Pursuing a course in nursing in USA is an exciting and fulfilling dream for many healthcare aspirants. There are about 5.2 million registered nurses (RNs) in the United States, making nursing the biggest part of the healthcare team. These professionals take care of patients, help doctors, and really make a difference in people’s lives.
Since the average age of nurses in the USA is 46 years old, it’s important to get more new nurses to keep up with the changing needs of healthcare. In this blog, we’ll talk about everything regarding pursuing a course in nursing in USA. We will also talk about job possibilities and the best universities for nursing programs in the USA.
If you’re thinking about becoming a nurse, the USA is a great place with many chances for quality education and meaningful experiences. Nurses do all sorts of important things, like helping prevent sickness and taking care of people with long-term health issues. Let’s dive into the world of nursing, getting licensed, and the best universities that are shaping the next generation of nurses.
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Why Pursue a Course in Nursing in USA?
Nursing courses are among the top-picked healthcare courses in the United States. There are many compelling reasons for pursuing a nursing course in USA. Here are five compelling data-based reasons why pursuing a nursing career in the USA is an excellent choice:
- Registered nurses (RNs) in the USA enjoy a median annual wage of $89,010.
- The employment outlook for RNs is projected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
- Approximately 193,100 job openings for registered nurses are expected each year during this period.
- RNs work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, physicians’ offices, home healthcare services, nursing care facilities, outpatient clinics, and schools.
- Registered nurses provide and coordinate patient care, educate patients and the public about health conditions, and contribute significantly to quality and safety.
Nursing in the USA offers a rewarding career path with competitive pay, job stability, and the chance to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
Want to build a Career in Nursing? Read the blog to know more.
Eligibility Criteria for Nursing Courses in USA
You need to stand up to certain parameters in order to be eligible for the courses in nursing in the USA. Here are some of the eligibility criteria required:
- To pursue nursing in the USA, students are required to have completed higher secondary education. For admission to a Bachelor’s in Nursing (BSN) program, a high school diploma or equivalent is necessary.
- Most high-ranking nursing colleges in the USA expect a minimum of 80% or Grade B (equivalent to a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale) at the bachelor’s level.
- Aspiring nurses must obtain a registered nursing license. This credential demonstrates their commitment to the profession and adherence to ethical standards.
- Some universities may require a GRE (Graduate Record Examination) score for admission. The specific score threshold depends on the institution.
- Students should have completed prerequisite courses in subjects such as biology, chemistry, and math with a minimum grade requirement.
Courses in nursing in USA offer a pathway to compassionate care and professional excellence, and meeting these eligibility criteria opens doors to a fulfilling nursing career.
Top Colleges & Courses for Nursing in USA
There are several top universities in the United States that offer courses in nursing. These colleges are ranked among the best colleges in the world. This section will unveil the top 10 colleges for pursuing nursing courses in the United States.
The table below contains the list of the top colleges and popular nursing courses offered.
| Name of the College | Nursing Course Offered |
| Johns Hopkins University | Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) |
| University of Pennsylvania | Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) |
| University of California – San Francisco | Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) |
| Columbia University | Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia |
| University of Michigan – Ann Arbor | Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) |
| University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill | Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) |
| University of Washington | Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) – Master of Nursing |
| Vanderbilt University | Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) |
| Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine | Master of Science in Nursing Education |
| Emory University | Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) |
These top 10 nursing colleges in the USA offer a range of specialized programs to specialize in various career paths within the nursing field.
Students also read: Top Universities in USA
Courses in Nursing in USA Fees
Studying nursing in the USA as an international student comes with various costs to consider. For tuition fees, undergraduate programs like the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) can range from $12,930 to $61,156 per year, while higher degrees may have higher costs. However, this course can vary from college to college.
Apart from the other fees, there are other living costs required as well. Students are requested to visit Cost of Studying in the USA for Indian Students for more details.
Admission Process for Courses in Nursing in USA
Now when you are done with eligibility criteria and colleges, you must be sure of the admission process. Students are often confused regarding the admission process for study-abroad programs. But we have got you covered.
In this section, we will discuss regarding the admission process for nursing courses in the United States. The steps are as follows:
Eligibility Requirements
- International students wishing to study nursing in the USA must meet specific admission requirements.
- These include proof of proficiency in English, which is usually demonstrated through language tests, such as TOEFL or IELTS.
- Students must also submit transcripts, proof of financial support, and completion of relevant prerequisite courses.
College and Course Selection
- Research universities offering nursing programs and select those that align with your career goals.
- Visit the official websites of these universities to check admission deadlines, requirements, and eligibility criteria.
Application Submission
- Fill out the online application form provided by the university.
- Upload scanned copies of essential documents, including transcripts, certificates, and standardized test scorecards.
Application Fees Payment
- Pay the required application fees as specified by the university.
- You get several payment methods to make the payment.
Document Verification
- Some institutes require verification from organizations such as the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers or the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools.
- These evaluations ensure that applicants’ records meet the necessary standards for studying in the US.
Admission Decision
- After submitting the application, universities review the materials.
- Successful applicants receive an admission offer, which includes details about enrollment, orientation, and visa procedures.
The admission process involves assessing eligibility, selecting universities, submitting applications, and ensuring proper evaluation. Pursuing nursing in the USA opens doors to a rewarding career in healthcare.
Read more at Study in USA for more information.
Top Scholarships for Courses in Nursing in USA
If you’re considering pursuing nursing in the USA, exploring scholarships can significantly ease the financial distress. This can be a relieving sight for the students dealing with the financial challenges. Here are some top nursing scholarships available for international students:
- Education Future International Scholarship: This scholarship is open to both US and non-US citizens. It supports undergraduate and graduate students pursuing various fields, including nursing.
- Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD): Funded by the US Department of State, this program provides scholarships for undergraduate students from diverse backgrounds, including nursing.
- Momeni Iranian Financial Assistance Scholarships: Specifically for Iranian students, this scholarship assists those pursuing nursing degrees in the USA.
- American Association of University Women International Fellowships: AAUW offers fellowships to women pursuing graduate or postgraduate studies, including nursing.
Remember to check the eligibility criteria, deadlines, and application processes for each scholarship. These opportunities can make your nursing journey more accessible and rewarding.
Do you still have more queries? Visit us at Study Abroad Consultants in Bangalore and get your career-related queries resolved in minutes from our industry experts.
Summing It Up!
Studying nursing in USA is a great way to start an exciting and fulfilling career in healthcare. There are around 5.2 million registered nurses (RNs) in the country, and they play a crucial role in making sure people stay healthy. Nursing offers lots of job options, steady employment, and a chance to help others. The USA has excellent universities with special nursing programs, helping you become an expert in the field.
While the costs of studying nursing can be different, there are many scholarships to help international students with money. This blog talks about the requirements to get into nursing school, how to apply, and lists some of the best universities, giving valuable information for anyone dreaming of a successful nursing career in the USA.
Need assistance? Connect with our study abroad expert counselors in Bangalore!
Here is our success story out of many from the student “Ruhi Nudkarni” who got admission to the University of London:
iDreamCareer, particularly Mrs. Shilpa Pathak, has been instrumental in shaping my ambitions. Mrs. Pathak’s attention to detail and extensive experience in college counseling transformed my aspirations into reality. From researching postgraduate programs aligned with my interests to meticulously advising on personal statements, her dedication navigated me through the stressful college application period. Thanks to her resourceful approach, I received offers from top-ranked universities in policy studies. The clarity I gained from iDreamCareer has been a game-changer in my academic journey. – Ruhi Nudkarni
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FAQs
Nursing programs in the USA typically range from 2 to 4 years. An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) takes about 2 years, while a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program usually spans 4 years.
Requirements include a high school diploma, completion of prerequisite courses, and often a good GPA. International students may need English proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
Yes, the USA is excellent for nursing with top-notch universities, diverse career opportunities, competitive salaries, and a high demand for skilled healthcare professionals.
Generally, Indian BSc Nursing degrees are accepted in the USA. However, graduates may need to pass equivalency exams and meet state-specific licensing requirements for practice.
Sushant, an accomplished content writer at iDreamCareer, has dedicated his life to the pursuit of writing since childhood. Having earned his education at the prestigious University of Delhi, he possesses a profound understanding of both arts and science in the field of education. Leveraging his professional experience, Sushant brings a fresh perspective to analyzing emerging trends in the realms of writing and education. His youthful mindset, coupled with a positive outlook, is geared towards enlightening students through the impactful delivery of wisdom and knowledge.
