According to the Idaho Department of Labor, Idaho's demand for RNs is expected to exceed the national demand in coming years. This is mainly because by the year 2016, the state's population of adults over the age of 55 is expected to increase by about 50 percent.
At the moment, almost 11,000 RNs are working in Idaho. Most of these nurses work in hospitals, ambulatory care, and long-term care. According the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, they can earn about $63,000 per year.
LPN to RN programs have become increasingly popular in the state, and more are offering distance learning options to help LPNs enter the RN workforce sooner. Most LPNs who choose these programs receive some financial assistance - either through workplace tuition reimbursement, grants, or scholarships. The Idaho Nurses Foundation sponsors scholarships, and the Idaho Student Nurses' Association has a link to help you search for additional aid. Learn more about being an RN by checking out The Idaho Nurses Association and the Idaho Board of Nursing.
Some LPN to RN programs to consider:
Boise State University (Boise, ID). With over 19,000 students, BSU is the largest university in Idaho. Their high-tech interdisciplinary simulation center helps you get real-world training.
Eastern Idaho Technical College (Idaho Falls, ID). EITC is supported by the state and has relatively low tuition. The LPN to ADN program takes three semesters and one summer term.
North Idaho College (Coeur d'Alene, ID). NIC, located on the shores of Lake Coeur d'Alene, was founded in 1933. To qualify for advanced placement, LPN to ADN students must have current acute or sub-acute work experience.
