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How Much Do Travel Nurses Make?

Nurse Salaries / Travel Nurse Salary

Travel nurses move around the country to work in short-term nursing jobs. This is a different type of position from other nursing jobs because travel nurses work with independent staffing agencies. Travel nursing is also different because travel nurses tend to make more money. 

Travel nurses make an average of $98,031 per year, according to ZipRecruiter. But there are several factors that go into a travel nurse salary.

In this article, we’ll cover:

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How much do travel nurses make?

Travel nurses make an average of $98,031 per year, or $47 per hour, according to ZipRecruiter. This is a higher number than RNs, who earn an average annual salary of $77,600 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

There are several reasons why travel nurses make more money than other nurses. The biggest influence on the higher pay is the demand for travel nurses. There’s a big demand for nurses who can travel on a temporary or permanent basis — and that means higher salary potentials. According to CNBC, at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, travel nurse salaries were at record highs.

How does a travel nurse salary work?

There are several factors that go into travel nurse pay. Agencies normally offer hourly rates for a travel nurse assignment. This is different from payment for traditional RNs. Non-travel nurses receive a salary. They are not given additional stipends.

Travel nurses usually receive pay on top of their base salary. This is often included in a “total pay package.” A total pay package includes the base hourly wage and any extra compensation for personal expenses such as housing, food, and mileage related to the job. It’s important to note that this extra pay is not considered income — so it does not have taxes withheld.

  • Here is an example of a travel nurse monthly pay package:
  • Base monthly pay (taxable) $3,500
  • Housing stipend $1,500
  • Meals stipend $900
  • Mileage stipend $600
  • One-time sign-on bonus $3,000

Here is an example of a pay package for a non-traveling nurse:

  • Base monthly pay (taxable): $3,500
  • Continuing education stipend: $600
  • One-time sign-on bonus: $2,000

In other cases, you might find that these additional expenses are calculated into the hourly rate, resulting in higher pay per hour.

As a travel nurse, you might also receive bonuses. Some travel nursing agencies pay sign-on bonuses or retention bonuses, incentivizing nurses to work with them long-term.

What benefits do travel nurses get?

While you may find some agencies that offer 401k plans or life insurance, most travel nursing jobs do not have traditional benefits. However, as a travel nurse, you might get benefits that typical RNs don’t receive. You may be paid stipends for:

  • Housing
  • Meals
  • Mileage

Mileage expenses are intended as reimbursement for the travel it takes to reach your assignment. For agencies that do not pay a housing stipend, housing is often provided.

How much do travel nurses make an hour?

Traditional RNs make an average of $37 per hour, according to the BLS. Compare this to travel nurses, who earn $47 per hour according to ZipRecruiter.

You might be able to negotiate a higher hourly rate by working overtime or by working “off” shifts, such as nights, weekends, or holidays.

How much do travel nurses make during Covid?

When the COVID-19 pandemic began in early 2020, salaries for travel nurses went up. Hospitals were desperate for qualified nurses. Agencies began paying travel nurses twice as much as their usual salary.

However, now that cases of COVID-19 have begun to level off, the demand for travel nurses has dropped. It is unclear whether travel nurses will make a higher than usual salary moving forward.

Highest paying states for travel nurses

The top 10 states with the highest nurse salaries are:

  1. California — $124,000
  2. Hawaii — $106,530
  3. Oregon — $98,630
  4. District of Columbia — $98,540
  5. Alaska — $97,230
  6. Massachusetts — $96,630
  7. Washington — $95,350
  8. New York — $93,320
  9. New Jersey — $89,690
  10. Connecticut — $88,800

You don’t necessarily have to travel far from home to be a travel nurse. However, the more flexible you are with distance, the more job opportunities will be available to you. 

A travel nurse’s salary almost always includes compensation for lodging and travel expenses. The money you receive typically depends more on the required skills for the job than the distance of the job from where you live. This is why it’s not uncommon for a travel nurse to make just as much money working 100 miles from home as they would if they were to work 300 miles from home. 

If you want to become a travel nurse primarily because they make more money, then you should familiarize yourself with the locations that pay the highest nurse salaries.

How to become a travel nurse

Wondering whether this type of nursing is a good fit for you? The first step in how to become a travel nurse is getting your associate degree in nursing (ADN) or bachelor of nursing (BSN). Next, sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to become a licensed registered nurse.

Depending on the healthcare staffing agency you want to work with, you may need a minimum amount of experience. What’s more, if you want to specialize in a certain field of nursing, this might require additional licensing. It’s a smart idea to work in your chosen specialty for at least two years before making the jump to travel nursing.

It’s also important to know that if you want to work as an RN, you have to be licensed in the state where you work. That’s where the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC) comes in. The NLC provides a multistate license that lets nurses practice across state lines. Many U.S. states implement the NLC.

Once you have a few years of experience and have received your compact license, you should be ready to find work as a travel nurse.

How to earn more as a travel nurse

Travel nurse pay by state varies widely. Research which states pay travel nurses the most and consider taking a job in a higher-paying location. Remember to consider the cost of living in that state, too.

Rapid response assignments are another way to earn more money. Hospitals with rapid response assignments will typically ask nurses to arrive ready to work within just a week or two. It may be an emergency situation. 

If you specialize in a certain area, you will be eligible for higher pay. Some of the highest-paying nursing positions include:

Make sure you have your compact nursing license and all of your paperwork ready to go. This allows you to easily move across state lines and work as a nurse in multiple different locations. You may consider working with multiple different travel nurse agencies as well.

Many hospitals also pay more money to nurses who work the night shift, weekends, or holidays. If you are willing to be flexible and go wherever you are needed, whenever you are needed, you can make more money as a travel nurse.

Job outlook for travel nursing

As the U.S. continues to deal with the ongoing nursing shortage (which is expected to continue through 2030), all kinds of nurses are in high demand. However, the need for travel nurses has somewhat fallen off.

Hospitalization rates for COVID-19 have stabilized, and in many cases, relief funding for the virus has run out. This means that many hospitals are now looking for full-time nurses instead of travel nurses. Demand for registered travel nurses dropped by a third during March 2022.

The BLS predicts employment for RNs will grow by 6% between 2021 and 2031. For qualified nurses willing to travel, there will still be jobs available. But the salary numbers that hospitals are willing and able to pay in the future is unclear.

Pros and cons of travel nursing

One of the biggest attractions of travel nursing is how much money travel nurses make. Travel nurses normally earn more than traditional RNs.

As a travel nurse, you will also be able to stretch and challenge yourself, taking on interesting work in different parts of the country.

But the travel nurse life isn’t necessarily all sunshine and rainbows. Since your lifestyle will be based around traveling, it may be difficult to stay connected with friends and family at home. Travel nursing might not be for you if you have a spouse and/or children.

Since travel nurse contracts are short-term, job security can also be stressful.

FAQs

How much money do you actually make as a travel nurse?

Travel nurses make an average of $98,031 per year, or $47 per hour, according to ZipRecruiter. However, your travel nurse salary will vary based on factors such as location and specialty. You might also receive stipends for expenses such as housing and mileage. 

Do travel nurses get paid more?

Yes. Travel nurses usually are paid more than staff nurses. According to ZipRecruiter, travel nurses make an average of $98,031 per year. Traditional RNs earn an average annual salary of $77,600 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Do travel nurses get free housing?

Travel nurses usually receive a housing stipend. This money is specifically allotted to cover your housing costs. Other agencies might provide housing for you to live in.

Travel nurse jobs near me

Higher pay is just one of the benefits of travel nursing jobs. If you think this position is right for you, the next step is to start your job hunt. Register with Incredible Health for free to find the highest-paying travel nurse jobs across the United States.

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Written by Hailey Hudson

Hailey Hudson is a full-time freelance writer based out of Atlanta, Georgia. She works with clients in the healthcare, digital marketing, education, and pet industries.

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What Is An MSN Degree?

Nursing Degrees & Schools / MSN

An MSN degree is a graduate degree, and short for Master of Science in Nursing. Nurses pursue this degree to further specialize their skills and education in preparation for more advanced roles. Earning an MSN also allows them to seek out leadership or teaching positions within the nursing field. They might work as a nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, or nurse educator. 

Some of the most common coursework for include advanced pharmacology, nursing research, and advanced health assessment. 

Most MSN degree programs take up to three years to complete. However, the total time needed depends on your prior degrees and your enrollment schedule.

In this article, we’ll talk about:

Admission Requirements

Criteria for admission at MSN programs vary. But they’ll likely have a combination of the following:

  • A Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing degree although students without one can try the RN-to-MSN route.
  • Minimum GPA (typically 3.0 but some programs start at 2.5).
  • At least a year of work and clinical experience as a registered nurse for the RN-to-MSN route.
  • Relevant coursework, including statistics.

Tuition

Tuition can vary widely, depending on your choice of school. State schools are likely the most affordable, costing you the least amount per credit. Private universities, on the other hand, will cost more.
The price tag for your new degree could run anywhere from $30,000 to $70,000 although tuition at some schools could well exceed $100,000, even $200,000, depending on the course of study. Scholarship and grants can help alleviate any financial burden. There are also nursing student loan forgiveness options once you do graduate.

Types of MSN programs

If you have decided to pursue a Master of Science in Nursing degree, the next step is choosing a specific degree program. If you’ve decided to pursue an MSN degree, the next step is choosing a specific degree program. Your decision hinges on what experience you have up to this point. There are four different types of MSN degree programs organized by experience.

Direct-entry MSN

This program is perfect if you have a bachelor’s degree in a subject other than nursing. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Generally, you’ll only have to take a few undergraduate courses to bring you up to par with this program’s requirements. Applicants with higher GPAs have an upper leg on the competition. It takes most students about three years to complete this program, as the first year is dedicated to learning clinical skills.

BSN-to-MSN program

A BSN-to-MSN program is geared toward nurses who have already received a BSN. Students can complete this online or in-person, though they must receive in-person clinical hours. The program accounts for the student’s clinical experience, so it usually only takes 18 to 24 months to complete the degree.

RN-to-MSN

An RN-to-MSN program is for a nurse who has a nursing diploma, an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), or a bachelor’s degree in a major other than nursing. It creates a way for them to obtain a master’s degree. Sometimes, students can receive a bachelor’s degree while they are pursuing their master’s. You can get your degree in this kind of program in 2 to 3 years.

Dual MSN program

This program helps a student pair their graduate-level nursing education with another degree field, such as business and health administration. That way, when the nurse graduates, they will have a master’s degree in two different fields.

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MSN specializations

Many students choose an MSN specialty to focus on while getting their degree. Getting an MSN specialization has a lot of benefits. You’ll be better equipped to get higher-paying jobs in leadership positions. And employers will look on you more favorably because they know you have the skills and education to be successful in a specialized field.

As an MSN student, you can specialize in a certain type of healthcare. Or you can get a Master of Science in Nursing degree with the goal of working in administrative and education roles.

Some common MSN degree specialties include:

No matter what field of medicine you’re interested in, you can find an MSN degree specialization that’s a good fit for you.

Nursing careers you can pursue with an MSN degree

Some of the most common positions that nurses with Master of Science in Nursing degrees take are:

  • Nurse practitioner
  • Clinical nurse specialist.
  • Certified nurse-midwife.
  • Nurse educator.
  • Certified nurse anesthetist. 

These are leadership positions that are different from working on the floor as a nurse. Some incorporate more administrative tasks. Others, such as nurse educators, are based on teaching others. Either way, you have a higher role than RNs. These are all roles you can get with an MSN degree.

Nurse practitioners (NP)

A nurse practitioner typically serves as a primary care provider. Similar to RNs, they focus on taking care of patients. However, NPs have the responsibility to diagnose patients and prescribe treatments. In 2021, nurse practitioners earned an average annual salary of $118,040, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Clinical nurse specialist (CNS)

Clinical nurse specialists are responsible for treating patients, advising other nurses, and doing research. Nurses in a CNS role do a lot of work coordinating with other medical professionals to improve patient care. In 2022, clinical nurse specialists had a median salary of $110,760.

Certified nurse midwife (CNM)

Certified nurse midwives take care of pregnant women through pregnancy, labor and delivery, and postpartum. They are also qualified to provide more general gynecological care for women. In 2021, nurse practitioners earned an average annual salary of $114,210, according to the BLS.

Nurse educator

A nurse educator works at colleges and universities, teaching nursing curriculum. Their duties include creating curriculum; supervising clinicals and research; and giving lectures. In 2021, nurse educators averaged $82,040, according to the BLS.

Certified nurse anesthetist (CRNA)

A certified nurse anesthetist keeps an eye on patients during surgery. They are responsible for administering anesthesia and monitoring the patient throughout the procedure. In 2021, nurse practitioners earned an average annual salary of $205,770, according to the BLS.

MSN salary

Nurses with an Master of Science in Nursing degree are eligible for higher-paying jobs. For example, nurse practitioners earn an average salary of $118,040 per year.

What’s more, this job field is growing. The BLS states that overall employment of nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners is projected to grow 40% from 2021 to 2031. This is faster than the average for all occupations. About 29,400 new job openings are projected each year.

MSN salary by state can also vary. Washington, New York, and California as the highest-paying states for nurses with MSN degrees according to ZipRecruiter. The average annual MSN salary in Washington is $133,938. Your salary may vary based on where you are trying to get a job.

Nursing graduates with an MSN are in high demand all over the country. Once you’ve graduated and you’re ready to work, you can earn a lucrative MSN salary.

Should you get a MSN?

Pros of an MSN

One of the basic benefits of having an Master of Science in Nursing degree is the ability to specialize and gain expertise. Specialization helps provide a nurse with more opportunities than other nurses. 

In some settings, nurses are replacing doctors — meaning those nurses need more expertise. Being able to step into those roles requires expert knowledge that you learn through your degree. 

Another advantage to having an MSN degree is access to more jobs and better pay. Nurses work long hours. The more education you have, the more compensation you can receive. And the higher your job satisfaction is likely to be. 

Receiving an MSN degree puts you in a position for a pay raise. Most nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, and Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN) make an average of $118,040. Some employers will even pay for tuition because they need specialized nurses. Other employers offer a bonus. 

Finally, obtaining an MSN allows nurses to work independently. Many doctors have started outsourcing roles to nurses who have the specifications to help them out. By specializing, you can become your own boss and maybe even operate a clinic on your own.

Cons of an MSN

Like all degrees, this option isn’t for everybody. While earning a Master of Science in Nursing degree has a lot of benefits, there are also things you should consider before jumping into this degree path.

First, MSN tuition is expensive — more so than other nursing degree options. US News states that an online master’s of science in nursing can cost between $35,000 and $60,000. And in some cases, you may only get a salary increase of $10,000. Finding the funds to cover MSN degree tuition can be difficult for many students.

MSN degree programs are advanced. If you register for an MSN program, be prepared to commit to the coursework and invest a lot of time. The curriculum will likely be more challenging than other nursing programs.

You should also consider your past education and experience when deciding whether to pursue an MSN degree. Each MSN program has different requirements. Some may ask that nurses have a few years of experience or complete certain prerequisites. 

MSN programs have both pros and cons. At the end of the day, the decision on whether an MSN is right for you will be different for everyone.

MSN degree FAQs

What is the difference between an RN and an MSN?

If you are an RN, you have either an ADN or a BSN degree. MSNs take things a step further by providing a master’s level education in nursing. RNs primarily work hands-on taking care of patients. MSNs are qualified to step into leadership roles that may give them the ability to diagnose patients or prescribe treatments. Because nurses with an MSN degree have additional education, they generally earn more money than RNs.

Is an MSN degree worth it?

If you want to work in a higher-paying leadership or education role, an MSN degree can be worth it. An MSN boosts your earning potential and allows you to work independently. However, MSN programs are also challenging and expensive. Whether an MSN degree is worth it depends on your current situation and where you want your career to go.

What can a nurse do with an MSN?

If you have an MSN degree, you will be qualified to work in leadership and/or education-based positions. Some of the most common job roles for master’s degree graduates are nurse practitioner; clinical nurse specialist; certified nurse-midwife; nurse educator; and certified nurse anesthetist.

How long does it take to get your MSN?

For many students, an MSN program can take up to three years to complete. However, this can vary greatly based on your situation. If you don’t have a BSN, an entry level MSN program will take about three years. But if you already have a nursing degree, you could finish your MSN in as little as 18 months with a BSN-to-MSN program.

[ MORE: Earn your CEUs online, 100% free with Incredible Health. ]

Next steps

If you’ve decided an MSN degree is the right step for you, research MSN programs to learn the requirements. Most programs require that you have spent at least a year as a registered nurse. If you qualify, you can begin the program whenever you’re ready.

An MSN degree is certainly an investment. It requires both time and money. But having an advanced degree can pave the way to your success as a nurse.

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“Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioners.” bls.gov. Accessed June 13, 2022.

“What Is The Average MSN Salary by State.” ziprecruiter.com. Accessed June 13, 2022.

“Weighing Costs of an Online Master’s in Nursing.” usnews.com. Accessed June 13, 2022.

“MSN vs RN: Preparing For A Career in Nursing.” online.regiscollege.edu. Accessed June 13, 2022.

Written by Hailey Hudson

Hailey Hudson is a full-time freelance writer based out of Atlanta, Georgia. She works with clients in the healthcare, digital marketing, education, and pet industries.

Read more from Hailey

Your Guide to Hospital Orientation

You got a new nursing job and you’re getting ready for your first day of work. Congratulations! But before you can fully step into your new position, you’ll need to complete hospital orientation — and for many new nurses, this process can be a daunting one.

As much as you might like to skip orientation altogether and magically know how the unit works, unfortunately there’s no way to get around nursing orientation. However, there are several things you can do to set yourself up for success on orientation day.

In this article, we’ll cover:

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What is hospital orientation?

HIPAA compliance, fire safety, the color of codes — can all seem obvious until you need them. When you sIf you get a job at a new hospital or you’re a nurse who is changing specialties, you will need to go through hospital orientation. Nursing orientation programs provide the information you need to work as a nurse in a new environment. You will learn about things such as how to use electronic medical records (EMRs), and the policies followed at this hospital.

Each hospital structures their nursing orientation period a little differently. However, most of the time you will spend time listening to lectures in a classroom before moving to work on the unit floor. A nurse educator will oversee the education-based part of your orientation. For more hands-on work, you’ll likely be matched up with an experienced nurse, called a preceptor.

The classroom portion of nursing orientation can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. Once you are working on the unit floor, you might work under your preceptor for up to six months.

Benefits of hospital orientation

Nurses are creatures of habit; this is how you save lives. Unfortunately, when working in a new location, For many nurses, orientation can seem overwhelming. It’s true that hospital orientation can be challenging. You’re learning a lot of new information in a short time period, and this can be both physically and mentally exhausting.

But orientation is extremely important. The information you’re receiving is designed to help you succeed as a nurse at this hospital. Orientation programs allow you to develop:

  • Knowledge
  • Competency
  • Experience
  • Relationships
  • Clinical judgment
  • Application skills

Your orientation equips you to perform your job as well as possible. Throughout the process, you should also feel less anxious about your new nursing role as you get to know your new coworkers and how they do things.

Remember, the nurses you’re working with are there to help you succeed. They want to see you thrive in this position! Don’t be afraid to ask questions and get involved everywhere you can.

What to expect at hospital orientation

You might receive a schedule for hospital orientation prior to arriving on the first day. If not, you should be given or told the schedule for orientation when you get there.

Most hospitals will start you out in a classroom or conference room with other new nurses. There, you will watch videos and/or listen to lectures from nursing staff. The information covered will include everything you need to know to work at that facility, such as how to use the type of equipment that hospital uses and how to enter information using the electronic medical record (EMR) system. You will also spend time filling out paperwork for your new position.

When the classroom portion of orientation is over (this could be a few days or a few weeks), you will be assigned a preceptor so you can start working on the unit floor. You will shadow your preceptor and help out where asked.

Checklist: What to bring to nursing orientation

Your new hospital might give you a list of items to bring to nursing training. The things you need may vary from hospital to hospital; they could also depend on the floor where you’re assigned. Most likely, though, you will need to bring:

  • Stethoscope
  • Lunch, water, and snacks
  • Orientation book or packet
  • Copies of your nursing license and certifications (and your ID)
  • Any other relevant paperwork
  • Nursing watch
  • Dressing scissors
  • Penlight
  • Lanyard or badge holder
  • Notebook and pens

What should you wear to hospital orientation? This is another question where the answer will vary based on the hospital. Some hospitals might ask you to wear your scrubs. Others prefer business casual. It’s completely appropriate to ask ahead of time what you should wear to the first day of nursing orientation. There, you will likely receive instructions on what kind of scrubs and nursing shoes to wear in the future.

Hospital orientation tips

Feeling nervous about the big day? Take a look at these hospital orientation tips to help yourself feel more prepared. 

Expect the mundane

HIPAA compliance, fire safety, the color of codes — these things can all seem obvious until you need them. When you start working at a new hospital, there can be a lot of redundancy in the training. Even in times of short staffing, some hospitals may require you to watch training videos and take tests on fire safety just like new employees do.

Don’t tune out these lectures or brush them off as unimportant! The knowledge you’re gaining could make a crucial difference down the road. Make a game out of trying to figure out how this hospital or unit is different from what you’re used to.

Be flexible

Nurses are creatures of habit; this is how you save lives. Unfortunately, when working in a new location, your usual habits and working style may need to change to match the new location. 

Try to resist the urge to insinuate that your old way was better. This can create some friction between you and the other nurses. Remember, different doesn’t mean wrong — it’s just different! Be willing to adapt to a new way of doing things.

Be yourself

The first few days of meeting new people can be awkward. If you’re trying to make a good first impression, it can be easy to overdo it by being too sweet or too polite. 

The more that you act like the real you, the easier it is for people to get to know who you really are. If you aren’t sure about something, just ask. A quick explanation of “this is how I’m used to doing a task, is this right?” will show others that you are willing to be trained in the right way.

Create boundaries

If you’re like many nurses, you may have trouble saying no. It’s a good thing to be a team player and help your new coworkers out. But it’s a good thing to set boundaries, too.

Define the times when you’re available to work and the times when you are not. If you set and communicate these boundaries up front as you step into a role at a new workplace, this will set you up for success moving forward.

Ask questions

Don’t be afraid to ask questions during hospital orientation. This will help you learn — and learning is why you’re here. There truly is no such thing as a stupid question.

In addition to asking about anything that isn’t covered or isn’t clear, some questions to ask during nursing orientation might include:

  • Where do I find policies and procedures?
  • Who do I ask if I have a question that policies and procedures don’t answer, and how do I contact them?
  • What procedures are nurses allowed to perform/what is the scope of practice? What requires a doctor’s order?
  • How do I call a code?
  • Where are supplies kept?
  • What codes or passwords do I need?

You can also ask questions about the hospital’s orientation process when you are initially interviewing for the job. This can give you an idea of expectations, procedures, and how long orientation usually takes.

Do a test run

There’s nothing worse than showing up late to the first day of nursing orientation because you weren’t anticipating traffic or you didn’t know where to park. If you’re unfamiliar with the hospital where you’ll be working, take some time before orientation begins to drive the route. 

See how much traffic is on the road at certain times of day. Make sure you know where you’ll need to park, how it works, and how close you’ll be able to park to the area of the hospital where you’re assigned.

Once you’re in the hospital for orientation, stay late to explore the facility if needed. You’ll want to know where places like the cafeteria and different units are located. Your manager may give you a tour, but it’s still helpful to figure things out for yourself.

Hospital orientation FAQs

What should I wear to hospital orientation?

You will most likely need to wear business casual clothes to hospital orientation (not scrubs). If you’re unsure of the dress code, reach out and double check ahead of time.

How long is hospital orientation?

The classroom portion of nursing orientation might last a few days, or a few weeks. Once you are working on the unit floor, you might work under your preceptor for up to six months.

What should I bring to hospital orientation?

While your needs might vary, a few things to bring to hospital orientation include your stethoscope; lunch; copies of your nursing license and certifications; a penlight; notebook and pens; and a lanyard or badge holder.

Why is hospital orientation important?

Hospital orientation is important because it prepares you to do your job as effectively as possible. The information you receive at orientation is designed to help you succeed as a nurse at this hospital. Orientation programs allow you to develop knowledge, competency, experience, and application skills.

Succeed at hospital orientation

Hospital orientation day can seem like a scary prospect. But once you get to your new workplace, you’ll feel much more comfortable as you get the lay of the land and begin meeting all of your new coworkers.

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Sources:

“What Are Electronic Medical Records?” usfhealthonline.com. Accessed June 15, 2022.

“Using action research to evaluate a nursing orientation program in a multicultural acute healthcare setting.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Accessed June 15, 2022.

“Understanding The Role of The Nurse Preceptor.” onlinenursing.duq.edu. Accessed June 15, 2022.

Written by Hailey Hudson

Hailey Hudson is a full-time freelance writer based out of Atlanta, Georgia. She works with clients in the healthcare, digital marketing, education, and pet industries.

Read more from Hailey

What You Can Do With an ADN Degree

Nursing Degrees & Schools / ADN

Many nursing candidates opt for a two-year Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) when they first begin their nursing journeys. If you’re eager to strap on a stethoscope and get to work, ADNs are the quickest way to get started in the nursing field. You’ll be able to work in facilities including hospitals or doctor’s offices.

An ADN is the minimum degree required to work as a nurse. ADNs require two years of training from an accredited nursing school. Nurses who earn their ADN must then sit for the NCLEX exam to earn their license to practice.

In this article, we will explore:

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ADN curriculum

Associate Degree in Nursing programs include prerequisites, nursing-specific courses, and clinicals. An ADN program typically lasts 18-24 months. Throughout the program, you’ll take courses and complete hands-on clinicals that will prepare you to care for patients as a nurse.

Associate Degree in Nursing programs include prerequisites, nursing-specific courses, and clinicals. Nursing students can expect to cover the following subjects in their prerequisites and nursing coursework:

  • Adult nursing care
  • Anatomy and physiology
  • Anthropology
  • Basic pharmacology
  • Behavioral health
  • Communications
  • Foundations in Nursing
  • Maternal and child nursing care
  • Microbiology
  • Psychology

ADN program clinicals

Nursing clinicals are part of an ADN program, too. They give nursing students an inside look at what it will be like to work with patients.

First, you’ll study nursing skills in a controlled lab environment, where your instructor will ensure you meet nursing standards of care. Then, put your skills into action with real patients.

Most nursing schools partner with healthcare providers for clinical opportunities. Nursing students work under the supervision of their instructor and a nurse during clinicals.

ADN expectations

Some people might think an associate’s in nursing is easier than other nursing school options. However, this isn’t necessarily true. You will still be completing rigorous coursework and grueling clinicals.

Many ADN programs require students to maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. Of course, the harder you work in nursing school, the more prepared you’ll be to graduate and find a job.

Taking the NCLEX

Once your associate degree in nursing is complete, there’s one final step — passing the NCLEX. This test qualifies you to begin work as a nurse. It tests your critical thinking skills and contains between 75 and 265 questions.

Some ADN program students choose to enroll in NCLEX prep courses so they feel more confident going into the exam. When you’re nearing graduation, you will need to submit an application for licensure and an application for the exam.

If you don’t pass the NCLEX-RN on your first try, you can retest after 45 days.

ADN nursing certifications

Certifications are not required for nurses with an associate degree. However, they do add value to your resume. Nurses who earned their RN licensure may want to consider earning an additional certification. Some of the most popular options include the CNE, the CCRN, and the PCCN.

Certified Nurse Educator

The Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) certification prepares RNs to teach other nurses in a nursing school or as an in-house educator at a healthcare facility. You will need further education outside your ADN degree to take this exam: Eligible RNs must have a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing.

Critical Care Registered Nurse Certification

The Critical Care Registered Nurse Certification (CCRN) is ideal for RNs who plan to work in emergency care settings, like a hospital emergency room or a trauma care center. There are multiple variations of this certification, including adult, pediatric, and neonatal. You can get a certification that helps with direct care, or certification for nurses who influence care of acutely/critically ill patients but do not provide care directly.

Progressive Care Nursing Certification

The Progressive Care Nursing Certification (PCCN) qualifies nurses to deliver direct care to acutely ill patients. This specialty certification is a good fit for nurses who want to work in intermediate care, direct observation, stepdown, telemetry, transitional care, or emergency departments. Candidates must complete a certain number of clinical practice hours.

ADN program cost

The cost of an Associate’s Degree in Nursing varies considerably among nursing programs. You can expect to pay between $6,000 and $20,000, depending on whether you attend a public or private school.

Community colleges are a popular choice for many people working toward their ADN due to their affordability and flexibility.

Some nursing schools have waiting lists due to high demand. Schools with shorter wait times for new students may cost more. Other costs can include uniforms, supplies, and textbooks. Nursing students can expect to pay anywhere from $60 to $300 for a stethoscope (depending on quality) and roughly $50 to $100 for one set of scrubs. Textbooks and other required educational materials can cost up to $1,000 per semester.

Nursing school waitlists

Unfortunately, nursing school waitlists are common. With nurses in high demand, many people are answering the call to become nurses. Some nursing schools cannot meet the growing surge of nursing applicants, causing backups in their admissions departments.

Keep in mind that being waitlisted is not the same as being rejected for admission. If you are notified of waitlist status, don’t get discouraged. This simply means you meet all criteria for admission, but you need to wait until there is an opening.

Ask the school about their waitlisting policies so you know what to expect. Other questions to ask if you are waitlisted:

  • Where do I rank on the waitlist?
  • What is the average wait time?
  • Can I take prerequisite courses now?

If you prefer not to wait, you can always apply to some other nursing programs. You may get admitted sooner. Waitlist times vary depending on the school and the location.

It’s also important to know that ADN programs typically have the longest waitlist times since they are popular. You may have to wait as little as one semester or as long as three years. It all depends on the school.

Average ADN nursing salary

Nurses with ADNs earned a national average of $73,000, according to payscale.com.

The average ADN nursing salary may vary based on employer.

Nurses with ADNs can work in a variety of settings, including doctor’s offices, hospitals, home health agencies, and outpatient care centers.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), demand for RNs is expected to grow by 6% between 2021 and 2031. And although many hospitals do favor candidates with their BSN degree, registered nurses with an associate’s in nursing will still be able to find work, although you may not be able to work at a hospital right away.

For more details, request a free nursing salary estimate by creating a free account with Incredible Health. Find out quickly what other nurses with your education and experience earn.

Jobs available for ADN degrees

As a nurse who completed an Associate Degree in Nursing program, you’re qualified to work in a variety of healthcare settings. You may choose to work at a: 

  • Insurance company
  • Doctor’s office
  • Hospital (including specialty hospitals)
  • Outpatient care center
  • College or university
  • Nursing home
  • Home healthcare company

Jobs available for RNs with an ADN degree include:

  • Home care nurse
  • Patient coordinator
  • Care coordinator
  • Clinical associate
  • Pediatric nurse
  • Clinical nurse liaison
  • Clinical research associate
  • Oncology RN
  • Emergency room RN
  • Infection preventionist

It’s true that an ADN degree might not lead to all the jobs a BSN could find. But it’s also true that your associate’s in nursing will qualify you to work in a variety of interesting, challenging, and fulfilling roles as a nurse.

In addition to the list above, many nurses with ADN degrees choose to work as travel nurses, finding work in different parts of the country.

ADN to BSN

Many nurses who have an ADN degree choose to go back to nursing school later and continue their education. One of the most common options is ADN to BSN (or RN to BSN). If you have your Associate’s Degree in Nursing and would like to further your education to get a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), this track is a good fit for you.

RN to BSN programs can be completed online through an accredited institution. Most RN to BSN programs take 18-24 months to complete.

Since many states require a BSN degree for RNs, and many hospitals prefer nurses with their BSN, it’s never a bad idea to continue your education. This will boost your earning potential and allow you to step into leadership roles.

Is an ADN degree worth it?

At the end of the day, an ADN degree can 100% be worth it for certain students. However, it’s important to weigh all of the options and consider what’s best for your specific situation. This is especially true if you’re weighing enrolling in a BSN program vs an ADN one.

An Associate Degree in Nursing has benefits, such as a lower cost and shorter program duration (2 years) compared to a BSN program. So, you could get a job and start working sooner. But it comes with drawbacks, too.

For example, an ADN degree might not open as many doors as many hospitals prefer to hire nurses with a BSN. A BSN program also goes more in-depth than an ADN one. Nurses with BSNs also earn more than their peers with an ADN ($89,000 vs $73,000, according to payscale.com).

The bottom line: an Associate’s Degree in Nursing is an excellent starting place for wherever you want to go in the field of nursing.

FAQs

How long does it take to get an ADN degree?

Most ADN programs take two years to complete. Your associate’s in nursing could take slightly shorter or longer depending on what school you attend and how quickly you work through your classes. Your time will be spent doing coursework and clinicals to earn your degree.

What kind of jobs can you get with an ADN degree?

If you have your associate’s degree in nursing, you’re qualified to work in settings such as a hospital, doctor’s office, or nursing home. You may choose to work as a pediatric nurse, care coordinator, or a travel nurse. While a BSN will open doors to higher positions, you won’t have any trouble finding a job with an ADN degree — especially considering the current nursing shortage in the U.S.

Is an ADN program worth it?

At the end of the day, the answer to this question will differ for everyone. Some ADN pros and cons include that the program is affordable and fast, but many employers prefer nurses with a BSN. An ADN degree may or may not be the best decision in your specific situation. However, you can always build on an ADN degree later if you decide to return to school for your BSN.

Find work with your ADN degree

Once you have your ADN degree, you can start job searching. There are plenty of nursing jobs available all over the country for nurses who have completed their ADN nursing programs. Use Incredible Health — where employers apply to you — to find the full time, part time, or per diem job you’re looking for. Click here to get started today.

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Written by Hailey Hudson

Hailey Hudson is a full-time freelance writer based out of Atlanta, Georgia. She works with clients in the healthcare, digital marketing, education, and pet industries.

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