RN to BSN Programs in Florida

Although the economic recession has driven an increase in nursing school enrollments, the Sunshine State has long been a destination for retirees, meaning that its population is aging more rapidly than national averages. Although the state's nearly 160,000 nurses comprise one of the largest nursing workforces in the country (Gainesville has one of the highest concentrations among U.S. metro areas, with 5,160 registered nurses), the demand for more is increasing because over 40 percent of Florida's nurses are approaching retirement age in the next decade. The Florida Center for Nursing says that although currently nursing jobs are fairly scarce, job openings should soar in the coming years as baby boomers continue settling in Florida and taking advantage of the healthcare system. Nurses with advanced training in hospice, elder care, home health, and skilled nursing may have the best opportunities; this is why enrolling in an RN to BSN program is a wise idea.