Many people think that a Nursing degree can only lead to a career as a nurse practitioner. However, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) can lead to many different careers within the healthcare industry.

Educators


After a number of years practicing direct patient care, some nurses will decide to dedicate much of their time to educating colleagues, students, families and the general community.  Nurse educators take their careers in many different directions. Some choose to teach in schools, while others go from clinic to clinic to conduct information sessions to various members of the community. There are also those who work directly in hospitals and educate other healthcare professionals (i.e., doctors, patient attendants and administrators)  and registered patients on various topics, including regulated practices and recent advancements within the industry.

Research

Nurse researchers make vital contributions to the advancement of medical science. Most begin their careers as research assistants or aids, and in time develop enough expertise to lead their own research projects. Most nurse researchers earn a BScN and move on to earn a graduate degree specific to their area of interest.

Entrepreneurs/Managers

Earning a BScN can also open the gateway to starting your own healthcare centre or nursing care business. Such businesses can include wellness centres, recovery centres, or even private care services. Or, if you’re not quite ready to open up your own business just yet, a BScN also prepares you for managerial roles within the nursing industry in general.

Registered Nurse


Lastly, the most obvious career that a school of will lead to is that of a registered nurse (RN). RNs are on the frontline of healthcare. The chief responsibility of every RN is to provide the best patient care possible, which requires exceptional execution of champion practices, proper bedside manners and, most importantly, an incredible amount of patience.

Nurses work in very stressful environments, and are often caught in the midst of budget cuts, under-staffed wards, and hallways that are overflowing with sick patients. What distinguishes nurses from so many other healthcare professionals is their ability to handle these situations with a level of calmness that is so vital.

So, if you’re thinking about applying to a nursing program, know that your degree can lead you into a variety of careers.  Most degree programs will take approximately four years to complete. Most nursing schools will also offer the nursing diploma program, which typically takes two years to complete, but this can vary depending on the school of nursing and whether you are a part-time or full-time student.  Keep in mind, however, that a diploma will not lead you into the careers listed above. Most people who receive a diploma from a school of nursing move on to become registered practical nurse, whose jobs are similar to that of an RN, but with less responsibilities and authority.

Being a nurse is likely one of the most difficult but also most rewarding careers anyone can pursue. Whether working directly with patients or conducting research in a lab, nursing professionals are the backbone of any hospital or healthcare centre, and their expertise plays a crucial role in treating patients and educating the community. 




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