You have decided to return to nursing school. You’ve researched and researched, and you have discovered there are Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs in Tennessee that let you build off of your prior education so you can earn your nursing license sooner.
But there are a lot of these second degree programs throughout the country. You’re comfortable relocating, but which location is the best for you and your needs?
When you consider which cities you are willing to move to, it’s important to ask yourself a few questions:
- Will I be able to find a job in this city after I graduate?
- Can I afford this city?
- Will I be entertained living in this city?
By choosing Marian University’s Accelerated BSN program in Nashville, you will find everything you’re looking for in a nursing school and city.
The Nursing Shortage in Tennessee Means Job Openings for RNs
If you are considering moving for a nursing program, it’s important to think about the career prospects available in the cities you are looking at.
In Nashville, much like the rest of Tennessee (and the US), there is a severe nursing shortage caused by aging and retiring baby-boomers, increased access to health insurance, and advances in health care that extend the average life span.
But how does a nursing shortage in Tennessee really affect you as a nursing student?
Because of the nursing shortage, hospitals, clinics, and other health care facilities have openings for baccalaureate-educated registered nurses. Once you earn your Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Marian University, you can sit for the NCLEX-RN and become a professional nurse.
Completing your BSN through Marian University has its benefits.
Marian University has a unique relationship with St. Thomas Health networks in Nashville. Marian University’s Accelerated BSN program is located inside St. Thomas West hospital, where students will complete skills labs and clinical experiences. Clinical experiences will also take place at other St. Thomas Health locations throughout Nashville and middle Tennessee.
By completing your clinicals within these highly respected hospitals, you are able to build up a professional network and get an idea of areas you can seek employment upon graduation.
What nursing field can I enter?
The nursing shortage throughout the country is affecting many different nursing fields, so your opportunities are not limited.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for nurse midwives, nurse anesthetists, and nurse practitioners is expected to rise 45 percent by 2029. If you are interested in earning a master’s degree, PhD, or any other advanced education in nursing, you will have time to earn your degree and find a job.
Additionally, nurse educators are highly sought after.
But there’s more to your decision to relocate than future prospects. It’s also important to consider cost of living and whether you will enjoy life in Nashville.
Low Cost of Living Makes Nashville Affordable
Nashville’s low cost of living means you can afford to live and work in and around Nashville while in nursing school in the ABSN program and after you graduate and begin your nursing career.
The cost of living in Nashville is 28.2 percent lower than New York City in terms of consumer prices.
By using a cost-of-living calculator, you can determine how your spending will change when you relocate to Nashville to get a better idea of your monthly budget.
Nashville Offers Something for Everyone
Although it is called Music City, Nashville has a lot more to offer than country music, including:
- Visiting art museums and galleries
- Take historical tours
- Enjoying outdoor adventures
- Concerts and other events
Museums and Galleries
If you’re of an artistic mindset, you can explore Nashville’s many museums and galleries. These include:
- The Frist Center for the Visual Arts
- The Parthenon
- LeQuire Gallery
- Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art
Historical Tours
For those who love learning about history, Nashville is full of historical sites and tours. You can visit the Belle Meade Plantation, explore over 1,000 acres at President Andrew Jackson’s home, and visit Fort Negley, where you can learn about the Civil War.
Explore the Outdoors
At the Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art, you can enjoy 55 acres of gardens and trails. You can also go kayaking at Nashville Shores, rent some jet skis, or hop on some zip lines.
Music City
It’s not called “Music City” for nothing. Whether you want to listen to some good old-fashioned country or find the next up-and-coming rock, country, or alternative star, you will always find a live show in Nashville.
Nashville isn’t home to just country music, though. Some of the most well-known music artists have recorded albums in this historic city, including:
- Elvis Presley
- Kings of Leon
- The Raconteurs
- Kid Rock
- The Black Keys
- Kelly Clarkson
- RUSH, and
- Ed Sheeran
Nashville's great theaters mean wonderful performances from your favorite artists. You are sure to find some favorite new activity in Music City.
Do you want to learn more about Marian University’s Accelerated BSN program, life in Nashville, or what you can expect from life as a nursing student? Speak to an admissions advisor today.