RN nursing programs prepare the student for a great career in caring for other people''s medical needs. Learn about the nursing career and nursing schools. Most registered nurses work in a hospital. They give medical care to patients, as well as advice and emotional support. They monitor patients and keep record of their vital signs while in their care. It''s a demanding career but also a very rewarding one.

RN Nursing Programs

To become a registered nurse, you must attend one of several RN nursing programs. These RN nursing programs will prepare you with the hands-on skills for the job.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing: A BSN can be earned from a four-year program offered by a university or college. The BSN will put you on the path to be a registered nurse and it will set you up for further career advancement.

Associate of Science in Nursing: An ASN program is usually a two or three year program available at a junior or community college. It will prepare you a career on the frontlines of nursing. To advance in nursing, a BSN is normally required. But with an ASN, your education should only take a couple of years.

Diploma Program: A nursing diploma program is usually a three year program offered at a hospital and exceptionally rare anymore.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, graduates from RN nursing programs can expect a median salary of $62,450. The BLS also predicts that the demand for registered nurses will grow by 22 percent by 2018.

Matt Riddle is a freelance writer based out of Reno, Nev. A journalism graduate from the University of Nevada, Reno, Riddle was a newspaper reporter and then an account coordinator for a political consultant in Reno where he worked for several successful campaigns. His interests are many, but CrossFit, rock climbing, reading and writing, skiing, snowboarding, fatherhood and acting round up the list.

Bureau of Labor Statistics • Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition: Registered Nurse • Sep 12, 2010 • http://www.bls.gov/oco • http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos083.htm#earnings

Schools are listed in alphabetical order by state then city.

Carrington College California	[Sacramento, CA]
Programs: Dental Assisting Dental Hygiene Health Care Administration Massage Therapy Medical Assisting Medical Billing Pharmacy Technology Registered Nursing Vocational Nursing Request More Information >

Medical Careers Institute - Virginia Beach	[Virginia Beach, VA]
A degree from Medical Careers Institute prepares you for success in healthcare. Choose between day and evening classes taught in MCI's state-of-the-art teaching labs. Programs: Medical Administration Medical Assisting Physical Therapy Assisting Practical Nursing Registered Nursing Request More Information >