Nursing jobs are still abundant in many locations throughout the United States, but that doesn’t mean that they are the best fit for all nurses. Specifically, there’s been a growing trend to restrict the large number of applicants in states, like Ohio, by increasing the minimum education requirements. For example, positions that might have been a good fit for a registered nurse now require at a bare minimum a bachelor’s of science in nursing. And in the Buckeye State, educational institutions are taking note.
For example, Vindy.com is reporting that accelerated BSN programs are now being offered at schools like Kettering College. On the other hand, Miami University is cutting its associates degree program that would have led to positions as a registered nurse. And the problem for many nurses who hadn’t been incorporating future education in their career plans is that they soon may not have a chance.
One of the benefits of obtaining a nursing job is that the employer will likely help pay for continuing education (CE) costs to some degree. In the past, this has generally just included CE courses required for maintaining certification. Now, in Ohio, some healthcare systems are requiring that nurses with associates degrees go back to school for a BSN in order to keep their jobs.
If you don’t live in Ohio, keep in mind that this isn’t just a regional push for more education. While Ohio state legislators are considering making it mandatory for nurses to obtain a BSN by 2020, there are other states with similar concerns. In fact, it is really just codifying the needs of hospitals and doctor’s offices around the country who want more education from their nurses.
If you’re concerned that you may become less marketable as other candidates gain more advanced degrees, then the accelerated programs like those offered at Kettering College should provide some solace. Keep in mind that with rising college costs, the only way to consistently save money is by taking advantage of accelerated programs (as schools can always raise the costs of a college credit).
It may seem somewhat scary that your education may no longer be seen as important as it was in years past, but take some solace in the fact that this is becoming more and more true across all sectors. And it should be noted that colleges and universities are paying attention to this development in nursing jobs. It may require a little bit more work, but you have a number of options that you wouldn’t have in any other field.
Tags: Accelerated Nursing Program, Continuing Education Program, Healthcare, Kettering College, Nurse, Ohio
