Pursuing a nursing degree in the US means taking advantage of cutting-edge clinical facilities and learning from respected experts in the industry. However, if you are interested in nursing in the USA for foreigners, you must first understand your options. Matokeo ya Mock Darasa la Saba is an online platform where people share their experiences on what they have learned from different courses.
Read on to learn about different nursing programs available for foreign nursing students in the USA and what to expect when pursuing nursing as a foreigner.
Nursing in the USA for Foreigners
Many different nursing programs are available at several colleges and universities around the United States, so prospective students may pick and choose the setting and curriculum that best suits them. Before you can apply, you will be required to hire academic credential evaluation services.
It’s understandable to be overwhelmed by the number of nursing programs available. However, after you grasp the various options, you’ll be well-equipped to consider the many nursing tracks offered by your preferred colleges and institutions. Nursing programs available to foreign students in the USA include:
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) / Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)
The training program for LPNs and LVNs last around one year. These professionals work under the supervision of a registered nurse. An LVN/LPN nurse performs fundamental patient care, such as monitoring and obtaining vital signs. After completing training, the state requires LPNs to pass a national licensure test for state certification.
Numerous universities in the United States provide LPN/LVN training programs. While there are no prerequisites for these programs, some colleges may demand a minimum SAT, TOEFL, or ACT score from foreign students.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
ADN programs are exclusive to the United States, and admission is open to foreign students at numerous colleges. The program can be completed in between 15 months and two years. As a registered nurse with an AND, you may treat, educate, and offer emotional support to patients and their families.
Before enrolling in an ADN program, students must often finish prerequisite courses. In order to receive a nursing license, Associate Degree Nurses are required to pass the National Council Licensure Examination or NCLEX-RN.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
As the present generation retires, there is a significant need for BSNs, resulting in an abundance of work prospects around the United States. The BSN degree is popular among foreign students due to its high job placement rate and competitive remuneration.
Numerous schools and institutions in the United States offer a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program. Some programs culminate with a Clinical Residency to facilitate the transition from student to nurse. This makes it important to choose the institute for pursuing BSN programs carefully.
Many students also opt for Accelerated BSN programs, sometimes referred to as second-degree programs, which include RN to BSN programs. These programs commonly last between 12 to 18 months. Many overseas students love this learning environment despite its competitive nature and rapid speed.
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) & Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs
CRNA and DNP programs are some of the top choices for nursing students. The CRNA curriculum typically lasts between one and two years and instructs students in anesthetic procedures and applying knowledge to clinical issues. On the other hand, programs emphasize research methodologies. Most DNP programs need additional credit hours compared to MSN programs and generally span between 18 and 30 months.
CRNA and DNP-specialized nurses may find some of the highest-paying nursing positions in the United States, which makes it a lucrative option for foreign nursing students in the USA.
What to Expect Pursuing Nursing as a Foreigner
The student experience varies greatly in the United States depending on the institution attended. Culture is often more restrained at community colleges and vocational training institutes. Students at several of these schools range in age from eighteen to eighty.
However, the academic facilities of US colleges and universities are among the best in the world. Studying in the United States provides access to state-of-the-art labs, enormous sports arenas, and extensive libraries.
Typically, college students will either reside on campus or nearby. Many college students have a “work hard, play hard” mentality. Because of the high cost of tuition and the academic rigor of the required courses, many students must also hold down part-time employment.
Keep in mind that nursing education is not for those who lack courage. Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) applicants are often required to complete around 50 credits and 500 clinical hours to graduate from a top nursing school.
Bachelor’s degree applicants are taking longer than ever to graduate, with the majority of nurses needing more than four years to acquire their undergraduate degrees. Because nursing schools are often more credit-intensive, many students feel compelled to accelerate their degrees by concurrently enrolling in many challenging courses. Due to these considerations, overnight shifts are inevitable.
Once you have successfully completed your degree, you can apply for your nursing license. You will require your CES nursing report.
Bottom Line: Know Your Interests & Options!
Although the number of programs for nursing in the USA for foreigners might be daunting, it also allows each student to find the program that best fits their interests.
Before researching the various nursing programs for foreign students in different colleges, you should think about what you value most. Before you know it, you will have your CES nursing report and then your license in hand. Good luck!
