Representing the largest healthcare occupation, nearly 2.2 million nurses were employed in 2000. Almost 1 in 10 RNs held more than one job that same year. Nearly 3 out of 5 jobs were in hospitals in both inpatient and outpatient departments. Others were in physicians's offices and clinics,home healthcare agencies, nursing homes, temporary help agencies, schools, and government agencies. The remainder worked in residential care facilities, social service agencies, religious organizations, research facilities, insurance agencies, and in private households.

Job opportunities for RNs continue to be very good. In fact, employment of registered nurses is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2010. Thousands of openings will result as experienced nurses leave the occupation, particularly as the median age of the registered nurse population continues to rise. Median annual earnings in industries employing the greatest number of registered nurses in 2000 was $44,840.

• Nursing Application
• Nursing Plan of Study Requirements