Is Nursing a Good Major to Pursue in College?

I'm seriously considering nursing as my major in college because I've always liked the idea of helping people and have an interest in health care. However, I keep hearing mixed things about the challenges and job prospects for nursing graduates. Would nursing be a good major to start with? Also, what should I look for in a college's nursing program, and are there specific schools known for having excellent nursing majors? Any advice or insights would be greatly appreciated as I try to make a more informed decision!

Nursing is indeed a very rewarding field if you're driven by helping others and have a passion for health care. In terms of job prospects, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics currently forecasts a 7% growth in the nursing field by 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations. The aging population, primarily baby boomers, are accelerating the demand for healthcare services, and nurses play a vital role in meeting these needs.

However, a nursing degree can be demanding. Students are often required to gain clinical experience alongside their studies, and the coursework itself can be rigorous. The program includes a mix of technical skills, such as pharmacology and health assessment, as well as developmental knowledge areas, including pediatric and geriatric care.

When choosing a nursing program, a few things to look at are:

1. Accreditation: The program should be accredited by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Accreditation ensures the program has met certain standards of quality and that you will be eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) upon graduation.

2. NCLEX Pass Rate: This is a good indicator of how well a program prepares its students. Look for programs with a high pass rate, which shows that graduates are well-prepared for their nursing career.

3. Clinical Rotation Opportunities: Schools with strong connections to local hospitals or healthcare facilities often provide better clinical experiences.

Regarding schools known for exceptional nursing programs, Johns Hopkins University, University of Pennsylvania, and Duke University consistently rank at the top. These programs offer expansive clinical opportunities, cutting-edge nursing research, and innovative curricula. However, many state schools also have excellent programs (i.e., University of Michigan and University of Washington). Your state flagship university may very well have a reputable nursing program that might allow you to avoid out-of-state tuition costs.

Ultimately, remember that while rankings can be helpful, the best program for you depends on personal factors, such as financial considerations, geographical preferences, class size, and your overall feeling of fit with the school and program.