Nursing Requirements in Texas, California and OhioTexas, California and Ohio Offer Promising Nursing Career Opportunities Nursing Education and CareersEXPLORE TOP DEGREES
QUICK LINKS Nursing School Listings Find a Nursing School Nurse Education & Career Center Types of Nursing Programs Nursing Requirements in Texas, California and OhioTake a close look at careers in nursing, and you may discover far more than you would have ever imagined. Work in primary care, specialize in a nursing area, become a nurse educator or choose another of the numerous paths your nursing career can take. In the end, you will experience the same immeasurable rewards that accompany a job where you wake up each day with the single purpose of helping people. The other benefits of a nursing career? Exceptional pay and an exploding job market across the US. Of course, the advantages and personal appeal will differ from state to state. For those considering a nursing career in Texas, California or Ohio, review the information below to decide which of these states might promise the brightest future for you. Nursing in TexasThe second largest state in the country, Texas presents a unique mix of green fields, dusky deserts and coastal views. Whether you prefer big city, small town or suburban living, this state can meet your needs—from cultural offerings and weekend activities, to sporting events and shopping excursions. Plus, nursing remains the largest health care occupation in the state, despite the nursing shortage. Texas Nursing OpportunitiesFederal and state government analyses project that the nursing shortage will continue through 2020, meaning that job prospects in Texas will remain high at least through that period. As a result of the shortage, Texas has suffered a median 10 to 17 percent hospital vacancy rate for registered nurse (RN) positions, leaving many critical areas short-staffed and open to those who qualify. General Texas Nursing RequirementsRegulating Agency: The Texas Board of Nursing (BON) To become licensed: Candidates must graduate from a state-approved nursing school program, pass a criminal background check and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). Among the nursing schools in Texas, 84 offer accredited programs, and nursing students can enter the field with one of four credentials:
Nurses also must complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years to demonstrate competency in their field. Nursing in CaliforniaScenic beauty from coast to high desert, cultural diversity, wine country—and that's just the northern part of the state. If you enjoy nature preserves, music festivals, fine dining, skiing, or historic points of interest, California has it. Plus, the California Nurse Education Initiative adds to the drawing cards for students considering nursing schools in California. California Nursing OpportunitiesThe California Employment Development Department (CA EDD) projects an average 10,910 job openings (the sum of new jobs and net replacements) in the state for nurses every year through 2014. Over 60 percent of the nurses in the state work in general medical and surgical hospitals. Others find opportunities in physician offices, home health care services, nursing care facilities and outpatient care centers. General California Nursing RequirementsRegulating Agency: The California State Board of Registered Nurses (BRN) To become licensed: Candidates must graduate from an approved pre-licensure program, pass a criminal background check and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). The state recognizes five paths to meeting the educational requirements for the field:
Nurses in California must complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years in order to renew their state license. Nursing in OhioRich in its contributions to US history, from its Native American archaeological sites to its integral role in the Underground Railroad to providing the backdrop for the invention of the airplane, Ohio presents a multicultural legacy. The state also boasts avid devotion to its sports teams and an array of family-oriented points of interest that include major amusement parks and a famous zoo or two. Ohio Nursing OpportunitiesAccording to state projections, registered nurses will create the second largest number of new jobs among all occupations, and this growth will continue through 2020. Graduates will find the greatest opportunities in hospital outpatient facilities and physicians' offices, which typically provide regular working hours and more comfortable work settings. General Ohio Nursing RequirementsRegulating Agency: The State of Ohio Board of Nursing To become licensed: Candidates must hold a degree or certificate from a state-approved program, pass a criminal background check and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). Of the nursing schools in Ohio, the state board has approved 139 pre-license nursing education programs that offer one of four credentials to graduates:
In addition, nurses must complete 24 hours of approved continuing education course work every two years in order to maintain licensure.  Sources: |
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