Nursing Schools in Alabama

Located in the southeastern region of the U.S., the state of Alabama is recognized for its history, industry and educational opportunities. Agriculture, healthcare, manufacturing and automotive are some of the industries in Alabama that have considerably grown during the recent times. Those of you who are interested in studying in Alabama can choose from a variety of learning options. There are a number of nursing schools in Alabama that enable students to acquire in demand skills and prepare them to manage the growing needs of the healthcare industry.

Nursing schools in Alabama

Ranging from the associate to doctoral degrees, Alabama nursing schools offer a variety of programs that give students an opportunity to explore the nursing practice. Students acquire the knowledge and skills that may prepare them to look after patients in a number of healthcare settings and perform administrative tasks.

Nursing programs

Students can enroll in an associate or bachelor’s degree in nursing, and after graduation qualify to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Registered nurses (RNs) provide basic nursing care to patients and also offer them advice on health conditions. In addition to completing an undergraduate degree, aspiring RNs in Alabama also need to obtain a license from the state board of nursing.

Advanced nursing programs

Other than the undergraduate programs, the master’s and PhD degrees are also offered at Alabama nursing schools that prepare students for advanced nursing roles.

LPN programs

Nursing schools in the state of Alabama also offer LPN programs. LPNs (licensed practical nurses) work under the supervision of RNs and provide basic healthcare assistance to patients.

What courses are included in the nursing programs?

Students in nursing programs are provided with both classroom instruction as well as hands-on trainings in hospitals, clinics or other healthcare settings. A variety of topics are covered in the nursing programs such as:

• Adult and family health
• Pharmacology
• Anatomy and physiology
• Community health
• Leadership in nursing

In addition to the core courses, students may also complete leadership and management courses that enable them to develop administrative and leadership skills. The advanced programs such as the master’s degree in nursing may also include instruction in areas such as nursing research and other professional issues in nursing.

Many nursing students in Alabama may not be able to afford to pay for the cost of their education. But that does not mean they cannot pursue a nursing program. A variety of financial aid programs are available for eligible students through which they may pay for their educational expenses. Grants, scholarships and student loans are some of the financial assistance options open to those who qualify.  They may apply for financial aid programs such as:

• Alabama Nursing Scholarship Program
• Baptist Health System Nursing Loan / Scholarship Program
• Barbara Ingalls Shook Foundation Scholarship

How much do Nurses make in Alabama?

Alabama students who complete nursing programs generally apply for work in hospitals, nursing home and related settings. Some may also apply for positions in colleges and universities. Registered nurses in Alabama in 2013 earned a median annual salary of $54,500 or $26.20 per hour. RNs nationally earned a median annual income of $66,220 or $31.84 per hour, in 2013. See comparison chart: