Graduate Nursing vs Licensed Vocational Nurse
Key Points:
- Graduate Nurses have more advanced clinical duties, while Licensed Vocational Nurses focus on basic patient care.
- Graduate Nurses typically earn higher salaries than Licensed Vocational Nurses.
- Both nursing roles are in high demand.
- Graduate Nurses require a master's degree, while Licensed Vocational Nurses complete a shorter, vocational-level program.
- Graduate Nursing programs are more expensive and take longer to complete than Licensed Vocational Nurse training.
Nursing is a rewarding career choice that offers a range of opportunities for those who are passionate about helping others. Whether you choose to become a graduate nurse or a licensed vocational nurse, you will play a vital role in caring for patients and promoting their well-being. However, it's important to understand the distinctions between these two paths to ensure you choose the one that aligns with your career goals and aspirations.
Graduate Nursing Education and Training
To become a graduate nurse, you must complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or higher degree in nursing. This typically takes four years to complete and includes coursework in areas such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and nursing theory. In addition to classroom instruction, graduate nursing programs also require students to complete clinical rotations, where they gain hands-on experience providing patient care in a variety of healthcare settings.
Licensed Vocational Nurse Education and Training
To become a licensed vocational nurse, you must complete a practical nursing program, which can be completed in about one year. Practical nursing programs are offered by vocational schools, community colleges, and some hospitals. These programs include both classroom instruction and clinical rotations, where students learn the practical skills necessary to provide basic patient care.
Graduate Nursing vs Licensed Vocational Nurse: Career Outlook and Salary
When considering a career in nursing, it's important to understand the career outlook and salary potential for each role. Here's what you can expect:
Graduate Nursing Career Outlook and Salary
The demand for registered nurses is projected to grow by 7% from 2019 to 2029, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This growth is faster than the average for all occupations and is driven by factors such as an aging population and increased access to healthcare services. In terms of salary, the median annual wage for registered nurses was $75,330 in May 2020.
Licensed Vocational Nurse Career Outlook and Salary
The demand for licensed vocational nurses is also projected to grow, albeit at a slightly slower pace than registered nurses. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 9% growth rate for licensed vocational nurses from 2019 to 2029. The median annual wage for licensed vocational nurses was $47,480 in May 2020.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between a career as a graduate nurse or a licensed vocational nurse is a personal decision that should be based on your interests, goals, and aspirations. Both paths offer rewarding opportunities to make a difference in the lives of others. Consider your desired level of responsibility, scope of practice, and educational requirements when making your decision. Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose a career path that aligns with your passion for nursing and your desire to provide quality patient care.
Dreambound's educational programs open doors to exciting opportunities. For a more comprehensive understanding of the potential within these two vocations, we invite you to explore further details by visiting:
