Nurses rank among America’s most trusted professionals, according to a 2023 Gallup Poll. Most nurses are also happy in their choice of career, with 80% reporting they are satisfied with their jobs, according to the 2022 National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses by the Human Resources and Services Administration. And a growing national nursing shortage, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, means that registered nurses will likely be in demand for at least the next decade.
But is it a good time to enroll in nursing school in Utah? The state’s high number of projected registered nurse (RN) job openings, its fast track to a nursing career, and its many opportunities for career advancement make this a great time to launch a career as a Utah registered nurse.
Why Attend Nursing School in Utah?
Here are some of the many reasons why Utah students enroll in nursing school.
Two-Year Path to a Nursing Career
Aspiring nurses in Utah can qualify to enter the workforce by earning a two-year Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). While many other healthcare positions require a four-year bachelor’s degree or higher, prospective nurses can meet the educational requirements for an RN license in as little as two academic years.
By enrolling in a two-year nursing program, nursing students can complete their program, graduate, take their licensure exam, and be ready to begin pursuing full-time jobs while nursing students who are pursuing their bachelor’s degrees are only halfway through their program of study.
Opportunities for Career Advancement
RNs have many options for career advancement. By earning a higher-level degree or gaining specialized experience, RNs can increase their scope of practice and improve their earning potential.
While a two-year nursing degree meets the requirements for an RN license in Utah, nurses can continue their education by enrolling in an RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program to earn their BSN while still working as an RN. Many RN to BSN programs can now be completed 100% online. Earning a BSN or Masters of Science Nursing (MSN) can help experienced nurses qualify for any of a number of advanced nursing roles. Experience also can help RNs move into advanced roles, including as a team leader or an RN in a specialty field.
Address Utah’s Nursing Shortage
Like many other states, Utah faces a nursing shortage. There are nearly 3,000 RN job openings in Utah, according to a report from the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity. Further, around 1 in 5 Utah nurses is close to retirement age, according to the same report, giving early-career nurses more job opportunities as those nurses retire and leave the workforce.
Flexible Nursing School Options
Many nursing students are adult learners and career-changers who need a flexible option for nursing school. Current certified nursing assistants (CNAs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) often work while earning their ADN.
Nursing schools in Utah offer several flexible options for students. Hybrid ADN programs incorporate hands-on clinical training with online classes. RNs with an ADN can also choose to enroll in an online RN to BSN program to advance their education.
Nursing School Requirements in Utah
Aspiring registered nurses must meet rigorous requirements to earn a nursing degree and qualify for an RN license. What are the requirements for nursing school in Utah? Following are typical admission, graduation, and licensure requirements for prospective nurses in the Beehive State.
<h3>Nursing School Admission Requirements</h3>
Most nursing schools in Utah require applicants to have a high school diploma or the equivalent for admission. At many schools, prerequisites require applicants to submit their transcripts that show coursework in certain relevant areas such as biology, chemistry, and math. Some nursing school programs may also set a minimum GPA for admission, and others may require applicants to submit standardized test scores. As part of the enrollment process, most nursing schools interview applicants to learn about their career goals and their preparation for a nursing program.
There are no prerequisite courses required to enroll in the ADN program at the Fortis College campus in Salt Lake City. To enroll at Fortis, applicants must have a high school diploma and achieve a minimum threshold score in the Wonderlic SLE test to qualify. New students take a campus tour and meet with admissions and campus leadership to assess their career goals and plans for the future, as well as attending student orientation prior to starting class.
At Fortis, financial aid is available to those who qualify. Students will meet with a financial aid advisor who will help them assess and evaluate their options to finance their investment in nursing education.
Nursing School Graduation Requirements
Nursing students strengthen their clinical skills and medical knowledge through courses in physiology, medical-surgical nursing, and evidence-based care as well as hands-on experience in clinical rotations. Students also complete simulations, labs, and projects as part of their nursing school coursework.
The required courses and clinical hours vary depending on the program.
Utah Nursing License Requirements
The Utah State Board of Nursing issues nursing licenses. Candidates for a registered nursing license in Utah must complete a state-approved nursing program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Applicants must also submit fingerprints.
Licensed RNs in Utah are required to renew their credential every two years. RNs need to complete at least 400 hours of practice, 30 hours of approved continuing education work, or a blend of practice and continuing education to qualify for renewal.
Nursing School Benefits and Career Outcomes in Utah
Nursing schools in Salt Lake City and across Utah prepare students for the NCLEX-RN and licensure as a registered nurse. And Utah RNs benefit from a strong employment outlook for nursing professionals.
According to projections from the Utah Department of Workforce Services, there will be an estimated 1,920 registered nurse job openings available annually through 2030. That’s more job openings than are projected for any other healthcare profession.
Become an RN at Fortis Nursing School in Salt Lake City
Looking for a nursing school in Salt Lake City? Fortis College’s Salt Lake City campus offers an Associate Degree in Nursing program for aspiring nurses. The hybrid program combines online and on-campus courses to give nursing students flexibility. LPNs and LVNs can take advantage of a special entry path that allows them to receive academic credit for their prior education.
Fortis College’s Salt Lake City nursing school students will receive coaching and tutoring during their program to be prepared to take the NCLEX-RN and apply for their Utah RN license after graduation. Contact Fortis today to learn how our nursing school can help you reach your career goals.
Recommended Readings
How to Become a Registered Nurse
What Are the Different Types of Nurses?
What Is the Fastest Way to Become a Nurse?