There are many institutions in Orlando that aspiring nurses can attend. It is therefore crucial to understand the different pathways available for a nursing career.
Certified nursing assistant
There are around 7,830 certified nursing assistants (CNAs) in the Orlando area. Although a CNA holds an entry-level position, the job nevertheless requires a certain degree of responsibility and calls for excellent interpersonal skills. Students who wish to attend a CNA program but are tight in cash can apply to public higher education institutions such as Orlando Tech.
Becoming certified as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) can open the door to an array of employment opportunities, such as hospitals and correctional facilities. Those interested in attending an LPN program may be eligible for Florida’s Nursing Student Loan Forgiveness Program, created to encourage qualified nurses to seek employment in state areas where there is a critical shortage of nursing employees. LPNs working in Orlando have a median income of $39,630.
Registered nurse
A career as a registered nurse (RN) can allow students to work under a variety of employers, both within and beyond the traditional healthcare industry. Current LPNs may wish to enroll in an associate of science in nursing degree program, which qualifies them to work as RNs. Valencia College also offers a generic track, from which students can enroll in one of Florida’s public universities to complete a four-year bachelor’s degree in nursing.
Below is a full list of nursing schools in Orlando, Florida, to help you choose the right nursing program.
