Nurses are recognized as some of the most trusted professionals in America, and the profession should continue to be in demand. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), registered nursing will see a 26 percent job growth rate between 2010 and 2020, making it among one of the nation's fastest growing professions. In 2010, there were 2,737,000 registered nursing jobs within the United States, and the national median salary for these nursing positions was noted as $64,690.
A BSN in Ohio provides job seekers with a competitive edge in seeking out job opportunities and negotiating salaries. Whether voluntarily or encouraged by employers, RNs across the state have been enrolling in RN to BSN programs in record numbers. According to an article from The Columbus Dispatch, enrollment in the state's RN to BSN programs rose fourfold between 2008 and 2011. In addition to its salary and employment advantages, a BSN opens up opportunities for specializations and advanced practice.
Ohio RN Requirements
Ohio requires an associate's degree as the minimum level of education for all registered nurses. In addition to an associate level education, you must also pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). If you are an RN from another state, Ohio honors your qualifications for a license if you have passed the NCLEX-RN. You should contact the Ohio Board of Nursing for the most recent licensure requirements. Licenses are valid for a two-year period and, within each licensing period, you are required to complete 24 contact hours of approved continuing education.
Employment of Registered Nurses in Ohio
According to BLS national data, hospitals employ the largest concentration of RNs. Ohio is among the top ten states for the number of employed RNs. Several large metropolitan areas with high concentrations of nurses are located in Ohio. For example, the Huntington-Ashland metropolitan area, located in southeastern Ohio, has the fourth highest concentration of RNs in the nation.
Steps to Earning a BSN in Ohio
Schools offering the RN to BSN nursing degree program are located throughout the state. Like many programs within others states, A BSN in Ohio requires completion of around 120 hours of coursework. Depending on the school, some completed general education courses from other schools may transfer. In general, you need to have an associate of science degree in nursing, a minimum grade point average usually between the range of a 2.0 and 2.5, and an active Ohio registered nursing license.
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