BSN Programs in Georgia

The healthcare sector in Georgia is not only growing but booming as well. It provides various career options to those willing to enter this challenging profession by acquiring requisite academic credentials and passing the licensing exam. Career outlook for nurses in the state look positive with expected employment growth in future. The Georgia Department of Labor cites that healthcare and social assistance will lead all industry sectors in terms of new job growth and rate of growth between 2010 and 2020. Healthcare will account for one-fourth of all new jobs created in Georgia through 2020. The nursing schools in the state are therefore prepared to train students to meet the growing demand for the nurses in Georgia.

BSN Programs in Georgia

Offering a range of learning opportunities, Georgia nursing schools enable students to become familiar with safe and effective nursing practices and find out how to care for the sick and injured. Students who want to explore the field of nursing can enroll in BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) programs that generally require 4 years of full-time study but may take longer depending on the enrollment status of students.

Completing BSN degree can be suitable for students interested in taking the registered nurse licensure exam.  Though the associate degree in nursing and diplomas also allow students to earn the title of RN, some employers may specifically require a bachelor’s degree in nursing, as noted by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS also reports that a bachelor's degree or higher is generally essential for administrative, consulting, research, and teaching positions.

What are the roles and responsibilities of RNs?

Registered nurses are healthcare workers who generally work as part of a team with physicians and other healthcare specialists. They are responsible for providing nursing care to patients and also educate them and the public about various health conditions. RNs may also oversee licensed practical nurses, nursing assistants, and home health aides. Some RNs specialize in a particular health condition while others focus on a specific group. In addition to completing approved training programs such as a BSN degree, Georgia nurses must also be licensed to practice.

What courses will you study?

Students in the BSN programs study a variety of subjects and also receive hands on training in clinical settings. Some of the courses may include:

• Nutrition
• Adult and family health
• Healthcare management
• Professional issues in nursing
• Psychiatric nursing
• Anatomy and physiology

The BLS noted that the degree also includes additional education in the physical and social sciences, communication, leadership, and critical thinking.

Financial aid for nursing students in Georgia

Students who wish to enroll in the BSN programs but lack the financial resources to manage the cost of their education may apply for financial aid such as loans, grants, scholarships and more. Only the qualified applicants will be awarded a financial aid package however. Some of the financial assistance programs are:

• Federal Student loans
• Pell Grants
• Georgia Nursing Scholarships and Grants
• Specific Scholarships and Grants in Georgia
• GANA Scholarship
• The Annie Lou Overton Scholarship

Where do Georgia nurses work?

Nurses in the state of Georgia generally work in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics and related healthcare settings. Some are also employed by colleges and universities.