Nursing careers offer opportunity & reward
Helping care for the sick and injured in their time of need, a career in nursing offers both opportunity and reward.
Nurses work to promote health and prevent disease. Registered nurses (RN’s) provide care, treatment, counseling and health education to individuals, families and communities. Licensed practical nurses (LPN’s) care for ill and injured persons in hospitals, clinics, private homes, doctors’ offices, long-term care and other settings, working under the supervision of an RN or other healthcare provider.
About the Programs
An associate degree is a first step to becoming a registered nurse, or a certificate to become a licensed practical nurse. Jackson College offers both, as well as an LPN-RN associate degree program. Nursing is a second-admit program, meaning students start by taking general education credits and required prerequisites and then apply for admission to the nursing program.
The College’s registered nurse program (Associate of Applied Science – Registered Nurse) is now accredited by the National League of Nursing – Commission on Nursing Education Accreditation, a nationally recognized award and validation of program quality. While the nursing program has long held the approval of the Michigan State Board of Nursing, NLN-CNEA accreditation is an additional award that must be earned and maintained. The pursuit of this prestigious designation was inspired by the College’s Total Commitment to Student Success.
About the Career
Nurses combine a high level of knowledge and decision-making judgment in their work, along with caring and compassion for others. Communication and teamwork skills are vital. Prospective nurses need to be intelligent, have an interest in science, possess good reading, writing and math skills, and have strong interpersonal skills. Perseverance, flexibility and the ability to work well under pressure are attributes necessary for success.
While the work is demanding, it also offers monetary and personal rewards and satisfaction. Salaries start at about $52,080 for registered nurses in hospitals, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Licensed practical nurses start at about $35,000 annually. The career offers mobility with a variety of career opportunities available. Students may continue their education toward a bachelor’s, master’s or doctorate degree in nursing to further career possibilities.
Learn more
To learn more about nursing at Jackson College, contact Associate Professor Erin Mazur, 517.796.8483.
