As a result of the aging population in the U.S., the healthcare industry has experienced an increased demand for all professionals, including nurses. In fact, over the next eight years, the employment of nurses is projected to grow by 22 percent, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
In an effort to improve the number of affordable degree programs in this field, several regulation committees are approving the launching of new offerings. For instance, St. Cloud Technical and Community College has been given a green light to provide an associate's degree in nursing, which is slated to begin this fall, according to the SCTimes.com.
This program was established to provide licensed practical nurses with the additional training they would need to become certified registered nurses (RNs).
Joyce Helens, president of the school, stated that the approval by "the state Board of Nursing to offer our new associate's degree in nursing this fall is a tremendous show of confidence in our ability to offer quality healthcare programs and the excellent work of our nursing faculty."
Individuals who complete nursing degree programs may be qualified for high-paying jobs and promotions. The BLS reports that in 2008, RNs earned annual salaries ranging from $43,410 to $92,240.
