If you are a vocational nurse, or thinking of becoming one, you will be happy to know that there is a great demand for nurses and there are many ways to increase your LVN salary – even into six figures. In 2011, it was estimated that the average LVN salary in California was close to $50,000 per year (per www.BLS.gov). Not a bad wage for this economy and the best part is that new positions for LVNs are projected to grow well ahead of the national average in the coming years.
Ways to Increase Your LVN Salary
Additional Education
Like any profession, additional education usually equals more income. After being certified as an LVN you may want to get your associates degree and become a Registered Nurse through an LVN to RN bridge program. You can also choose to get your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). This could also allow you to get a better job and salary.
Getting your BSN usually takes about four years. If you already have your associate’s degree in nursing and your RN license, it will only take one to two more years of education. This additional education can easily be completed online around an established work schedule.
By getting your masters, you will have the opportunity to specialize in a specific area of nursing that interests you. You may want to become a nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, nurse anesthetist, or nurse midwife.
In May 2011, the Bureau of Labor Statistics found that 90% of Registered Nurses who specialized in various medical fields earned $96,630 a year. This number alone proves additional education can definitely be worth the extra effort.
Geographic Location
If an LVN wants to increase their salary and prefers to not continue their education, they can simply move to another state or area within their state. By relocating to areas closer to large metropolitan areas such as Los Angeles, California, Rochester, Minnesota and Johnstown, Pennsylvania an LVN has the opportunity to increase their salary. LVNs in these areas may earn anywhere from 5%-20% more than LVNs in other areas. Before relocating make sure you take into account the other variables involved in the prospective job opportunity. For example, in many metropolitan areas living expenses are higher, so an increase in salary would go toward living expenses. In addition, many job opportunities in metropolitan areas are very competitive due to the high salary ranges.
Specialize
If you are open to additional education, a sure way to increase your LVN salary is to do both, specialize and be open to working in new location. For example, in San Jose, California, an RN who has a master’s or bachelor’s degree can earn up to $104,400 a year (www.BLS.gov). Some other areas which pay registered nurses well are Massachusetts, Hawaii, Maryland and New York.
Growing Your LVN Salary Over Time
So, it is clear to see the nursing profession has room to grow. Graduation does not necessarily mean a guaranteed job or salary increase, but it certainly does stack the odds in your favor. If you are looking for a profession which grows with you, you can be sure there are many ways to increase an LVN salary throughout their professional life.
Recommended LVN Programs in California!
Programs:
- Licensed Vocational Nurse
- Certified Nursing Assistant
Capella is an accredited, online university where you'll experience unparalleled support, join a community of accomplished professionals, and be challenged with rigorous academics. Learn more about our online doctoral, master’s, MBA, undergraduate, and certificate programs by answer a short form.
Programs:
- MSN - General Nursing (CCNE-accredited)
- MSN - RN-to-MSN General Nursing (CCNE-accredited)
- MSN - RN-to-MSN Gerontology Nursing
- And more...
American Career College (ACC) offers hands-on training that will prepare students for careers in the healthcare industry at three campuses in Los Angeles, Ontario, and Orange County, California. ACC's programs combine classroom lectures and hands-on training to prepare students for a Diploma or Associate of Occupational Science degree.
Programs:
- Vocational Nursing
- Medical Assistant
Programs:
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Programs:
- AS in Vocational Nursing
- Certificate in Vocational Nursing
- Certificate in Medical Assisting
- And more...
Programs:
- Vocational Nursing
- Medical Assistant
For over 35 years, Keiser University has provided student-centered, quality career education. Keiser University Online offers degree programs online to prepare students for in-demand professions.
Programs:
- Nursing, MS
- Medical Assisting, AS (Online)
You can prepare for a new career with help from Charter College. Our accelerated Bachelors Degree, Associates Degree, and Certificate programs are designed to help you complete your education as quickly as possible. We offer year-round classes and flexible scheduling - study anytime from anywhere. We provide students not only with the technical skills necessary for success, but also job search and placement assistance so you can find new opportunities after graduation.
Programs:
- Diploma - Vocational Nursing
- Diploma - Medical Assistant
- Certificate - Medical Assistant
Pursue your education with The University of Texas Arlington. We offer a number of certificate, bachelors, and master's degree programs in the fields of education and nursing, plus general education courses for bachelor's degree completion.
Programs:
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Explore a new career with Concorde Career College. We offer short-term programs in the fields of allied health, massage therapy, and nursing, including medical assisting, medical office administration, respiratory therapy, surgical technology, pharmacy technician, physical therapy assisting, occupational therapy assisting, practical nursing, vocational nursing, nursing bridge, dental assisting, and dental hygiene. Our focus is on hands-on skill-building, so you get real-life training and experience. We have 15 campuses located in and around major metro areas throughout California, Colorado, Florida, Missouri, Oregon, Tennessee, and Texas.
Programs:
- Vocational Nursing
- Vocational Nurse
- Medical Assistant
- And more...
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