Survey data published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics for May 2007 shows that there were 17,870 registered nurses working in Nebraska nursing jobs, making an average annual wage of $52,520, which is $25.25 per hour. When compared to the average annual wage of $35,270 ($16.96 per hour) earned by workers in all industries in Nebraska at that same time, it is easy to see that professionals who choose to complete Nebraska nursing programs enjoy a significantly higher than average wage and higher standard of living when compared to other Nebraskans.
Now is an excellent time to consider Nebraska nursing programs and to get into this rewarding field that is expected to experience a 23% growth rate by the year 2016. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook 2008-2009 Edition, the field of nursing will be among the fastest growing industries in coming years and will see an anticipated additional 587,000 jobs by 2016. This increase in the demand for registered nurses will come about due to our growing and aging population, the fact that we are living longer lives, the rate of retirement of current registered nurses working in the field, and the growing trend of nurses providing additional patient services to reduce health care costs. Nebraska nursing careers are poised to see this same expansion, making this a great time to enter the nursing field.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics also reports that registered nurses holding a bachelor’s degree or higher will experience the greatest increase in job prospects and career opportunities, which is important to keep in mind while choosing between Nebraska nursing programs.