Authored by Debra Cornelius in College Education
Published on 10-11-2009
There is an ever increasing demand for nurses in America. In the past few years many nurses from outside the United States have been hired to fill nursing vacancies simply because nursing schools have not kept up with the demand for nurses. In the past few years all the top ranked nursing schools in America have stepped up their recruitment programs in efforts to meet the overwhelming demand for nurses from here in the United States.
The main requirement needed to apply to any of the top ranking nursing schools in America is a high school diploma with high grades in English, chemistry, physics, biology, psychology and algebra. With increased technology impacting nursing a general knowledge and understanding of computers is also helpful. Some schools require that you take and pass a pre-admission test known as the National league for Nursing (NLN) Pre-Admission Exam.
Any job opportunities in nursing can prove to be extremely challenging. Along with the discipline needed to study and complete endless hours of clinical lab assignments other skills will be called upon if you are to truly succeed in a nursing career.
Other possible traits that may be helpful in following a nursing career include the ability to interact in a calm clear manner with people under stressful conditions. Problem solving, brainstorming and team leadership skills are all skills you will need during your days in nursing school as well your nursing assignments after graduation.
Top ranked Nursing Schools are all recognized and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) which is responsible for specialized accreditation of nursing educational programs at primary and secondary levels. While there are many fine nursing schools not ranked in the top ten list, always make sure the nursing school you apply to is fully accredited by the NLNAC.
The Top Ten Ranked Nursing Schools in America include:
- University of California
- University of Washington
- University of North Carolina
- University of Illinois
- University of Pennsylvania
- University of Pittsburgh
- University of Texas
- John Hopkins University
- Yale University
- University of Michigan
In addition to school ranking, you also need to consider hospital affiliations at the nursing school of your choice. Hospital and medical affiliations will determine where you spend your clinical training. Make no mistake thinking affiliations are not important. Medical affiliations will determine the level of clinical training you receive as well as the scope of experiences you are able to take part in during your educational experience. The broader the range of clinical experiences you are able to be a part of, the better prepared you will be to step into your first licensed nursing position.
Most nursing schools will be glad to schedule a time for your to visit the campus, speak with faculty and staff, meet students already enrolled in their nursing programs and perhaps even allow you to sit in on selected classes. Take advantage of any and all available opportunities to ask questions. Visit several nursing schools before making your final decision.
The right nursing school for you is one that carries full accreditation, has resources and support options available to answer your questions before, during and after the enrollment process and has a system in place to help you job search and network with other health practitioners after graduation and in years ahead.
Resources:
- The Nursing School
- National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission
