Whew! Lots of question on travel nursing and the future

hey Conrad!
i have a question concerning graduation of the nursing program and the job
opportunities in years to come. I’m a 21 year old male and i will have
earned my bsn in 2 years. i was wondering if you think the job
opportunities will still be there around then –will the need for nurses
fall given the economy and fluctuation of people getting into the
profession? Also, given the idea that travel nursing is in fact dream job,
I’ve always wanted to get my MSN to peak my knowledge of the potential work
i desire..however, i’ve been told that the difference isn’t that
significant. any truth to this? sorry for all of the questions but i’d
greatly appreciate some feedback. Thanks a lot, and I hope to talk to you
soon.

TJ

Hi TJ. Thanks for your interest and congratulations on your progress to date. Nursing jobs will not only be available by the time you graduate, they will be more abundant then ever. The fact is, the Baby Boom generation is entering retirement age (and increased usage of the health care system). Additionally a lot of current nurses happen to BE in that generation and will be retiring. Finally, lots of states are implementing tougher nursing ratio laws and combining that with the already existing shortage will simply exacerbate the situation. Projections I have seen indicate the nursing shortage will continue for the next 20-30 years at least.

That may be bad for the health care system but it is good for your prospects as a nurse and implies that the salary and benefit situation will be excellent for you.

Good economy or bad economy, nursing simply cannot go away. You’ve made a solid career choice in my opinion.

As for travel nursing (your dream job choice) and your MSN, I’m not sure that will do much to improve your chances. Having a BSN and your RN designation coupled with a year or two of experience will be just fine to get you a travel nursing job. Most travel nursing opportunities do not require a BSN, in fact, but it sure is a deal sweetener when you are talking to the facility.

Keep us posted on your progress and if you are looking for a travel nursing job, check out my websites TravelNursingUSA, Nursetown and AAAtravelnuring. You may also want to subscribe to my newsletter which comes by email each week and lists lots of new travel nursing jobs.

Thanks for the question.

Conrad