Today, there is a great need for registered nurses, and that need is only expected to increase in the coming years. One recent study estimates that by 2020 the United States will face a shortfall of 800,000 nurses. Imagine, in 13 years there will be 800,000 unfilled nursing jobs.

To encourage more students to enter the nursing field many schools and organizations now offer nursing scholarships. For example, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers full tuition and a stipend to nurses that commit two years service to a health care facility with urgent shortage. High demand means good wages. According to one survey, the median income for nurses is on par with that of accountants.

Nursing scholarships are, of course, offered by colleges and universities. More frequently though, outside health care groups are offering scholarships to nursing students. Nursing scholarships are awarded by non-profit health care groups and alliances as well as for-profit companies like Johnson & Johnson.

The countrywide nurse shortage has highlighted the industrys already pressing need for minority and male nurses. Male and minority nurses are hot commodities, and the nursing scholarships available reflect this trend. There are scholarships set up specifically for males and minorities entering nursing school. Again, these scholarships are awarded by companies and non-profit groups. While some are need and merit based, others are given out as carrots: Encouragement for these two sought-after groups to study nursing.

If money is the only object keeping you away from nursing school it should no longer be a hurdle. Start looking today for nursing scholarships and you will find a wealth of financial aid available. The only way the nursing shortage will be reduced is by more students enrolling in proper training programs. What better way to encourage future nurses than by providing them with nursing scholarships.

When not writing about college admissions and college life Veronica Krully enjoys spending time with her family and supporting the local college. She is an avid swimmer and runner.

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