For our 2024 rankings of prelicensure BSN programs, the research team at Nursing Schools Almanac compiled an extensive database of student performance on the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Aspiring registered nurses in the United States must pass this examination before they may commence practice. Thus, student performance on the NCLEX-RN exam provides an excellent benchmark for comparing the relative quality of bachelor’s degree programs.

For our 2024 rankings of ADN programs, the research team at Nursing Schools Almanac compiled an extensive database of student performance on the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Aspiring registered nurses in the United States must pass this examination before they may commence practice. Thus, student performance on the NCLEX-RN exam provides an excellent benchmark for comparing the relative quality of associate’s degree programs.

For our 2024 rankings of LPN programs, the research team at Nursing Schools Almanac compiled an extensive database of student performance on the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). Aspiring practical nurses in the United States must pass this examination before they may commence practice. Thus, student performance on the NCLEX-PN exam provides an excellent benchmark for comparing the relative quality of practical nursing programs.

To find a job in the healthcare industry today, you must have a solid education. Most major employers are looking for registered nurses (RNs) who have bachelor’s degrees rather than associate’s degrees. Though bachelor’s degrees require a four-year commitment as opposed to two-year associate’s degrees, the extra education makes you more attractive to prospective employers and sets you up for greater earning potential in the future.

The Washington, DC, area maintains a high demand for nurses, particularly registered nurses (RNs). These nurses take on responsibilities that typically require a greater level of technical expertise than the more basic nursing duties of bathing patients or changing bandages. As a result, salaries tend to be higher as well: the median pay for RNs in the DC area is $76,310. Some RNs earn even higher salaries, up to as much as $89,000 or more. Over 11,000 people are employed as nurses in the city, and pursuing the right degree can land you in this lucrative career field.

If you enjoy taking care of others, becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN) could be the perfect career for you. As an LPN, you would provide basic personal care for patients, assisting them with tasks like bathing, dressing, and eating. You would also provide basic medical care under the supervision of registered nurses and doctors, taking samples for tests, checking vital signs, and observing patients for symptoms. Additional tasks include changing bedding and bandages as well as giving medication to patients as needed.

Louisiana colleges have a wide selection of accredited nursing programs, offering opportunities from specialty degrees to a master’s degree in registered nursing. Many Louisiana universities offer bachelor's degrees in registered nursing, one of the most popular career paths in the state; there are more than 40,000 registered nurses (RNs) statewide, earning a median wage of $60,380 annually.