In recent years, an increasing amount of nursing programs have sprung up in the state of Florida. This is due to new legislation attempting to combat an expected nursing shortage. If you are considering applying to nursing school, here is why Florida should be your first choice:
1. Climate
Florida, commonly known as the sunshine state, is renowned for its balmy weather and beaches. Florida's temperate climate draws tourists, retirees and students from all around the world. If you choose to attend nursing school in Florida, despite the odd hours you may have to keep during your practicals, you can take comfort in never having to battle your way to work during a blizzard. Additionally, nurses who work in tourism-oriented Florida areas may get to work with patients from a range of diverse backgrounds.
Despite generally pleasant weather, Florida has the highest rate for hurricanes in the United States. While some might see this as a drawback, nurses can actually see this as benefit. Because of the hurricane threat, Florida has the most hospitals in the country, as well as excellent disaster relief centers. For nursing students interested in disaster relief, emergency medicine and other similar fields, going to nursing school in Florida is an excellent choice.
2. Schools
Florida has a wide range of nursing programs. In fact, over a hundred new nursing programs in this state have been approved in the last five years to deal with an expected nursing shortage. However, this shortage has nothing to do with the quality of nursing schools quality in the state. Five Florida schools were ranked within the top in the category of top 100 nursing programs by the US News Graduate Schools Rankings. There are nearly 300 different nursing programs for those who wish to pursue a degree in nursing. The variety of programs offered throughout the state is of great importance because of the spectrum of degrees offered. A student can obtain their license in Practical Nursing to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
3. Job Opportunities
Florida is a state that draws in massive amounts of tourists and retirees. It currently has 212 non-federal, acute-care hospitals — the third highest amount behind the states of California and Texas — 648 nursing homes, and 3,042 assisted living centers. With a population of nearly 19.5 million and a tourism rate of approximately 90 million, nurses in Florida are at a shortage and employment opportunities are excellent.
Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons
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