How to Become a School Nurse
The job of School Nurses requires them to help school going children will medical issues they face during school hours. They examine health problems such as stomach aches, injuries or headaches etc. and treat them accordingly.
Should I Become a School Nurse?
Students who experience any kind or injury or health related emergencies during school hours are brought to school nurses. These medical professional then assess the injuries and the type of care that is required. If needed, kids may be sent to the hospital. Nurses administer the required medications and look after the students until they feel better.
| Education Required | Bachelor’s degree at least |
| Major Requirement | Nursing (BSN) |
| License/Certification | Getting licensed as an RN is mandatory |
| Experience/Training | 1,000 to 4,000 hours of school nursing experience is required for certification |
| Key Skills | Compassion, Communication, Patience, Stamina, Critical-thinking, Attention-to-detail and Problem-solving Skills etc. |
| Annual Mean Salary (2019) – National | $77,460 (Registered Nurses) |
| Job Outlook (2018-2028) | 12% (Registered Nurses) |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2019)
Career Outlook
In 2018, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that 3,059,800 Registered Nurses (RNs) were employed all over the US and their numbers are expected to increase by 12% which means there will be approx. 3,431,300 RNs in the US by 2028. Not only that, BLS listed Business Support Services as the highest paying industry for this career with an annual mean salary of $92,200 in 2019.
Steps to Become a School Nurse
If you are interested in becoming a School Nurse, then this guide can help you begin your journey!
1. Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing The first step towards becoming a School Nurse is completion of a bachelor’s degree in Nursing. This may be accomplished by completing a 2-year associate’s degree in nursing and then 2 more years in a bachelor’s of Nursing. Or, a direct 4-year bachelors of Nursing will also do.
2. Completing the Required Work Experience :To work as a School Nurse, it is mandatory to be licensed as a Registered Nurse. To apply for that license, RNs must gain at least 1,000 to 4,000 hours of experience as a School Nurse. This experience can be gained by working as an intern or as a volunteer under the supervision of a Registered Nurse.
3. Getting Licensed as a Registered Nurse :All types of nurses must get licensed in the state they want to work in. The requirements of licensure vary for each type of nurse and from one state to another. To get licensed as a Registered Nurse, School Nurses must clear the NCLEX-RN exam and apply for a license in their state.
How Long Does It Take to Become a School Nurse?
Becoming a School Nurse may take around 5 to 7 years which includes graduating from a bachelor’s degree in Nursing, completing the requirements of work experience and getting licensure as a Registered Nurse. However, this duration may vary for each person since everyone makes different decisions regarding their education and work life. The time may also vary based upon the requirements of the state where they choose to work in.
What Are the Requirements for Becoming a School Nurse?
To be able to work as a School Nurse, you must complete all of the following requirements:
- Complete a bachelor’s degree in Nursing from an accredited institution
- Gain 1,000 to 4,000 hours of school nursing experience (internship or volunteer work)
- Pass the state conducted NCLEX-RN exam
- Apply for the state issued license as a registered nurse
- Get hired as a School Nurse
How Much Can I Make as a School Nurse?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), all School Nurses must be licensed as Registered Nurses and RNs earned an annual mean salary of $77,460 in 2019. Moreover, California was named as the highest paying state for this career with an annual mean salary of $113,240 in 2019.