RN to BSN Programs in Louisiana

Nurses in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, and other cities in Louisiana can take advantage of Louisiana Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs to advance their careers. According to the Louisiana Workforce Commission, RNs top the list of occupations predicted to have the greatest employment with annual average wages greater than $30,000. The report also predicts RNs will enjoy the third highest employment, with 52,250 positions by 2016. As of 2008, RNs in Louisiana earned an average hourly wage of $26.78.

Overview of Louisiana RN to BSN Programs

The Louisiana State Board of Nursing maintains a list of approved nursing education programs, including RN to BSN degrees. Most of these programs keep RNs in the workforce by offering evening courses in traditional classrooms, as well as online RN to BSN degrees and hybrid programs. Most RN to BSN degrees take 18 months to three years to complete.

Advantages of RN to BSN Programs in Louisiana

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that, while you can choose from three paths to become an RN--diploma, associate's, and bachelor's of nursing--the BSN offers the most training in communication, leadership, and critical thinking. A bachelor's in nursing degree can also open more advancement opportunities. Furthermore, many employers offer tuition assistance for a bachelor's in nursing, which makes the degree a potentially affordable career move.