The RN graduation rate in Nebraska has increased by 93 percent over the past 10 years, according to the Nebraska Center for Nursing. While the U.S. averages 825 RNs per 100,000 people, Nebraska has 1070 RNs per 100,000 people. Even so, Nebraska faces a shortage of 5580 RNs by 2020. And the shortage is expected to hit rural counties especially hard.
Education is important to Nebraska nurses. Enrollment in BSN programs in Nebraska is at historic highs. Of 1508 new RN grads in 2009, 400 nurses achieved an associate degree, while 1108 achieved a BSN or higher. The Nebraska Board of Nursing states that the largest number of traditional BSN students are at University of Nebraska's five campuses, and the second largest number are at Creighton's two campuses. Nurses who receive BSN degrees are well positioned to move ahead in their careers, perhaps into education or nurse practitioner roles. Nebraska nurses have a variety of RN to BSN educational options available to them.
Programs to consider:
- Clarkson College (Omaha) Clarkson's RN to BSN program is largely online, although classes are also offered at the campus. The program may be completed at a full-time or part-time pace. Clinical work may be completed at the student's workplace with faculty approval. Clinical classes include advanced population health, and principals of nursing leadership and management.
- University of Nebraska Medical Center (Omaha). Courses are online and available at the student's convenience, while others are presented at set times. Students are admitted in August. The program may be completed full-time in about a year or may take up to three years part-time. Clinical requirements in community health can be met in or near the student's home.
- Union College (Lincoln). Students may progress on a full-time or part-time basis, but the program must be completed within six years. Upper level nursing classes in physical assessment and pathophysiology must be taken at Union College. Six hours of religious education and two hours of physical education are part of the RN to BSN curriculum at Union.
