Even as other parts of the workforce continue to shrink, the health-care sector is thriving. This growth has many reasons, including an aging population and more concern over chronic medical conditions. These factors are likely to continue well into the future. A vocational nursing program is a way to get in on the ground floor of this growing industry.

A Shorter Route to Success

A career as a nurse can be a very rewarding one, but many people do not have the time and the money it takes to earn a degree as a registered nurse right out of high school. Choosing to earn a degree as a licensed vocational nurse instead can be a smart move--and a great way to start earning a living right away. These shorter courses offer many advantages for students, not the least of which is the ability to complete the coursework in only about a year while accumulating less student-loan debt.

A Strong Need for Nurses

The nursing shortage in this country is not limited to registered nurses and nurse practitioners. Licensed vocational nurses and licensed practical nurses are in need, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics projected employment to increase 14 percent from 2006 through 2016. Although not as highly trained as registered nurses, licensed vocational nurses have important duties, and their patients rely on them to be professional and skilled. Licensed vocational nurses run lab tests, take blood, administer medications and record vital signs for the patients under their care. These professionals represent an important part of the health-care chain, and the need for licensed vocational nurses is very strong in today's world.

Growth Opportunity

Becoming a licensed vocational nurse positions you to move up the health-care ladder by pursuing additional training and schooling in the future. In fact, many hospitals and medical providers are willing to provide tuition reimbursement for their vocational nurses, helping them get the advanced degrees they need to move up in their careers.

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Information on vocational nurses

Vocational nursing education