Blog

Nursing is rapidly becoming one of the hottest careers in the healthcare industry today. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the industry is seeing a shortage of nurses that could result in 1 million open positions by the year 2020.

Increasing Demand

With nurses retiring in record numbers and insurance coverage expanding due to job growth and the Affordable Care Act, the demand for nurses is driving up wages. Employers are taking it one step further and offering generous sign-on bonuses to sweeten the deal.

Earn Your Nursing Degree Faster at Swedish Institute

Swedish Institute has remained ahead of the industry curve by offering a 20-month (5-semester) nursing program to prospective students seeking an Associate of Applied Science Degree. This rigorous program is significantly shorter than programs offered at other institutions, allowing students to enter the workforce sooner.

A Foundation for a Successful Program

The Swedish Institute’s nursing program has earned a stellar reputation. It is recognized by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). With a graduation rate of ___ (Maxine to send) and a placement rate topping 70%, Swedish is dedicated to its students’ success.

The program is incredibly rewarding, both personally and professionally; however, due to its rigorous nature, students must be academically and financially prepared and socially committed. Nursing students enrolled at Swedish are predominantly women who are head of household and have a median age of 36. Male student enrollment has been gradually increasing over the years, with male nurses making their own mark in the industry, bringing a more direct approach and unique level of care.

The school admits 20 students, three times per year, to its nursing program who meet the following admission requirements:

• 18 years or older
• High school diploma or GED
• Must pass the National League of Nursing entrance exam with a score of 100 or above (math, science)
• No post-secondary education is necessary

Here are some other key benefits of earning your nursing degree from Swedish:

• Experienced faculty committed to student education and success (hold master’s degrees and are experienced in specialty areas.)
• Small class size (7 students in a clinical setting, 12 students in the skills lab, and 20-25 in didactic/lecture.)
• Provide activities to enhance the overall perspective on nursing, including the Student Nursing Association, Technical Honor Society (3.5 GPA required), and volunteer services.

Students are encouraged to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Education can be done in steps and stages for those wanting to take their degree one step further but have family and work obligations.

A Pathway to an Exciting Career

Job opportunities in the nursing industry go beyond the hospital setting. Nurses have a spectrum of job options in other healthcare facilities, including clinics, home care, and nursing homes, to name a few. For example, students graduating with an associate degree in New York can expect to earn a minimum annual salary of $50 thousand.

A Message from the Dean

“Nursing is an incredible opportunity,” said Maxinee Black-Arios, dean of nursing at Swedish Institute. “It’s a privilege earned by few to serve and take care of people,” Arios explains how earning a nursing degree isn’t just about getting a job; it’s about creating a career for yourself. “We are committed to our students,” Arios said. “It’s a partnership we cherish to ensure we both succeed.”