The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there were 34,690 registered nurses working in Connecticut nursing jobs as of May 2007. At that time, the average annual wage for registered nurses in Connecticut was $66,890, which works out to an average hourly wage of $32.16. This is significantly higher than the average wage earned by workers in all industries throughout the state. The average annual wage of workers in all industries at this time was $47,680, or $22.92 per hour. This data displays one reason that Connecticut residents may choose to complete Connecticut nursing programs and enter this rewarding health care field that allows them to provide direct services to patients, while earning good compensation.
Throughout the nation, job prospects for registered nurses are set to experience one of the highest growth rates of any industry. According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook 2008-2009 Edition published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses can expect a 23% growth rate by the year 2016, which would mean an additional 587,000 jobs in the nursing field. This increase is expected to occur, in part, because of our continuously growing population, an aging population experiencing extended lifespans, and the anticipated retirement of registered nurses currently working in the field. Prospective nurses considering Connecticut nursing careers can expect to see a parallel rate of growth in nursing jobs in Connecticut.
Prospective students who are currently considering Connecticut nursing programs may want to seek out a program that results in a bachelor’s degree or higher. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses with at least a bachelor’s degree with enjoy far more and better employment prospects in the coming years. Registered nurses who advance their education to a graduate level can expect to experience the greatest opportunities for career advancement and employment.