Data collected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics for its May 2007 Occupational Employment Statistics report shows that, at the time, there were 5,660 registered nurses working in Vermont nursing jobs making an average annual wage of $58,950, which is $28.34 per hour. This is over $20,000 more than the average wage for workers across industries in Vermont, which was $38,060 per year, or $18.30 per hour. This considerably higher pay and higher standard of living is surely one reason why so many Vermonters choose Vermont nursing programs to start their careers.
The nursing industry is becoming even more appealing as it continues to grow to meet the demands of the nation’s expanding and aging population. This, coupled with the number of registered nurses set to retire in the coming years and the growing trend towards more fully utilizing the skills of registered nurses to meet patients’ needs while keeping health care costs down, has led to an anticipated 23% growth rate in the nursing industry by the year 2016. This growth rate, as reported in the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook 2008-2009 Edition, would result in 587,000 additional employment opportunities for registered nurses by 2016, and is one of the fastest growth rates in the country across industries. Vermont nursing careers can be expected to experience a similar growth rate, making this a great time to enter a nursing career in Vermont.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics report also notes that the best, and most abundant, nursing positions will be open to registered nurses that hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. In light of knowing this, prospective nurses considering Vermont nursing programs may want to consider this as they plan their nursing education.