Why be a nurse?

Watch and get inspired by stories of nurses who found their calling in nursing. Gain confidence on the opportunity as you listen to what inspired them to become nurses, the barriers and challenges, and what help them keep going as they became part of the largest most trusted healthcare profession in the U.S.

Nurses’ salaries depend on many factors. The median annual RN salary in the United States is $81,220, per U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports, making it a stable, well-paying job. That figure spans all types of nurses and geographic locations, including the lowest and highest-paying nursing jobs, with some of the highest-paid nurses earning over $200K.

There isn’t one way to get into nursing—there are many different paths to get there! When considering a future nursing career, it’s important to understand the different nursing degrees available so as a prospective student you can choose the educational path that best suits your goals and interests. Once you have an idea of your starting point, you can start to plan you journey.

There are various types of nursing, each with its own distinct focus and requirements. Different types of nurses include registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and certified nursing assistants (CNAs). Nursing specialties can range from pediatrics to oncology and require specialized training and education to provide expert care in their respective areas.

Take our quiz to explore what nursing specialty might be right for you!

There are numerous nursing schools and programs throughout the country, providing a wide range of nursing classes, degrees, and certifications to choose from. Use our guide to explore the best programs, colleges, and universities based on your needs and career goals.

Explore our Nursing Programs & Degrees Guide to find the program and location that best fits your needs.

Whether you’re pursuing an associate’s, bachelor’s, or master’s degree in nursing, there are a variety of ways to cover tuition and find financial support to help you achieve your academic goals. There are scholarships, work study programs through colleges, grants, tuition reimbursement through hospital systems, and lastly, if you have to, there are student loans available. Nursing scholarships and grants can be found through a variety of sources, including professional organizations, government agencies, and private foundations.

Visit our Paying for Nursing School directory to explore our nursing scholarships, grants, as well as the variety of financial aid programs and student loans available to you.

After exploring the nursing program that is best for you, make sure to talk to your school counselor, mentor, or admission advisor to ensure a good fit. Learn about the nursing school’s accreditation, the entrance exams requirements, and prepare a strong nursing school application.