursing training programs that offer extensive practical internships.

Your goal is to achieve a course completion as an RN (Registered Nurse). The Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree training program will include:

–        Standard curriculum for college level students (again, emphasis on the sciences and math). Expect completion in one to two years.

–        Advanced nursing courses in health assessment, child/infant care and types of nursing, as well as medical ethics and advanced chemistry and biology. This may take another year.

–        Clinical experience in hospital and medical facilities, another year at the very least.

How to Certify as an RN

School systems generally require that their nurses should be RNs. This procedure involves the following requirements:

–        You must pass the NCLEX-RN, an examination for “categories of client needs.”

–        You must have at least 1,000 hours clinical practice experience.

–        You must pass your state’s RN examination.

–        You should be on track to obtain a Nurse practitioner certificate and Master’s degree in Nursing.

How to Certify as a School Nurse

In addition to the RN exam, you must pass a certification examination as a school nurse. This exam carries the following requirements:

–        Certification by NBCSN and completion of 1,000 hours school nursing practice experience (this is in addition to the 1,000 hours completed as an RN; many states recommend at least 4,000 hours or three academic internship years).

–        Pass the Certification examination for school nurses.

Clinical Practice Requirements for Nurses

There are two kinds of clinical practice available for the school nurse to fulfill requirements in hours. They include direct clinical practice (nursing in the school setting, particularly with special needs children) and indirect clinical practice (the clinical supervision of school nurses, and consultation in school nursing that enhances the practice—these are usually within the purview of an RN).

School Nurse Demand and Salary

There is high demand for school nurses now, particularly in special needs settings and special education schools. This demand is likely to increase in direct proportion to the increasing number of students with special needs, disabilities or chronic/acute health problems, as well as the number of students who receive health care exclusively at their schools because their parents lack health insurance.

The median salary for school nurses begins at $35,197 to $55,622, depending on the state in which you are employed and the school for which you work. All you need to begin this rewarding career is to enroll in a school nurse training in a program near you.

SANE Nurse Training

What is SANE Nurse?
SANE means Sexual Assault Nursing Examiner. SANE nurse training prepares you for examining, assessing and especially caring for victims of sexual assault. You are dealing with living individuals, and you must be able to gain their trust and establish both a professional and caring rapport quickly. You do this because your examination will be evidentiary, forensic and invasive, as you gather evidence of sexual assault both for treatment purposes and criminal prosecutions. This examination and set of diagnostics can be traumatic for the victim, as many of them “relive” the experience in the examination.

The Sexual Assault Nursing Examiner must be on call 24 hours, and may frequently work for a program that coordinates with a rape crisis center. The examiner’s proximity to the care facility is vital; she must be there no later than an hour after the victim’s arrival. The double duties of this post are essential but difficult: you must, in a professional way, obtain forensic evidence, while similarly offering crisis intervention strategies and counseling, including testing for STI, drug testing (if a “date rape” or similar drug is suspected) and possible emergency contraception (if, for example, the patient wishes a “24 pill” to obviate possible pregnancy).

How to Train to be a SANE Nurse

To begin, you are training to be an RN, as no one approaches this field without at least RN certification from the American Board of Nursing. To achieve the certification of RN, you should begin early (in high school or college at the latest) with basic classes in mathematics and the sciences (biology, chemistry, anatomy and forensic medicinal procedures, if available).

At college level, you should register with an accredited Nursing training programor through a major university that offers, at the very least, a Bachelor of Science (BSN) degree level certification. Please note that an associate’s degree will not be sufficient to allow you to be competitive in the Forensic nursing field; similarly, a Master’s level in Forensic nursing is hugely advantageous.

After at least two years of advanced courses in medical ethics, care and advanced sciences, you should be prepared to spend at least two years invested in hands-on clinical experience in hospital and rape crisis settings.

Most RNs have a basic requirement of at least 1,000 hours to complete certification; specializations in nursing (including SANE and other Forensic examiner positions) require at least another 1,000 hours (the ideal level is 4,000 to be job-competitive in the field, obviously involving a huge amount of time in your training and education).

Specific Training for SANE certification

There are numerous programs in crisis centers, medical facilities and even online to offer SANE nurse training for beginners, but your 4,000 or so hours of hands-on clinical work should specialize in the following disciplines. These are recommended by American Forensic Nurses for training in certification as a Forensic Examiner or SANE nurse:

–        Identify/collect forensics evidence within the health care setting, maintain its viability for legal use.

–        Establish communication with victim advocates, law enforcement and the judicial members of the forensic team

–        Learn treatment techniques for triage and emergency interventions for victims of assault

–        Know basic policies/procedures for conducting evidentiary exams with child and adult victims

–        Know psychologically sound counseling and care methods for victims

What the SANE Nurse Can Expect as Job Outlook and Salary

The Bureau of Labor/Statistics tends to gather all emergency room and trauma examiners in the same category of Emergency Technicians; this includes the SANE nurse and Forensic Examiner. Their job future looks significantly favorable, as many emergency rooms are suffering from overcrowding; these facilities, as well as rape crisis centers, are constantly hiring specialized staff to deal with specific traumas, including those of sexual abuse. This need may push the job growth rate far beyond the projected 9 percent for 2008-2018.

At start, the SANE nurse can expect between $11.13 to 18.28 per hour; however, the experienced SANE nurse (especially with the advanced degree training) can command an hourly wage of between $26 and $100 at her highest level of expertise. The average yearly salary is around $70,000.

The job is a challenging juggle of technique, skill, tact and caring, but SANE nurse trainingwill be immensely rewarding for the right individual.

Registered Nurse Training

Registered Nurse Job Description & Scope of Practice
The Registered Nurse, or RN, is the first step to moving anyone in the nursing profession to any specialty, whether it is trauma and emergency work, labor and delivery/gynecology, psychiatric and psychological treatment, post-operative care units, or community health.

The RN possesses a bachelor’s degree; associate degrees are useful for assistive positions in the nursing field, but genuine nursing requires a BS in Nursing to be competitive.

RNs do not have to remain in hospital settings.  They can easily function as school nurses, Army nurses, veterinary nurses, trauma and crisis center nurses, and a number of other specialties.

How to Become a Registered Nurse – RN Training

It is best to begin as early as high school, excelling in the sciences (biology and chemistry) and mathematics.   We say “excel,” because if you are not naturally gifted in those areas, nursing is probably not for you.

In college, you will want to move into a Bachelors of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, where you will receive additional training in medical ethics, patient care, and a number of specialties.   If you complete a Bachelor’s degree in another field, you can move into an accelerated BSN program that will complete your nursing training in as few as four years.

Once in a BSN program, your class work will be far more advanced, involving seminars in anatomy, advanced chemistry, psychology and behavioral sciences, physiology, microbiology and even nutrition.

An even more salient choice beyond the BSN is an MSN program, to achieve a Master’s level in Nursing, a degree which will allow you to be even more competitive.

There are four advanced fields where a Master’s degree is necessary for a registered Nurse:

-Clinical nurse specialist:  primary care assistance and office medical treatments

-Nurse anesthetist:  hospital centered and providing anesthesia and related services for surgical procedures.

-Nurse midwives:   gynecological and obstetric work in labor and newborn facilities, including pre- and post-natal care.

-Nurse practitioners:  hospital and office centered, and on track to an administrative position.

Individuals who complete Registered Nursing training should know that MSN training requires at least a two year commitment in study and clinical practice, as well as two years experience as an RN.

Besides from the BSN degree route, there are several other ways to become an RN. Whichever way you take to become a registered nurse, you will eventually need to take the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination – Registered Nurse) examination in order to actually be licensed to practice as an RN. The different degree programs allow you to be able to be eligible to sit for this licensure exam.

Other paths to become an RN include:

– Going to college (usually community college or vocational school) and attend an Associate’s Degree in nursing program to earn an Associates in Applied science Degree in Nursing or another equivalent associates degree.

– Attend an entry level masters degree program in nursing.

– Complete a nursing diploma program.

– become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or licensed vocational nurse (LVN) and then take a bridge program, LPN to RN/ LVN to RN, to become an RN.

Clinical experience, the Must that Makes the Difference to a Registered Nurse

Clinical experience, the leveler of the nursing field, must equal 1,000 hours for entrance into BSN and MSN training, and should ideally be 4,000 hours or more to be competitive in the labor field;  this experience can be obtained in a number of settings, although it is obviously a requirement that will take a nursing student years to complete.

Supervised experience can be obtained in seminars and preparatory classes, and the settings can include surgical centers, maternity wings, psychiatric offices or even pediatric departments.   One can also obtain clinical experience in public health facilities, in home health companies, in ambulatory work places and in nursing care clinics.

Once you have obtained the necessary classes and required number of hours, and are well along in a BSN or MSN program, you can sit for the Registered Nursing examination for your state, an exam called the NCLEX-RN.  Numerous programs can assist you while you are training to pass this exam; these programs can be on site at the clinic or facility where you gain experience and can also be found online.

Once you have obtained RN certification, you can begin to prepare for a specialty nursing position.  Be aware that you should, by the time your specialized training is completed, also have finished your 4,000 hour requirement.   You want as much of an edge on other candidates as possible.

Job Outlook and Salary for the Registered Nurse

The Registered Nurse has a “good” and “favorable” job outlook,according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the market growing “about as fast as the average” for nursing.  Its growth is projected as high as 26% between the years of 2013 and 2018, and it carries a median starting salary of approximately $60,000.

One reason the BLS believes this figure will inflate is because of overcrowding in hospitals and emergency rooms, necessitating more staff to take up the slack.

The RN is a good deal of work and preparation, but Registered Nurse Training is an excellent way to open many different doors of employment in the medical profession. 

Nursing Education Loan Repayment Program

What about the Nursing Education Loan Repayment Program?
When you entered your advanced nursing program—in fact, when you entered any  form of higher education—chances are you came into a world that costs a lot more to live in than you have readily available.

After all, nursing programs for a simple Associate’s degree in Nursing (ADN/ASN) usually cost between $10,000 and $20,000; double that, at the very least, for each year you were studying to be a Registered Nurse (RN) through a Bachelors of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program, Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program or any of the administrative degrees that are out there (that would mean adding on 5 to 6 years, from $50,000 to $120,000).

Well, the Nursing Education Loan Repayment Program is ready to help you out.  And they’re not just doing this out of the goodness of their heart.

Why Is the Program Willing to Help Me? 

The Nursing Education Loan Repayment Program was begun to help recruiting, and holding on to, good qualify professional RNs who were giving health care and assistance to populations in rural and urban areas where poverty, crime or low socio-economic outlook forced a nursing shortage.

To keep nurses in the hospitals and medical facilities that really needed them there, the NELRP actually assists with the tuition and supplies bills to the fledgling nurse who may not much wherewithal to meet her own payments.

How do I qualify for the Program? 

You have to be a United States citizen and resident.  You have to have, or be working towards, a licensure, certification or the specific qualifications for a nursing position, as a nurse, as an anesthetist or in any of the specialties available to the RN in training.   You also must be employed in some capacity as a professional in health services, and of course you must have debt incurred as a result of student loans.

What Kind of Loan Is It?

It isn’t really a loan per se; it’s a sort of “payment in faith” to keep you afloat financially while you work as a professional in some facility somewhere where the need is great; it assumes you’ve attained some expertise as a novice in the nursing program, and you are now using those skills.

It’s actually a program that pays benefits to its subscribers, and it makes the good-faith assumption that you will take the opportunity, and the degree it produces, to not only become a good nurse but also to stay in the low socio-economic area where you are needed.

In a way it’s what old time businessmen used to call “salt money,” cash paid in earnest on the expectation that the lender, and the community, benefits from the individual who was given a hand up.

How Does the Nursing Education Loan Repayment Program Work? 

If you’ve been working in a health facility of some kind for two years (and their application process tells you how to confirm this via supervisor reports), the Nursing Education Loan Repayment Program will pay (or in a sense reimburse) sixty percent of your balance in loans, or at least the percentage of that amount that qualifies under the program.

In other words, once you apply, the program decides what loan amount to award you (be a good enough nurse and it might be the whole ball of cash, at least on paper), and then pays a percentage of that amount for your nursing service.  Sound like a good deal?

It gets even better.  For three years of nursing work, the Program will reimburse a whopping 85 percent of your total amount.   It really doesn’t get much better than that.

If you want to move to another facility, but are still under contract to the loan, you should wait until you have completed two years of service at the facility that was designated for you, then re-apply for an addendum/amendment to the loan; at that point , the NELRP may decide to award you another 25 percent of your loan.

Where do I apply?

The applications are available from the Diversity and Basic Nurse Education Branch in Rockville, Maryland (MD) or online.

So apply for the Nursing Education Loan Repayment Program. It might make your financial debt repayment management a great deal smoother. 

Nursing Degrees in Texas

Since the state of Texas (TX) has long since been one of the largest states in the union, it stands to reason that it would need a larger number of nurses to care for the population. Nursing schools offering degree programs in Texas have built their qualifications around serving patients and their families with only the best care. Several nursing degrees are available, which allows nurses to find a career that suits them best while patients receive high quality healthcare. The level of nursing degree depends on how long the courses take. Some degrees require previous degrees or certification before they can be pursued.

Associate Degree Nursing (ADN/ASN) Programs

Some nursing programs will allow you to get an associate’s degree in nursing to help you start your career. These programs are often offered by community colleges or vocational schools. With the basic associate’s degree, you can decide whether to remain at your current nursing level or further your education to get a higher degree.

A licensed vocational nurse (LVN) is referred to as a Licensed Practical Nurse, or LPN, in some other states. This entry-level degree requires a year or less of education and training. The degree program involves both classroom lessons and supervised clinical practice. After graduating from the program, students must pass a certification exam. Once certified, an LVN provides patient care while under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician. LVNs make up a large portion of the nurses in Texas, and they are essential to the healthcare industry. While it is a very basic degree, a Texas nursing degree as an LVN opens the door for furthering education down the road.

A registered nurse (RN) is required to have an Associate’s Degree, which usually takes two years. An RN has a bit more to choose from in terms of job opportunities and diversity of workplaces. Standard job descriptions include managing LVNs, creating care plans for patients and providing emotional support for patients. Some RNs, however, do more work behind the scenes rather than interacting with patients. While an RN degree opens more doors than an LVN degree, RNs can still extend their education and career opportunities by completing a higher level degree program. The Associate Degree of Nursing program at NorthCentralTexasCollege provides students with the two-year education required to learn the necessary information to pass the National Council Licensure Examination.

Graduate Degrees

Graduate nursing degrees allow students to broaden their career horizons. The extended education offers nurses the opportunity to become specialists in their field. Many universities in Texas, including University of Texas, Texas Women’s University and Texas A&M have certified nursing programs that produce some of the best nurses in the state.

A nurse practitioner, or NP, is an RN that has received either a master’s (Masters of Science in Nursing -MSN) or a doctoral degree (PhD or Doctor of Nursing Practice – DNP) in an area of specialization, such as pediatrics or women’s health. If the RN has only received her associate’s degree, she must get a bachelor’s degree either before or during her graduate work. NPs must also pass a national board certification exam in their area of specialty in order to become licensed in addition to the state board test. An NP has the ability to diagnose illnesses and prescribe medication when cases are not severe. Doctors frequently have an NP on staff to help manage some of the less serious illnesses during busy hours.

A clinical nurse specialist (CNP) is another popular graduate degree that helps improve the quality of healthcare services. A CNP focuses on improving the facility, nursing practices and patient care. A CNP also helps build better relationships between members of the nursing staff as well as between the nurses and the patients. This specialty requires training with a holistic approach, and the University of Texas is known for its high quality of education in this area.

Transition Programs

Several nursing degrees in Texas require a graduate degree, but that doesn’t mean that an LVN or RN must spend several years in school. Transitional degrees are available to help those with minimal certification further their education. Programs help LVNs transition to the roles of RNs, and RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs bridge the next gap and allow nurses to choose a specialization. RN to Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree programs help RNs to move even farther up the education ladder.

With all of the Texas nursing degrees that are available, it is no wonder that Texas is one of the leaders of the country’s healthcare system. The options seem limitless, and nurses almost always have a chance to further their careers in Texas.

Nursing Degrees in Georgia

Education Requirements for Nursing Degrees in Georgia
The process for obtaining nursing degrees in Georgia is very similar to the process in other states. Nurses in Georgia (GA) state receive their licenses through the Georgia Board of Nursing. This is the entity that oversees the application process and makes sure that all nurses in Georgia have access to the information they need so they can provide the best patient care possible. The steps toward becoming a nurse in Georgia are not many; however, it is still a challenging undertaking.

The first step is to get your degree in nursing from one of the many accredited nursing schools in Georgia. The school you choose has to be approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing.

Types of Nursing Degrees in Georgia

There are many technical schools, colleges and universities that provide courses that fulfill the requirements for nursing. Before you commit to an institution, however, remember to be sure that the one you select is certified by the Georgia Board of Nursing and has achieved accreditation from the National League for Nursing Accrediting.

Associate Nursing Degrees (ADN) in Georgia

These programs are typically offered at Georgia technical colleges, but it can also be achieved at two-year colleges such as Georgia Perimeter College. This particular college mandates 35 general education hours in addition to 36 hours of nursing courses. Some of the other institutions in Georgia that offer associate nursing degrees are Augusta State University, Middle Georgia College and Athens Technical College.

Bachelor of Science Nursing (BSN) Degrees in Georgia

A number of schools in Georgia offer Bachelor of Science Degrees in Nursing, which is similar to other kinds of Bachelor Degrees. Students must complete two years of general education classes, which will include nursing course prerequisites. After they complete the general education courses, they must focus their remaining two years on nursing. One of the institutions in Georgia that offers Bachelor of Science Nursing Degrees is Georgia South Western State University. Students with Bachelor Degrees typically land better jobs than do students with Associate Nursing Degrees.

Masters in Nursing Degrees (MSN) in Georgia

Nurses who already hold a Bachelor of Science Nursing Degree can choose to further their education by obtaining a Master Nursing Degree. Master Degrees come in several different varieties. Students can choose from the Nurse Practitioner Program, the Nursing Education Leadership Program or the Health Policy Track at the School of Nursing at Kennesaw State University.

Doctorate Nursing Degrees in Georgia

A Doctorate in Nursing (DNP or PhD) is the highest degree available in the field of nursing. In addition to Kennesaw State, Emory University offers a Doctoral Nursing Degree program. The National Research Council rated Emory University programs as among the nation’s best in 2010.

What to do After You Get Your Degree

After you are awarded your degree in nursing from a Georgia nursing school, you must take the National Council Licensure Examination or the NCLEX for either registered nurses or for practical nurses, depending on which degree you received. You must also remember to register with the testing center and use your Georgia nursing school code when you apply.

Then, you need to fill out the license application and submit it to the Secretary of State. You can download the application online from the Secretary of State’s website. Next, you must have your background checked and your fingerprints taken. The state of Georgia uses Cogent Systems to perform professional background checks and you must get your fingerprints taken in person from one of the approved sites that are also listed on the Secretary of State’s website.

Finally, you must turn your application in to the Georgia Board of Nursing. You will be required to pay a fee to finalize your application. Once you receive your license, you will be able to apply for jobs with any company looking for a registered nurse or a practical nurse, again depending on which degree you received.

Begin Your Journey Now

Now that you know which nursing program matches your current level of education, you can take steps toward achieving your goal of becoming a nurse. Contact one of the above-mentioned schools and get started right away.

Pediatric Nurse Education

Pediatric nurses help children in a variety of settings. Pediatric nursing degrees allow nurses to work in the children’s ward of hospitals, pediatric clinics or other healthcare facilities. While working with children can be entertaining, it can also be highly stressful. The patients are often frightened of doctors and nurses and may not cooperate. It can also be very upsetting to see children suffering. However, the rewards of the profession outweigh the negatives for many pediatric nurses.

There are a couple of ways to obtain a pediatric nursing education. Hospitals or clinics may have their own training requirements for pediatric nurses. Many pediatric nurses begin as Licensed Practicing Nurses, or LPNs, and continue their education to become certified pediatric nurses.

Licensed Practicing Nurse

An LPN degree requires the least amount of time to obtain the certification. Most LPN programs are a yearlong or less. The flip side is that LPNs do not have as many opportunities or liberties that other nurses may have. LPNs may administer certain medications, monitor vitals and perform other routine services under the supervision of a physician or RN. An LPN must return to school to get a bachelor’s degree or a graduate degree to work in a healthcare setting.

Associates Degree in Nursing

An Associate Degree in Nursing, or ADN, is a two-year nursing degree program that will introduce new students to the nursing field. Once this degree is obtained, students can then progress to class work that will earn them a bachelors, masters or doctoral degree. The benefit of an ADN over a registered nurse degree is that it allows you to earn your degree quickly so that you can go straight into the workforce. You can then continue working as you pursue your next level of certification.

Registered Nurse

A registered nurse (RN) must complete a certified program, which usually takes at least two years. A registered nurse in pediatrics has some flexibility as to what tasks may be done. The RN may work closely with children to determine the cause of illness and heal injuries. A pediatric RN may also focus on reports and healthcare issues that do not involve patients directly. An RN can increase the number of job opportunities available by obtaining pediatric nursing degrees.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

A Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) degree will provide more opportunities in the workforce. In fact, many facilities now prefer their nurses to have at least this level of education. This degree takes approximately four years to obtain. However, LPNs and RNs can earn the degree through transitional programs that acknowledge previous coursework required for their current certification.

Nurse Practitioner

A nurse practitioner (NP) can be very helpful when working with children. A pediatric NP is a registered nurse that has received a graduate degree with a specialization in pediatrics. This extensive education regarding the care of children allows them to diagnose and treat many illnesses. An NP is able to prescribe most medications and can eliminate the need to wait for a doctor to be available for an appointment.

Obtaining a Nursing Degree in Pediatrics

Before you decide which path to take, carefully consider which aspects of pediatric nursing you want to be a part of. If you want to simply help monitor sick or injured children, an LPN degree may be enough to satisfy you. If you want to have more control without spending a long time in school, look into becoming an RN. If you want to have a dominant role in nursing children back to health, take the steps to become a nurse practitioner. After you have obtained your initial certification, you may have the option of taking your education courses online. This will allow you to work while simultaneously earning your next degree. You can also look into transitional or bridge programs that will prevent you from retaking courses that you had for your initial degree.

Pediatric nursing degrees open many doors for career opportunities, and there are several ways to go about getting certified as a pediatric nurse. Allow your inner child to come out and play as you help nurse infants, children and adolescents back to health.

Nursing Degrees in Arizona

Nurses are in high demand all over the world and Arizona (AZ) is no different.  Currently, there is a nursing shortage which makes it even more important to get your nursing degree if this is your occupational goal.

Where do I go to get a Nursing Degree in Arizona?

There are plenty of nursing schools and online universities available for those who wish to get nursing degrees in Arizona.

• Grand Canyon University: This University offers night classes, online classes, hands-on training and much more.  Financial aid is available for those qualified.
• University of Phoenix:  Although many associate this university with online degrees, it is an excellent college for nursing programs.  They have state of the art hands-on training equipment and personnel, flexible hours to meet most everyone’s needs and a nursing program geared towards helping you achieve your degree in no time with quality training and personalized training and guidance.
• University of Arizona college of Nursing: Located in Tuscon, they are ranked among the top 6% of graduate nursing schools in the United States. If you have a high school diploma, you can apply for their Bachelor of Science in Nursing Pathway so as to earn a BSN Degree course. If you have a bachelors degree or something higher but not in any nursing field, then consider their Master’s Entry to the Profession of Nursing (MEPN) Pathway so as to be awarded a Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN). For their doctoral programs, they offer the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) with a major in nursing science. And the Dual DNP/PhD.

These are just a few choices available to receive your nursing degree in Arizona (AZ).  There are plenty of opportunities and financial assistance to those serious about becoming a nurse.

Where do I begin to earn a nursing degree in Arizona?

Do you believe you have what it takes to be a nurse? Have you always wanted to help others?  Do you know what specialty you would like to have?  The reality of becoming an RN requires much thought.  Ask yourself a lot of questions to uncover the real drive you have to become a nurse.  A nursing career has many upsides and also downsides, consider both before you make a final decision.

Pro’s

• Above average salary
• Overtime opportunities
• Giving compassion and aid to those in need
• Job flexibility in regards to relocation
• Plenty of room for advancement
• Short schooling programs
• Variety of jobs within the nursing industry

Cons

• Cost of education
• Sometimes long hours
• Being exposed to sick and injured people regularly
• Short staffed facilities means more work for those employed
• Not being able to heal or help some people

What Program is Best for Me?

First you will need to consider which degree in nursing you are most interested in.  A two year LPN degree will most quickly get you a degree and start you working, but it may inhibit your future advancement.  What are your goals for the future as a nurse?  Don’t take shortcuts when earning your degree.  There is a wide variety of nursing programs that offer several options for schooling, that will fit into the times and places and degrees that will suit you best.  Start with your list of needs regarding the length of schooling you hope for, the amount of money you hope to spend, the location of classes.  Then you will be armed with the information you need to start searching for the best program to obtain a nursing degree in Arizona.

Can I receive financial aid to gain my nursing degree in Arizona?

Yes. Financial aid is available in every nursing program.  The American Association of College of Nurses has resources to help students apply for and receive financial aid.  Both for current registered nurses, looking to advance their degrees and for new students acquiring their first degree.  Financial aid and scholarship are available to students of all income levels.  The school you choose will also have many financial aid options to assist you on your journey to become an RN. The demand to increase nursing college enrollment has caused many organizations to offer assistance to those wanting to enter a specialized program that will benefit from an increase in RN’s.

What is a Nursing Shortage?

As baby boomers are aging the current nursing shortage has intensified.  The need for healthcare has increased and nursing programs are struggling to fill the demand to supply nursing degrees in Arizona to equal the amount of need for qualified nursing positions available.  The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) is working overtime to create awareness of the shortage and find solutions to the growing problem.  Nurses are the largest portion of the healthcare workforce, recruiting and benefits are at an all-time high, and are projected to become even more in demand.

Right now is a great time to check into the nursing programs available in Arizona; not only is there a great need for nurses to fill hospitals, doctors’ offices and clinics, but it is also a great time to get your degree and get your career going in a rewarding field that pays not just in financial gain, but in emotional gain as well.

Nurse Leadership Training

The positions of Nurse Leader (NL) and Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) are relatively new, and were developed to move experienced Registered Nurses into leadership positions.  It was recognized early on that, once they are bedside or at the operating table, the opportunity for realizing leadership potential for most Registered Nurses was gone, as the role of nurse is necessarily a subservient one.  These positions fill that gap; a NL is an RN who is a leader in management and finances.

Nurse Leadership Training in Universities

Most universities with accredited nursing programs now offer advanced coursework in Clinical Nurse Leadership training, designed to train the Registered Nurse (RN) to serve both as clinical resource for her facility and health care team facilitator, as well overseer for caregivers.   The advanced coursework includes the following paradigms:

-Health policies, their application and financing

-Clinical outcomes and how to manage and coordinate them

-Cost effective management of the medical facility’s environment

-Leadership in facilitating and coordinating a nursing team.

-The health care delivery system and how to augment/improve it at your site

-Evidence-based nursing and how to integrate its practices into the medical routine

The training courses involve situational ethics and management of outcomes, introducing the new NL to the most common situational problems she will face in her career as a leader and problem solver.   The university training for a NL is approximately 2 to 3 years, and culminates with the examination for, and achievement of, the Nurse Leader certification (CNL certificate) as recognized by the CNC (Commission on Nurse Certification).

What are some Online Nurse Leadership Training Programs?

Many Nurse Leadership Training Programs are found online, such as:

• Leadership and Stewardship in the Health Professions, a program whose emphasis is upon the management paradigms and working as a leader with a large staff, available from Online School NLTP.  There is also Economics of Healthcare Management and Policy, a separate training that emphasizes economics.
• NurseLEAD invites participants practice specific leadership skills learned online in the workplace.  Available from LeadingAge/AAHSA.
• The Minority Nurse Leadership Institute, an online training specifically to nurses in minorities, available from the Rutgers nursing school website; in addition to management and financial training, it also equips nurses of color to override the possible barriers they may encounter to employment as a leader or in the workplace once they are hired.

After Training, What Are The Typical Nurse Leadership Expectations?

As one might expect, the NL position is highly competitive, and as with many such positions, it variable, and full-time (12 hour), shifts.  But expectations for the trained NL go beyond this, specifically in financial and in management paradigms.

The NL in a medical facility is expected to serve as a care delivery leader, designing and coordinating care programs for individual patients, with assessment and evaluation of her own program included in the workday.  The NL also predicts the needs for patient care and plans for its modification based on acuity/care trends, the educational needs of her staff and, naturally, the patient outcomes.

Most hospitals, in addition to leadership of a staff, are looking for cost effective candidates who can manage budgeting and evidentiary changes in the medical routine (that is, changes that evidence demonstrates as necessary).  As well, most employers are seeking individuals who show efficient resource utilization.

Nurse Leadership Job Outlook and Salary

The job outlook for Nurse Leader and Clinical Nurse Leader is referenced through the Bureau of Labor/Statistic as identical to that of a Registered Nurse (a 9% to 26% projected growth from 2013 to 2018).  All the salary earnings noted are lower than those of other leadership positions in nursing, such as NP (nurse practitioner) or CNS (Clinical Nurse Specialist); however, this is probably due to the fact that the new position does not allow for figures based on seniority (the data is from new CNLs with little advancement).  The listed average national salary for a Nurse Leader is $82,000.

If you are an experience RN, Nurse Leader Training might just be the step up you need to a better and more fulfilling leadership position, one that recognizes your potential and plays to your strengths. 

Online Nursing Degree Success Strategies

Why Get A Nursing Degree Online?
The great thing about online classes is you can do them anytime, anywhere, and there’s never a commute or parking problem.  The flexibility, access, and convenience are unmatched, which is why record numbers of nursing students are choosing an online experience (at least in their classroom studies) than a more traditional form of nursing schooling.

But there are several steps you should follow in any online endeavor to ensure that you will be a success and that your degree will translate into a well-paying job and a good placement.

What’s the First Step?

The first step is to commit.

This commitment means to look over both the course outline and the study requirements, understand them thoroughly, and then make sure you inflate their time requirements.  If the syllabus says the project, reading, or study mode will take ten hours, set aside fifteen; after all, in dealing with the internet, you are primarily going to be learning visually, and that method, for some, may take some getting used to.

More importantly, make sure that the entire timeline of the course is something you can commit to.  If you reason out that the studying, done up to speed and in a timely manner, will take you 30 hours a week that you do not have, you will either need to abandon the course or free up more time somewhere.

Beyond the time commitment, however, be sure the mental and emotional commitment is there also.  You’re making a big change in your life; make sure you’re married to it.

Commit as well to the assessment schedule.  The assessments are the benchmarks to let the instructor know how well you are doing in completing the course, and they must be as well-reasoned, correct, and as timely as you can make them.  A late test, missing answers, or a plethora of misinformation proclaims your disinterest, and lack of study, in the course.  And be sensible about the study committee.   Do you have a ten-question quiz?  Take a few study hours.  A two hundred question quiz?  Take a study week.

The Second Step

This brings us to the second step, to plan.  Plan regular hours every week to study; plan regular sessions with friends in the course, either in person or in online conferences, to group study.  And for heaven’s sake, do this planning, and the studying, when you’re mentally alert, not at midnight on Saturday just after the club.

You should also plan a place to study, a little patch of privacy where you know where everything is, and study comes easily to you.  And if family, the boyfriend, buddies, or the landlord keep dropping by, find a bookstore, library, or quiet coffee shop, and maybe add a latte to your study regime.  There’s more than one kind of commitment.

The Third Step

The third step is to participate.  Ask questions when the class is meeting; volunteer information if you know something; make a class-wide query if you don’t.  Ask to join one of the study chat rooms (there’s bound to be at least three or more of these in the class, and one of them at least should welcome you), and participate there.  One of the great things about online chat is that people are sometimes much more relaxed, and freer with their knowledge and expertise than they are in person.

This also helps you keep focus.  If you’re involved with a particular online group, and you meet regularly Tuesday and Thursday nights to study JUST for the RN, that’s all to the good—it will keep you from spending those evenings finding fun electives or wild online stuff that just might distract you from your studies.  If you’re expected somewhere to study online, you’ll be there, not taking an online ceramics class or leveling up on World of Warcraft.

Achieve Test Prep helps LPNs earn their ADN or BSN degree online in up to 1/2 the time and cost of traditional programs. With No Waiting List to get started, Free Books, and Low-Cost financing options available nationwide except in parts of California, Alabama, and Kansas. The LIVE instructor led test-out program allows one to learn at an accelerated pace and earn college credit-by-examination which then is eligible to be transferred to an ACEN accredited nursing school or 100’s of universities nationwide. Learn More

A Final Warning

Your internet and your computer will be your world for hours at a time.  For heaven’s sake, keep all your classroom materials on a zip drive, just in case the worst should happen and your computer crashes before the big test.

And maybe you can take a few minutes every so often to leave the computer and go outside.  We hear the graphics are amazing out there.

Now that you know the online nursing degree success strategies, you therefore can rely more on yourself than on luck.

Nurse Aide Training in Cincinnati

What does a State Tested Nurse Assistant (also known as Nurse Aide, Home Health Aide, Certified Nurse Assistant) Do?
The certified nurse aide is a skilled observer who attends to the physical needs of the hospitalized patient.

The aide assists the nurse with patient care in the following ways:

–        Make the bed as needed, at least daily, and assist the patient with bath needs

–        Assist the patient with mobility and toileting needs

–        Assist the patient with eating

–        Transporting the patient throughout the hospital

–        Monitoring pulse, blood pressure and temperatures, and respiration of the patient, sometimes on an hourly basis

–        According to the facility, dispensing medications and assisting with bandages and wound care

–        Measure input and output of the patient, including all liquids and solids

Education Requirements for the State Tested Nursing Assistant

Ohio doesn’t have nurse aides; they have State Tested Nursing Assistants.  To qualify for the certification, you have to complete a 75-hour nurse aide training course over a four-week period of time.  Each class meets daily from 8 a.m. to noon and includes classroom instruction and on-the-job training with supervision.

After completion of the classes, the State Testing is offered by D & S Diversified Technologies.  Their fees change each year but the current costs are $24 for the written portion, $34 for the oral portion, and $76 for the skills test.  This test must be completed and passed within 24 months of completing the coursework.  A current CPR certificate is also required to be employed.

In some states, like Tennessee, you may challenge the STNA testing without the coursework if you have already worked as a nursing assistant for more than 24 months or have completed one year of nursing school.

If you have worked as a medic in the armed forces, you can provide your DD-214 and challenge the education requirements.  The state will usually let you take the test without the coursework.

Salary for a Nurse Aide In Cincinnati

Starting salary in Ohio for an STNA is $11.45 per hour, which is approximately $32,000 per year.  Overtime and holiday pay will be extra and many opportunities will be given to work double shifts.  Home health aides make $2.25 per hour more and there is usually a shift differential offered for working overnights.

Where Can I Work as a Nurse Aide In Cincinnati?

There is a shortage of nurses in the United States so the field for STNA or nurse aides is also wide open.  Hospitals in Cincinnati that are hiring nurse aides include Mercy Health, St. Elizabeth Healthcare, Good Samaritan Medical Center, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, Tri-Health, and University Hospital.  Nursing homes that employ STNAs include Beechwood Homes, Twin Towers, Hyde Park Health Center, Oak Pavilion Nursing Home, Anderson Nursing Home, and Little Sisters of the Poor facilities. Any duty that can be accomplished by the STNA is one less nurse that must be employed for the more onerous tasks.

What Does the Training Cost for a Nurse Aide in Cincinnati?

Costs for the schools vary from region to region, but most average $800 to $1,000 for the course.  The State Testing will be an additional fee.  Some of the schools offer a low payment program that you pay $100 down and $100-200 each week until the course is completed.  Cincinnati Home Care charges $500, books and uniforms may cost extra.  Cincinnati State offers all-inclusive training for $918.  The Health Care Management Group offers free training, but there is a waiting list and costs for books, uniforms, and certification.

Can I Move Up In the Hospital?

Although a hospital has many jobs, the STNA is a specialized position that does not transfer to other positions.   After you have been employed at the hospital for their specified period of time you can transfer into other parallel positions, if you have the skills requested.  The knowledge you have received as an STNA will be helpful when training in other areas, like stocking surgical supplies or assisting in surgery by holding vital organs.

If you wish to have more technical nursing duties that pay a larger wage, you will need to become a licensed practical nurse or a licensed vocational nurse.  This requires additional classroom instruction and certification.

Some hospitals will pay the fees for the practical nurse schooling if you have a good work record and employment status.  Likewise, if you wish to move from a licensed practical nurse into a registered nurse position it will require a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, another set of classes, and state examinations.  Your employer will likely reimburse you for these costs if you have already been employed as an STNA.

Hottest Masters in Nursing Jobs

While 14 million Americans are out of work, nurses enjoy great job security. In fact, the U.S. Department of Labor predicts a need for more than one million new and replacement Registered Nurses by 2020, and online master’s degree programs in nursing are an excellent choice for students. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) calls this a “health care crisis,” and the agency is working with schools, policymakers, and the media to bring attention to the problem. While Registered Nurses report great job fulfillment, their counterparts with Master’s degrees report even greater job satisfaction.

They can also make up to twice the average Registered Nurse (RN) salary.

Thinking about kicking your career up a notch by getting a Masters’s degree in nursing? With the option of online degrees, you do not have to go to a traditional brick-and-mortar school. There are 63 online schools nationwide that offer Masters degrees in nursing; students range from the new RN seeking expansion to the experienced nurse wanting to get into management, consulting, or education positions. You are almost guaranteed to find work when you finish, as the Institute of Medicine’s “Future of Nursing” report calls for doubling the population of nurses with graduate degrees. Best of all, you choose the pace at which you learn: some accelerated nursing master’s programs will get that Masters’s degree in nursing in your hands in as little as a year.

Here, a look at some of the hottest job choices for nurses with Master’s degrees: Nursing Leadership and Management, Nursing Education, and Nurse Practitioner.

Jobs That “Miraculously Open Up” in Nursing

–        Nursing Leadership and Management:

Those who choose a Master’s degree in Nursing Leadership and Management have jobs such as staff developer or health administrator in schools, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. They may be nursing managers, planning and implementing policies and procedures for a unit. Many maintain nursing staff by hiring and training. They may still provide patient care, and they are responsible for assessing and evaluating patients. According to salary.com, those with a Master’s degree in Nursing Management make between $71,000 and $110,000. By way of comparison, the average salary of an RN is $57,200. Jobs are plentiful: Online Nursing Degrees writes that “Nursing Leadership and Management jobs have miraculously opened up in almost every area of health care and at every level.”

–        Nursing Education:

One of the careers for people with a Master’s degree in Nursing Education is to provide visionary education for future nurses. They inspire, motivate and mentor. They implement research-based “best practices” in the classroom while teaching such things as policy, organization, role development, and advanced nursing practices. Nursing Education majors may also be involved with patient care.

–        Nurse Practitioners

There are many career paths open for the Nurse Practitioner. In addition to the regular nurses’ training, Nurse Practitioners choose “specialties” for themselves, in areas such as pediatric, adult, geriatric, and mental health. The education required to enter the field depends on the specialty, but a Master’s degree is the minimum requirement. Nurse practitioners also must pass a stringent Board Certification Exam. This career opened up in the 1960s,in response to a shortage of doctors. Today, they work independently and collaboratively on the healthcare team. They may also engage in patient advocacy activities.

Nursing: The Opportunity of a Lifetime

Expanding your nursing career will almost certainly bring greater job satisfaction and more money. Today, with online Master’s degrees in nursing, you can finish that advanced degree in as little as a year. So give yourself the gifts of job fulfillment and more money: look into online Master’s degree programs in nursing today.

Nursing Degrees in PA

Living in Pennsylvania provides aspiring nurses with many different options in terms of where to go to school and what program to follow to obtain nursing degrees in PA. There are certificate programs, degree programs and graduate programs available in nursing from numerous universities and colleges. In addition, if you are already a nurse, Pennsylvania schools offer many continuing education classes that are required by all states to keep your license current.

General Nursing Degree Programs

There are four basic nursing degree programs that can be obtained by students. The first is a 2-year nursing degree, which is also called an associates’ degree. Next is a four-year degree, which is also a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing (BSN). The Master’s degree in nursing (MSN) requires that the student already have a Bachelor’s degree and the Doctorate degree in nursing (DNP/PhD) requires that the student have both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree. To receive a Doctorate, approximately eight years of schooling are required.

Nursing Degrees in PA

As previously mentioned, there are many schools in Pennsylvania that have excellent nursing programs. Here is a short list of the top degree programs in the state.

University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing

A couple of years ago, the US News & World Report ranked the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing as the 7^th best in the United States. It offers a bachelor of science in nursing, a master of science in nursing and a doctorate in nursing. Also available are a master’s degree in nurse anesthesia and a doctorate degree in nursing practice in anesthesia.

Villanova University College of Nursing

Located west of Philadelphia, Villanova University’s College of Nursing is just one of three programs in the United States that has been designated as a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing. Established in 1953, the College of Nursing offers programs for bachelor degrees, master degrees and doctoral degrees.

University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing

This university provides top-notch simulation labs and classrooms that are equipped with the most advanced hospital-based electronic medical records system. Students perform their clinical labs at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Students can achieve bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees and doctorate degrees from the University of Pennsylvania. In addition, the school also offers accelerated programs for students who already have a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field. There is also a joint program where students can work toward their bachelor’s and master’s degree at the same time.

Drexel University College of Nursing and Health Professionals

This college is an offshoot of the Hahnemann Hospital Training School for Nurses that was founded in 1890. It provides courses and programs for Bachelor of Science nursing degrees in PA as well as accelerated career and co-op programs for students who already have bachelor’s degrees in other fields. Master’s and doctorate degrees are also available, as are nurse anesthesia and nurse practitioner programs.

Thomas Jefferson University School of Nursing

Thomas Jefferson University, located in Philadelphia, offers a Bachelor of Science degree program in nursing, as well as post-graduate programs in nursing, including masters and doctoral degrees. Founded in 1891, the school of nursing offers post-master’s certificates in many different fields such as nursing informatics, women’s health, advanced acute care and neonatal care. These certificates require a master’s degree but are not part of any coursework toward the attainment of a doctorate degree.

Which will you choose?

As you can see, you have many choices when it comes to nursing degrees in PA. Nearly every major school in the area offers at least bachelor’s programs; however, most of them also offer masters and doctorate programs. No matter where you are along the nursing education continuum, there is certainly a program that is right for you. The best way to get started is to request information from the schools that interest you and compare the features of each school to determine which one meets your needs the best. From that point, all you need to do is fill out an application, send it in, and await your acceptance. You can fulfill your dream of becoming a nurse in Pennsylvania. Nursing degrees in PA are out there waiting for you. Take your first step today.

Benefits of Continuing Nursing Education

Just as you had continual education to obtain a position as a Registered Nurse, so you must continue your education as a nurse.  The nursing continuing education requirements vary from state to state. On average, most states require twenty to thirty hours of continuing education for a nurse in a Registered Nurse (RN) position, currently employed or working at least part-time in the nursing field.  This renewal is usually required every one to two years, depending upon the state in which you are employed.

The variance is great between states. For example, Louisiana bases CE (continuing education) requirements upon employment. If you are employed full time, you must complete five hours of education (called “contact hours”) per year; if you are part time, it extends to 10 hours, and if you work only 160 hours or less per year (effectively unemployed for most of the time, at least as a nurse), you must have 15 contact hours.

Contrast that with states such as Illinois, which requires 20 hours every two years regardless of employment, or Maryland, which demands “approved refresher courses” each year, or Oklahoma, which has no CE requirement whatsoever.

With so much variety, you may be tempted, if you are “shopping for a state,” so to speak, to pick one such as Oklahoma, thinking to yourself that you can lean back and bask in the shade of an RN certification that is, for all intents and purposes, permanent.

We really don’t advise that, nor do we adhere to the idea that you should only fulfill minimum requirements of per annum hours of contact and training.

And we’d like to tell you why.

Extended Nursing Continuing Education, and Why It’s a Good Idea

You have encountered minimalists all your life: the people who do the required work and absolutely no more, the ones who take the extended lunches, ask you to fill out the form and call back tomorrow, and generally make up the mediocrity squad at their place of work. Well, nursing continuing education requirements don’t allow for minimalists.

We’d like to think, if you’re reading this article with an eye to being a better RN, you’re better than a minimalist.  So we have some reasons why you should continue your education as a nurse far beyond the requirements:

-It makes you more saleable.  There is nothing more attractive to a boss in a teeming job market than the individual who can show a lot of experience; it means you can easily and quickly fit into the routine, and you won’t cost the hospital a lot of money in training.

-It makes you more knowledgeable. Added expertise and learning benefits you, gives you an edge in care and responsibility and sets you apart from the ordinary RN.

-It literally gives you better patient empathy. Patients are fine with a good bedside manner, but they respond to a professional who knows what is going on.

Convinced? Good. Now, where do you get this continuing education?

Nursing Continuing Education and Where You Find It

Most professional settings, including hospitals, crisis centers and any other medical facilities will offer what some businesses call the “go-getter” wall.  You may have seen it; it’s the wall, bulletin board or announcement space that tells you about all those upcoming workshops, seminars, webinars and continuing professional meetings that will offer you exactly the kind of continuing education, new knowledge and cognitive dissonance you want to advance in your profession.

You’re bound to find something to make you more saleable, knowledgeable and empathetic.

Job Outlook for the Educated Nurse

If you doubt the efficacy of continuing education, here’s a nugget from the Bureau of Labor and Statistics: the average salary of an RN is $60,000, whereas the average salary of a Nurse Leader (someone who put in more time than you) is $85,000 and higher.  Could you use an extra $25,000 a year?

Nursing Continuing Education Requirements should not be painful; they’re a step to a better future as a better nurse.  

Men in Nursing

Male Nurse Stereotypes and Discrimination
Ben Stiller in the movie Meet the Parents encountered most of the stereotypes and discrimination cast at male nurses today.  He was regarded as a man trying to succeed in a woman’s profession, which made him, at least in his detractors’ eyes, unsuccessful.

He was a fictional character, but his dilemma is real; many sectors of society still regard male nursing as the wrong profession for a man.  Men have been nursing since the days of Christ (St. Bartholomew and St. John both tended the sick); Gallic warriors nursed their own wounded; African male slaves nursed troops in the Civil War.  Despite all this, 40 years ago, male nurses were usually prevented from examining a woman, or observing her delivering a baby.  Even today, most nursing classes still salt their terminology with female pronouns.

Make no mistake, the lingering stereotype is still there, despite the fact that over 5.4 percent of the two million RNs in the United States are male, and about 13% of the enrollees in nursing schools are men.  Minority men are equally frowned upon by some factions.  Education and changing hearts and minds seems to be the answer, and, like the gay population is discovering in today’s society and the African American population realized in the sixties, change in attitudes can be effected over time.

Meanwhile, sign up for that nursing program, gentlemen!  Here’s how:

How to Become a Male Nurse

Make sure you are admitted to a progressive nursing school that supports males in the profession.  Male faculty members and male students should be in evidence; admission personnel should be open about campus attitudes, especially in terms of clinical experiences in local hospitals.

If you do experience a problem, make staff aware of it immediately.

Be aware that women will continue to dominate the nursing profession, so make sure you professional, courteous and relatable to both genders.  And just hang in there, because there still a social jealousy about male nurses being specifically involved in female health (particularly in gynecology, obstetrics and pediatrics).

Finally remember, a patient who is sick or in pain just wants a nurse.  He or she doesn’t want a gender introduction, stereotype discussion or rant, just pain relief and treatment.  And if you win your patient over with your skills and bedside manner, score one for the men’s side in nursing.

Grants and Scholarships for Male Nursing Students

There are literally hundreds of online grants and scholarships available for nurses, and the applications and selection process are by law non-discriminatory and accepting of candidates of either gender.  Some examples include:

• Education Start offers nurses of either gender who are already enrolled in a nursing program $12,000 scholarships ($3,000 awarded quarterly) based on need and level of academic achievement.
• SGNA RN General Education Scholarship provides $2500 annually to full-time students who are working toward their RN license.
• Barry and Julia Smith Family Nurse Scholarships offer $1,000 annually to full-time students working toward a hospice or end of life career.

There is only one organization that offers scholarships specific to male applicants:

• The American Assembly for Men in Nursing offers the John R. Murray and the Jadah Marselis Moore scholarships, awarded for essays whose topics are specific to experiences in the nursing profession; this appears to be a possible way to take a discriminatory situation in your scholastic career and turn it into funding.

Other possible grant/scholarship resources include the National Coalition of Ethnic and Minority Nurse Associations, National Association of Hispanic Nurses and National Black Nurses Association.

Male Nurse Jobs and Salaries

The Bureau of Labor/Statistics indicates that RNs and Nursing specialties in either gender are growing quickly—a low ballpark figure of 9% job growth vs. a somewhat more balanced possibility, 20% and higher, for the years from 2013 to 2018.   Numerous websites throughout the internet, such as Hire.com and simplyhired.com list hundreds of male nurse jobs.

Finally, there is a piece of good news; it is possible male nurses are being paid more than females.  The average salary for a male RN is $65,000-70,000; for a female, it usually averages $60,000.

So, men, bear up under that stereotype, and realize that Men in Nursing have a place in the medical world!

LPN Refresher Courses

A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), the bedside helper, caregiver, patient assistant, and all-around hardworking nurse in training, is in a great position to move up.  You’ve achieved certification, and the hours and training, to compete for a higher level of nursing, one that pays more and has better benefits.  Maybe it was always your dream to be an RN, and now it’s within your grasp.

But it’s possible you achieved your certification a while back, stayed too long in one place, maybe even moved on to another career.  Or you want to be sure to keep your license current, since moving up to RN or beyond is your lifetime dream.

You’re in luck, because the perfect answer for someone wanting to hone their skills, advance in their profession, or return to nursing after a hiatus (and be hired, of course), is  LPN Refresher courses.

What are LPN Refresher Courses?

LPN refresher courses are offered at nursing facilities, community colleges, vocational schools and in online courses.  They are specifically for LPNs who want to reactivate their licensure, return to the nursing practice or update their knowledge and nursing skills.  In any case, it means a return to active nursing.

Why Should I Take Them?

There are several reasons why they are a good idea:

• You can update skills and knowledge from your original LPN program.
• You can learn new and innovative techniques and medical nursing paradigms
• You can plumb new technological procedures
• You can make yourself marketable again in the nursing profession.

We could go on, but the main point is that they will bring you back into nursing, and advance you to even better positions, salary and benefits.

How Do I Apply? 

Once you have decided on a suitable school for refresher courses (make very sure they are accredited), you will usually do little more than complete an application (online this takes only a few minutes), produce or other confirm the graduation certificate from your previous LPN training or nursing school, or a complete transcript of your classes in the nursing program, and a verification of the current status of your license (sometimes waived if you are returning to the profession after a long hiatus).

What Do LPN Refresher Courses Include? 

Most facilities offering this kind of training have three parts, or phases, to their refresher course offerings.

The first is coursework.  This is usually in the form of advanced theory, medical concepts, technologies, ethical situations, and specificities that the LPN may have an interest in, such as RN ethics, the operational theater, anatomy, physiology, or any of the other sciences, and coursework designed to get the LPN on track for a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) or even an MSN (Master of Science in Nursing); the latter is particularly good as a degree to make you competitive in the nursing field.  Be aware, though, that its coursework can stretch from four to six years in study and experience.

The second phase of the LPN refresher is usually the final exam for LPN renewal.  Most states require this before any further action is done to reactivate the LPN certificate, and if the candidate sits successfully, she will have answered between 150 and 250 multiple choice exam questions and (in some states) completed one to three short writings.

The final phase is clinical experience, the same kind of hands-on requirement that you first fulfilled (usually 250 to 500 hours, remember?).  In most refresher courses, this requirement is not as rigorous: usually between 100 and 200 hours are accepted for completion of the LPN Refresher process.

What are some LPN Refresher Courses?

Since the most convenient course for LPN refreshers is the online one, we mention three of them here:

• Napnes Inc –  features a complete refresher of 120 hours of theory, a multiple-choice exam, and 120 hours of clinical experience.
• Regents Online Campus Collaborative – features a less rigorous course program for the LPN with an inactive and unencumbered license, with a course of 100 hours, 30 of which are clinical experience.
• Degree Leap – features a matching engine for purposes of discovering the best programs for LPN refresher courses.

LPN Refresher Courses are a great way to get back into the LPN profession; jump into license renewal, and refresh your licensed nursing career.

Private Nursing Schools

Colleges and universities come in two flavors, public and private. Though both of them are capable of offering a quality education, there’s some debate over what’s better- private nursing schools, or public ones.

Before looking at the things that separate them, it’s important to see what they have in common:

–        Students of either are eligible for state financial aid, or financial aid through various nursing organizations.

–        Both types of school turn out students who are qualified to take the NCLEX-RN.

–        Tuition reimbursement schemes offered by employers can be redeemed for either school.

–        Both types of schools are just as likely to be approved by the state Board of Nursing.

Private Nursing Schools vs. Public Nursing Schools

Though they’re fundamentally the same, public and private schools have some key differences.

Public nursing schools are supported by money from the state. They are generally larger, and may have larger class sizes, which results in less student-teacher interaction. Public schools also charge lower tuition fees to state residents, and higher ones to students coming from out of state. Residents also usually have an easier time being accepted to public nursing schools than non-residents do.

Private nursing schools are supported by tuition and endowments. They are generally smaller than public schools, and have smaller class sizes. Private schools also usually charge higher tuition fees than public schools, and may not charge different fees to residents versus non-residents. Private nursing schools may not necessarily accept residents any more easily than non-residents, and may also have additional requirements for admission.

Financial Aid and Private Nursing Schools

When it comes to nursing degree programs, none of them are cheap. One of the best incentives that states and schools have come up with to help lure new students to their nursing programs is to offer loan repayment schemes, tuition reimbursement offers, grants, and scholarships. Private nursing schools may have better financial aid programs than public schools. Public schools are usually just working with money given to them by the state, and some private schools get a lot more in tuition, donations, and endowments than public schools are granted. As a result, they can usually afford to be more generous with their scholarship and financial aid programs.

Some nursing students may be able to attend private nursing schools for nearly free, if they are able to qualify for financial aid through the school, the state, and any other scholarship programs available to nurses in their area. Hospitals and other medical facilities are also good sources of tuition money, since some of them have their own, private tuition reimbursement programs for students that are willing to sign on to work for them after graduation.

Finding Good Private Nursing Schools

Though private nursing schools generally offer a high quality education, that doesn’t mean that they’re all created equal. Even schools that are accredited may have nursing programs that aren’t any good to students who want to go on to practice, so would-be nurses have to be careful about ensuring that the nursing programs they enroll in have the Board of Nursing’s seal of approval.

All states have their own Board of Nursing, which is the organization responsible for setting educational requirements for nurses, and determining which organizations are capable of sufficiently educating them. The Board maintains a list of schools and programs that meet its approval, and it’s important that aspiring nursing students choose a nursing program that’s on this list. If they don’t, no matter how good their education is, they won’t be allowed to sit for the NCLEX-RN, and won’t be allowed to practice after graduating.

Ultimately, choosing a Board of Nursing-approved school is more important than deciding to attend a public school versus a private one. Private nursing schools have some distinct advantages over public schools when it comes to things like financial aid and admissions for out of state students, but making sure that you are qualified to sit for the NCLEX-RN is crucial to your nursing career. With the help of your state’s Board of Nursing, you’ll be able to choose an approved private nursing school, and have an easy time finding programs to pay for it.

Nursing Postgraduate Courses

Nursing postgraduate courses are the courses available to nurses that already have a bachelor’s of science in nursing. These courses are designed to help registered nurses advanced their careers, and provide them the opportunities to become Nurse practitioners, Nurse anesthetists, Nurse midwives, Forensic nurses, Psychiatric nurses and Nurse educators.

These are only a handful of the career possibilities for nurses with advanced degrees. Some schools have postgraduate programs that allow nurses to specialize in different ways, while others just offer master’s or doctorate degrees in nursing, and certificate programs in specialized areas.

The Nursing Shortage’s Impact on Nursing Postgraduate Courses

There’s a nursing shortage going on, and it has impacted literally every area of the industry. Experts predict that the world will be short roughly one million nurses by 2020, and 580,000 of those will be needed in the U.S. alone. Schools and state organizations have been working overtime to help crank out registered nurses and licensed practical nurses to meet hospital demand, but many nursing postgraduate courses have suffered as a result. A lot of nurses are choosing to go work for hospitals that can offer big sign-on bonuses, instead of staying in school to teach. As a result, a lot of postgraduate nursing courses are seriously shorthanded. Many of them have even had to be suspended as a result, until schools can find enough teachers to fill them.

Though nursing postgraduate courses aren’t always easy to find, they’re worth looking for. Nurses with postgraduate degrees earn more money, and have far more employment opportunities than nurses without them. If nurses choose to enter a postgraduate program, they can help fight the nursing shortage by practicing nursing after graduation, or working for a school as a nurse educator, to help turn out more qualified nurses.

How Nursing Postgraduate Courses Can Expand Your Scope of Practice

Every level of nursing has a scope of practice determined by a state’s Board of Nursing. The more education a nurse has, the more he or she is allowed to do. Advanced practice registered nurses can do more than registered nurses, and registered nurses can do more than licensed practical nurses. Postgraduate nursing courses give nurses the educational backgrounds they need to advance their careers, and have a larger scope of practice.

Nurse practitioners can actually function as a person’s primary care provider in many states, just like a regular physician. Nurse midwives are able to provide reproductive care to women from puberty to menopause. Both of these nurses can do everything that a doctor can, with the exception of surgery. Without a postgraduate degree, such a wide scope of practice isn’t possible.

Finding Worthwhile Nursing Postgraduate Programs

Not all postgraduate programs are worth enrolling in. Most nurses are already familiar with their state’s Board of Nursing, which will make finding a good postgraduate program easier. The sad fact is that some schools choose to misrepresent themselves as having Board of Nursing approval, even though they don’t. Since it’s hard to find teachers qualified to teach a Board-approved course, this means that a student can end up unwittingly enrolling in classes that won’t actually allow her or him to become an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN).

To avoid falling into that trap, always cross-reference any nursing postgraduate courses with your state’s Board of Nursing’s list of approved programs. Most Boards of Nursing have the attitude that it is up to a student to research their nursing courses before enrollment, so they will not be responsible for students that end up graduating from a useless program.

Nursing postgraduate programs give nurses the opportunity to do more with their careers than be RNs or LPNs. Postgraduate programs cover a variety of fascinating topics, from psychiatry, to forensics, to oncology, and allow nurses to decide exactly what area of medicine they want to devote themselves to. After becoming APRNs, nurses can command higher salaries, be eligible for more advanced positions, and have larger scopes of practice. Though it may not always be easy to find a good postgraduate nursing course, the end result is worth the search.

Nursing Certifications List

There’s more to nursing than becoming a registered nurse, licensed practical nurse, or advanced practice registered nurse. Various nursing certifications allow nurses to indicate that they have graduated from a nursing degree program, and went on to specialize in one or more areas of medicine. The complete degree, credential, and nursing certifications list is over two hundred entries long, and includes all of the postnominal designations that a nurse can get, like BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) and MSN (Master of Science in Nursing).

When it comes to the certifications list alone, nurses can obtain:

• Advanced Cardiac Life Support Certification
• Acute Care Nurse Practitioner- Board Certified
• Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certification
• AIDS Certified Registered Nurse
• Advanced Disaster Life Support
• Advanced Legal Nurse Consultant
• Adult Nurse Practitioner- Board Certified
• Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse
• Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner
• Advanced Oncology Certified Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Advanced Public Health Nurse- Board Certified
• Basic Life Support Certification
• Basic Disaster Life Support Certification
• Certified Adult Nurse Practitioner
• Course in Advanced Trauma Nursing- Provider
• Course in Advanced Trauma Nursing- Instructor
• Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse
• Certified Addictions Registered Nurse
• Certified Bariatric Nurse
• Certified Continence Care Nurse
• Certified Case Manager
• Certified Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Certified Critical Care Nurse
• Certified Clinical Transplant Coordinator
• Certified Clinical Transplant Nurse
• Certified Critical Care Transportation Nurse
• Certified Developmental Disabilities Nurse
• Certified Diabetes Educator
• Certified Disability Management Specialist
• Certified Dialysis Nurse
• Certified Director of Nursing Administration/Long Term Care
• Certified in Electronic Fetal Monitoring
• Certified Emergency Nurse
• Certified Enterostomal Therapy Nurse
• Certified Foot Care Nurse
• Certified Forensic Nurse
• Certified Family Nurse Practitioner
• Certified Flight Registered Nurse
• Certified Health Education Specialist
• Certified Gastroenterology Nurse
• Certified Gasteroeterology Registered Nurse
• Certified Hemodialysis Nurse
• Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse
• Certified Hyperbaric Registered Nurse
• Certified in Infection Control
• Certified Lactation Counselor
• Certified Legal Nurse Consultant
• Certified Medical Assistant
• Certified Midwife
• Cardiac Medicine Certification
• Certified Managed Care Nurse
• Certified MDS Coordinator
• Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse
• Certified in Nursing Administration
• Certified Nurse Educator
• Clinical Nurse Leader
• Certified Nurse Life Care Planner
• Certified Nurse Midwife
• Certified Nurse Manager and Leader
• Certified in Nephrology Nursing
• Certified Nurse, Operating Room
• Chief Nursing Officer
• Certified Nurse Practitioner
• Certified in Neonatal Pediatric Transport
• Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurse
• Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Certified Nutrition Support Nurse
• Certified Ostomy Care Nurse
• Certified Occupational Health Nurse
• Certified Occupational Health Nurse/Case Manager
• Certified Occupational Health Nurse- Specialist
• Certified Occupational Health Nurse- Specialist/Case Manager
• Certified Otorhinolaryngology Nurse
• Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse
• Certified Peritoneal Dialysis Nurse
• Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse
• Certified in Professional Healthcare Quality
• Certified Pediatric Nurse
• Certified Pediatric Nurse Associate
• Certified Practical Nurse, Long-Term Care
• Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
• Certified Pediatric Oncology Nurse
• Certified Plastic Surgical Nurse
• Certified Radiologic Nurse
• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
• Certified Registered Nurse First Assistant
• Certified Registered Nurse Intravenous
• Certified Registered Nurse, Long-Term Care
• Certified Registered Nurse in Opthalmology
• Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner
• Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse
• Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse- Advanced
• Cardiac Surgery Certification
• Certified Specialist in Poison Information
• Certified in Thanatology
• Certified Transcultural Nurse
• Certified Transport Registered Nurse
• Certified Therapeutic Recreational Specialist
• Certified Urologic Associate
• Certified Urologic Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Certified Urologic Nurse Practitioner
• Certified Urologic Registered Nurse
• Certified Vascular Nurse
• Certified Wound Care Nurse
• Certified Wound, Ostomy, Continence Nurse
• Certified Wound Specialist
• Clinical Specialist
• Emergency Nursing Pediatric Course
• Enterostomal Therapist
• Gerontological Nurse Practitioner
• General Pediatric Nurse
• Holistic Nurse, Certified
• International Board for Quality in Healthcare Certification
• International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant
• Intensive Care Certification
• Intensive Neonatal Care Certification
• Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator
• Legal Nurse Consultant, Certified
• Licensed School Nurse
• Long Term Care LPN
• Licensed Vocational Nurse
• Menopause Educator
• Mental Health Nurse
• Mobile Intensive Care Nurse
• National Certified School Nurse
• Nurse Executive- Board Certified
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse Practitioner, Certified
• Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric
• Oncology Certified Nurse
• Orthopedic Nurse Certified
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support
• Progressive Care Certified Nurse
• Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Public Health Nurse
• Pre-Hospital Registered Nurse
• Psychiatric Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
• Registered Nurse, ANCC Board Certified
• Registered Nurse, AACN Certified
• Registered Nurse Certified in Low Risk Neonatal Nursing
• Registered Nurse Certified in Maternal Newborn Nursing
• Registered Nurse Certified in Neonatal Intensive Care
• Registered Nurse Certified in Inpatient Obstetrics
• Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner- Adult
• Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner- Pediatric
• State Enrolled Nurse
• Trauma Nursing Core Course Instructor
• Trauma Nursing Core Course Provider
• Telephone Nursing Practitioner
• Trauma Nurse Specialist
• Women’s Health Care Nurse Practitioner
• Wound Care Certified

These are all certifications or credentials, but not all of them are intended to be appended to a nurse’s name. Some are awarded at the state level (like Registered Nurse, which comes after passing the NCLEX-RN), while others are awarded by independent  certification bureaus.

More About Certifications

Certification is not always required for practice. For example, some states may require a nurse to be a registered nurse to work with oncology patients, but may not require him or her to be an Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse. Your state’s Board of Nursing can direct you to which certifications are mandatory for practicing in your state, and which are not.

Even when they aren’t necessary, getting one or more of the certifications on the nursing certifications list can make a nurse more marketable to potential employers, and able to command a higher salary. Certifications show ambition and dedication on the nurse’s part, and can open up a world of new job opportunities.

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Nurse Technician Training

Nurse Technician Job Description
A Nurse Technician is supervised by a registered nurse (an RN); the position itself was created for most nursing students working to achieve their RN license while completing clinical experience hours.  It is probably the very best job one can achieve in terms of moving up the ranks to RN, and getting invaluable experience in post-operative and surgical work.

The Nurse Technician is responsible first for patient care, assisting them in bathing and eating, checking vital signs and keeping them under observation, while reporting results to their RN supervisor.   The NT also prepares surgical and patient rooms, moves patients to examining rooms or to surgical operating theaters, and is responsible for the sterility of the equipment used.

They may also, if permitted by state law, administer medications or assist doctors in examinations.

Nurse Technician Training

Since this position was developed specifically to help nursing students, a candidate should, after completing college level courses in the sciences (mathematics, anatomy, chemistry, biology, etc.), enroll in a nursing program, either BSN for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing, or MSN for the preferred (and more competitive) Master’s level.

Once enrolled as a student nurse, most applicants are allowed to begin training as a Nurse Technician after a year in nursing school.  One step along the way in the training is to become a certified nursing assistant (CNA), a certificated program one can complete in addition to nursing.  You thus re-create yourself, in a sense, into a person who is employable by hospitals and nursing homes.

As your bachelor degree work progresses, you will work under the following paradigms, all designed to augment training as a Nurse Technician:

-Standard curriculum at college level (again, emphasis on the sciences), to be completed in two years.

-Advanced courses in health assessment and care of special populations (geriatric, disadvantaged, infant and child care) as well as medical ethics.

-Clinical experience in crisis centers, hospitals, medical facilities or nursing homes.

The last requirement is the most difficult, in that RN training at the minimum requires 1,000 hours of clinical experience, and the competitive ideal should be at least 4,000.  It is here that training and the professions merge, as the Nurse Technician accrues those hours in her newly created position.

If you don’t want to be an RN, there are separate schools specifically for Nurse Technicians; these programs are usually adjunctive to, and can be registered in, any nursing training school or any accredited university with a nursing program.  Frequently, Nurse Technician training is used for a prospective health worker to “get a feel” for nursing and assistance in a hospital or medical setting.

The Nurse Technician’s Exam

There’s always a test or certificate to earn in nursing, no matter what status or step you are on, and the NT is no exception.  This certification is administered through the NHA (National Health career Association) and is a nationally acknowledged achievement.  What really looks good, and proclaims your interest and commitment to the NT’s career, is the fact that the certification exam is voluntary.

Once certified, you can continue up the ladder to RN, or remain where you are as an NT; both positions are recognized in the medical profession, and both are steps to other specialties, if the candidate desires to move on.

Nurse Technician Job Outlook and Salary

Because Nurse Technician is recognized as a step that many take on the way to RN, the Bureau of Labor and Statistics rates it in the same “favorable” category as RN, in that growth is expected anywhere from 9% to 27% and beyond.  This expansion will probably be due to the overcrowding of medical facilities throughout the country, and the need to hire new staff.

The salary of a Nurse Technician, due to its assistive nature and the lack of degree work required, is considerably less than the $60,000 average for an RN.  The national average for an NT is $28,410, with wide variance from state to state.

Nurse Technician training should be a first step to a much higher and well-paying career as an RN, but it is a great “dip in the pool” for someone just wanting to get the idea, and the routine, behind nursing. 

Neonatal Nursing Degree

A neonatal nursing degree is a subspecialty within nursing education that deals with infants who are born with any of a variety of problems.  Neonatal nurses find themselves caring for and treating newborn infants with problems such as prematurity, infections, cardiac malformations, birth defects, and other problems that require intensive care or even surgery.  Although some birth problems require long term attention from a neonatal nursing staff, most neonatal nurses only treat newborn babies from the time they are born until the time they are released from the hospital.

Neonatal Nursing School

To become a neonatal nurse, you must become a registered nurse first.  Doing this requires a degree in nursing.  Nursing degrees are available at different levels of education. You can earn an associate’s degree in nursing, or a bachelor’s degree in nursing.  The preferred avenue for someone who desires to become a neonatal nurse is to earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing, as that nursing degree offers more flexibility and prepares the nursing student more thoroughly for a neonatal nursing career.

Neonatal Nursing As A Specialty

Although it is not necessarily required, your job prospects as a neonatal nurse will be dramatically improve with a course of study that specializes in neonatal nursing.  Universities such as Baylor University in Texas and Vanderbilt University in Tennessee offer master’s nursing degree programs specializing in neonatal care.  Baylor University’s Neonatal Nursing track is for experienced nurses who want to advance their careers and become Neonatal Nurse Practitioners (NNP).  It is a 37 credit hour curriculum that focuses on nursing care for infants from birth through two years old.  The Medical University of South Carolina offers a similar program that requires prospective neonatal nursing students to have at least one year of nursing experience in a neonatal intensive care unit.

What You Can Expect From Your Neonatal Nursing Degree

As a specialized field of nursing, job and earnings prospects for students receiving a neonatal nursing degree are better than for registered nurses in general.  Where registered nurses can expect to earn an average of $60,000 a year, neonatal nursing program graduates can expect an average wage of $80,000 a year.

Different Levels of Neonatal Nursing Care

Neonatal nursing degrees prepare students for all levels of neonatal nursing care.  The first level of care is for newborn infants who are healthy.  There is not much demand for nurses in this field.  The second level of care is for sick or premature infants.  There is a much greater demand for neonatal nurses at this level because these babies need around the clock care and attention.  The third level of care occurs in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.  This is for infants who are seriously ill or extremely premature.  Nurses at this level not only care for infants who are on ventilators and feeding tubes, but also educate the parents of these sick newborns as to how to care for their infant when they are discharged from the hospital.

The Cost Of A Neonatal Nursing Degree

Neonatal nursing degree costs range from $200 to $1000 per credit hour.  The curriculum is usually a 40 credit hour curriculum.  In-state tuition is always less expensive, so you can save a substantial sum of money by establishing residency in the state where you want to receive your neonatal nursing education.  Some courses of study are as long as 60 credit hours.  Other costs associated with a degree in neonatal nursing are the costs of certification exams which range from $250 to $300, as well as uniforms, books, and supplies.

Financial Aid For Nursing Students

Students who are seeking a neonatal nursing degree have a variety of resources available for financial aid.  The government has acknowledged a shortage of nurses, and therefore has instated a number of programs designed to help students afford a nursing degree.  Among these programs is one from the US Department of Health And Human Services that pays for tuition, costs, fees and even provides a monthly stipend to nursing students in return for a commitment to working in a facility that has a critical shortage of nurses.  The Department of Education also has work study programs in place for students who can demonstrate a financial need. Professional nursing organizations also have lists of sources of financial aid for nursing students.  In particular, The National Association of Neonatal Nurses has a number of resources available to guide prospective neonatal nursing students. 

Neonatal Nursing Continuing Education

As you probably know, states have continuing education requirements for all nurses, neonatal nursing continuing education is just one of these requirements. Most of these are 20 to 30 hours of CE every year or, at most, two years; some of the required CE is based upon current employment, some is worked out on an hourly basis, and one state (Oklahoma) has no CE requirements at all.

But neonatal nursing is different, and the continuing education it demands is a separate paradigm from “state requirements.”

When you became an RN, prior to your specialization in neonatal nursing, it may have seemed to you like your educational requirements were endless.

Well, they were, and they still are.

Nursing, particularly in insuring the care and well-being of the very young, is one field that demands continual education, far beyond the minimal requirements of CE (continuing education).  We consider neonatal nursing, a field that has new developments and innovations occurring on a weekly basis, as needing not just continuing (ongoing) education but continual (never-ending) education.

Why Neonatal Nursing Continuing Education Is Vital

A pop quiz:  Have you ever studied the effects of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome, and do you know proper procedures for an infant with this condition?  If you are a neonatal nurse, the answer to that question had better be “yes,” especially since it is incumbent on you as an infant’s caregiver to recognize symptoms for early detection and thoroughly understand proper care procedures.

Yet Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome is a relatively new development, first reported on the medical scene in 2005.  A neonatal nurse or midwife of ten years ago would not have known about it; however, drug addicted mothers, and their unfortunate children, have been around a lot longer than seven years.

That is why neonatal nursing continuing education is so vital; new developments, procedures and infant conditions are being reported on a monthly basis in some cases, and no nurse who cares for infants and the newborn can afford not to have a thoroughly understanding of these new revelations in neonatal care.

The Effects of Neonatal Nursing Continuing Education on Your Nursing Career

As a nurse who is already far past the RN stage and specializing in a single field, you are no minimalist, and you probably have never done measures by half.  If you subscribe to the idea that continuing knowledge and cognitive dissonance (that pain you get when you think new ideas) are a part of the job, you are on the right path, we believe.

If you still need convincing, there are reasons beyond the need for knowledge:

-You achieve a sense of balance as a neonatal nurse: you know exactly what to do in a given situation and what role you play in a crisis or medical problem with an infant or newborn.

-You achieve a sense of empathy towards your patients and their families, the kind of authority, patience and understanding that new parents respond to, far beyond a good “bedside manner.”

-You achieve a sense of advancement, as a professional and as a valuable commodity to your unit and supervisors.

All of this translates to benefits for you, your patients, your medical team and your facility.  Now, find out where to get this continuing education.

Neonatal Nursing Continuing Education Programs & Courses

Your medical facility should offer seminars, workshops or webinars on a regular basis, educational opportunities to expand your knowledge and value as a neonatal nurse, and which you must take advantage of in order to be the best in your specialty.

Job Outlook for the Well-Educated Neonatal Nurse

Continuing education is not without its financial rewards: an experienced neonatal nurse, according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, commands an annual salary that averages $25,000 above that of an RN ($50,761 for an RN in a Neonatal ICU vs. $79, 638 for a Neonatal NP).

Professionalism pays, and neonatal nursing continuing education is utterly necessary to make you a top flight newborn/infant medical professional. 

Mental Health Nurse

Mental health is one of the fastest growing fields in health care today. With an increase in mental health nursing degrees being obtained, the need for these specialized health care workers in the field is being met. The needs of mental health patients are being given more specialized care today to help address the prevalent mental health problems.

Mental Health Nurse Education Requirements

Becoming a mental health nurse requires a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing in addition to a bachelor’s in nursing and being licensed as a registered nurse. Because mental health patients’ needs are very different from those in other fields of physical only ailments, it requires a master’s degree to work in these mental health clinics. Having this additional education helps nurses to deeper understand the factors involved in their care.

Once a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing has been obtained, the next step is to get a license after passing an examination. Psychiatric mental health nurses with a master’s degree command a higher salary than nurses in other fields. Additionally, depending on the state’s requirements, mental health nurses are required to continually take periodic exams and also participate in postgraduate classes as part of their continuing education requirements.

Mental Health Nurse Responsibilities & Job Description

Individuals with mental health nursing degrees are qualified to handle a variety of responsibilities within their field. In addition to mental illness, mental health nurses can also treat substance abuse issues. Below is a list of responsibilities that are typically handled by these nurses:

–        Performing physical health examinations

–        Understanding medical history (including mental especially)

–        Ordering and giving diagnostic tests for specific concerns

–        Assist patients with daily activities such as bathing, recreational activities, eating and spiritual care

–        Prescribing treatment and therapy options specifically designed for each patient

–        Work with a team of doctors, therapists, social workers, and mental health nurses to deliver specially designed treatment

–        Helping special needs patients manage their acute care and chronic illness

–        Providing patient education in class settings or one on one, as well as with family members

Mental Health Nurse Areas of Specialty & Scope of Practice

Within all the different responsibilities, mental health nurses can also perform their duties in different areas. Among those areas are the following:

–        Clinical Research

–        Pediatrics

–        Acute Care

–        Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

–        Emergency Care

–        Critical Care

–        Psychiatric Medication

–        Counseling

–        Intervention

–        Mental Health Education

–        Family Therapy Services

–        Psychiatric/Mental Health

–        Psychotherapy

Mental Health Nurse Practice Settings

The most common place people think mental health nurses are needed is hospitals. Besides hospitals, they are needed and used in a variety of settings. Mental health nurses also practice in the following settings:

–        Community Facilities

–        VA Hospitals

–        Sleep Disorder Clinics

–        Recovery Programs

–        Prisons

–        Substance Abuse Centers

–        Hospitals

–        Short-Term Care Facilities

–        Long-Term Care Facilities

–        Schools

–        Private Practice

Mental Health Illnesses Covered by Psychiatric Nurses

Mental health nurses cover treatment of a variety of people in all age groups with a number of mental illnesses. Some of those mental illnesses include the following:

–    Bipolar Disorder

–    Dementia

–    Psychosis

–    Anxiety Disorder

–    Major Depression

–    Schizophrenia

Characteristics of Mental Health Nurses

Mental health nurses have a different skill set that is needed for their specialty field. This field requires very dedicated and persistent nurses to follow through with patient care as they learn to overcome and manage their illness. Because of the difficult and long-lived nature of mental illness, it requires mental health care workers to be extremely compassion, empathetic, and very understanding. This field can be very rewarding for a nurse as they are able to be one of the first ones to witness a positive change in a patient’s behavior.

Mental health is a growing field in health care as treatment is becoming more specialized for individuals. Mental health care nurses are needed in a variety of settings, work with individuals of all ages and mental health illnesses, as well work with a team of health care workers to provide the proper care for mental health patients. Nurses who have their mental health nursing degrees play an important part in the treatment and care of mental health patients in all clinical settings.