Nursing Salaries

Overall, nursing salaries vary depending on a number of factors:

• Level of nursing degree and nursing education
• Years of experience in a chosen field
• State and city where you work (cost of living)
• Type of work you do
• Type of specialty you pursue

Licensed practical nurses typically train for their careers through a year-long education program at a hospital, community college or vocational school. After graduation, candidates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) to earn their nursing licensure.

To become a registered nurse, students must earn a two-year associate's or four-year bachelor's degree in nursing or complete a nursing diploma program. After earning their degree, candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain their registered nursing license.

Advanced Practice Nurses hold a master's degree in a particular focus area and provide one-on-one patient care services similar to those a physician would perform. The following statistics show annual nurse salary ranges for the different categories of advanced practice nursing careers.

The nursing shortage offers extremely advantageous opportunities for current nurses earning a higher degree and for nursing students preparing to enter the workforce. Many hospitals are now offering incentive programs such as:

• Recruitment bonuses (ranging anywhere from $2,000 to $20,000)
• Relocation assistance
• Housing assistance
• Day care
• Tuition reimbursement

These recruitment incentives go to nurses who accept a position at their facility and agree to a set work commitment.

Yes! Certification identifies you as a nurse who has met rigorous practice and continuing nursing education requirements in your specialty. Patients will benefit from your expertise, and employers will go out of their way to hire you and keep you happy.
_{Sources:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2010
Salary.com, 2011
Vickie Milazzo Institute, 1999-2009
Nurses For a Healthier Tomorrow, 2009}