Travel nursing is a fulfilling and rewarding career path that allows nurses to explore different parts of the country while utilizing their skills to care for others. To become a travel nurse, you need to have a nursing degree from an accredited college or university. In this article, we will discuss the best travel nurse colleges that can help you achieve your career goals.
What is a Travel Nurse?
A travel nurse is a licensed nurse who works on a temporary basis in various healthcare facilities across the country. These healthcare facilities can be hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and others. Travel nurses typically work for a contracted period of 13 weeks or longer, and they move from one contract to another, depending on their preferences.
Why Choose a Travel Nurse Career?
Travel nursing offers a wealth of benefits, including higher pay rates, flexibility in scheduling, opportunities to gain new skills, and exposure to different healthcare settings. Travel nurses can also explore new places, meet new people, and develop their professional networks.
Best Travel Nurse Colleges
There are many nursing colleges and universities across the country that offer programs that prepare students for a career in travel nursing. Here are some of the best travel nurse colleges:
College/University | Location |
---|---|
Johns Hopkins University | Baltimore, Maryland |
University of California, San Francisco | San Francisco, California |
Duke University | Durham, North Carolina |
Emory University | Atlanta, Georgia |
University of Pennsylvania | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
What to Look for in a Travel Nurse College?
When choosing a travel nurse college, there are several factors that you should consider. These include:
- Accreditation: Make sure the college or university is accredited by the relevant accrediting agencies.
- Clinical Experience: Look for a program that offers ample clinical experience, as this will prepare you for the demands of travel nursing.
- Faculty Expertise: Check the credentials of the nursing faculty to ensure that they have the necessary experience and expertise to guide you through your program.
- Curriculum: Look for a program that offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers all aspects of nursing practice, including patient care, health promotion, and disease prevention.
- Cost: Consider the cost of the program, including tuition, fees, and living expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about travel nurse colleges:
Q: What degrees do I need to become a travel nurse?
A: To become a travel nurse, you typically need a degree in nursing, such as an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN).
Q: Are travel nursing programs available online?
A: Yes, there are many travel nursing programs available online that allow you to complete your coursework from anywhere.
Q: How long does it take to become a travel nurse?
A: The time it takes to become a travel nurse depends on the degree program you choose. An ADN program typically takes 2-3 years to complete, while a BSN program takes 4-5 years.
Q: Can I become a travel nurse with an ADN degree?
A: Yes, you can become a travel nurse with an ADN degree. However, some travel nursing positions may require a BSN degree.
Conclusion
Travel nursing is an exciting career path that offers many opportunities for personal and professional growth. Choosing the right travel nurse college is essential to your success as a travel nurse. Consider the factors outlined in this article, and do your research to find the best program for you. With the right education and experience, you can embark on a fulfilling and rewarding career as a travel nurse.