Nursing Schools in Tennessee

Select a program of interest to find schools:

• CNA Training Programs in Tennessee
• LPN Programs in Tennessee
• Associate’s Nursing Degrees (ADN) in Tennessee
• Baccalaureate Nursing Degrees (BSN) in Tennessee
• RN to BSN Programs in Tennessee
• RN to MSN Programs in Tennessee
• Master’s Nursing Programs in Tennessee
• Nurse Practitioner Programs in Tennessee
• DNP Programs in Tennessee
• Featured Nursing Schools in Tennessee

A study looking at the supply and demand for the nursing profession in Tennessee conducted by the Tennessee Hospital Association predicts that there will be a shortage of around 9,000 nurses in Tennessee by the year 2020. The Tennessee Department of Health and Human Services have released a more daunting number, stating a shortage of 36,305 nurses in the state by 2020!

Based on these findings, this means there is a great opportunity here for those interested in pursuing nursing as a career. It all begins with finding the right nursing program. It is critical to find a program approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing as a Practical Nurse or a Registered Nurse to be eligible for state licensure. To become a Certified Nurse Aide you must complete a Nurse Aide training that has been approved by the State of Tennessee Department of Health.

Organizations such as the Tennessee Center for Nursing, the Southern Regional Education Board, the Tennessee Board of Nursing and the Tennessee Hospital Association have been involved in developing solutions to the nursing faculty and nurse shortage in the state. Some proven strategies they are working on include filling the vacant faculty positions, developing new nursing programs and locating additional clinical sites. These strategies in turn are opening up additional spots at entry to nursing programs throughout the state of Tennessee. Explore more information regarding how to become a Nurse in Tennessee.

Online Nursing Schools in Tennessee

This is also an opportunity for registered nurses to seek an advanced nursing degree and pursue their career goals while not leaving their current professional nursing roles. Online RN to BSN and MSN programs have opened the doors to virtually any nursing professional desiring career ladder mobility whether they are located in rural Tennessee or in urban areas. Online nursing programs offer opportunity and flexibility. Online programs also allow more nurses to stay in the state of Tennessee, especially those in rural areas who may be considering leaving the state to attend a school offering a program of particular interest.

Tennessee Nursing Job Outlook and Salary Information 

The job outlook for new nurses is very good in Tennessee with many jobs offering sign on bonuses and flexible work schedules. For those nurses holding advanced degrees in nursing the job outlook is even better, higher salaries, supervisor positions and opportunities to pursue an educator role or practitioner role. There has not been a better time to start or advance your nursing career in Tennessee.

According to the Tennessee Department of Labor January, 2009 salary report, the average annual salary for a registered nurse (RN) was $53.980 (based on a 40 hour work week) and the average annual salary for an LPN was $34,020. In Chattanooga, TN the average annual salary for an RN is $48,030. As you can see, an advanced degree in nursing can significantly up your earnings. These numbers will vary depending on experience, location and specialization. According to indeed.com, as of 2/28/11, the average annual salary for RN job postings in the state of Tennessee was $67,000. Salaries will depend highly on location, facility, education and experience.

Campus Based Nursing Schools in TN

University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix offers accredited nursing degree programs at campuses nationwide including the following Tennessee cities: Chattanooga, Memphis, Franklin, and Nashville. The RN to BSN program offered at the Nashville location is approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing. Request information from University of Phoenix School to learn more.

Associate’s Nursing Degree (ADN) Programs in Tennessee

(Source: Tennessee Board of Nursing)

Baccalaureate (BSN) Programs Approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing

(Sources: Tennessee Board of Nursing, Projection of Supply and Demand for Nurses in Tennessee: 2002-2020 – Tennessee Center for Nursing and the Tennessee Hospital Association, July, 2001)

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