Nurses are in such demand that one university is now offering an accelerated, tuition-free program to help college graduates transition into the field. The Yuma (Arizona) Sun reports that under the program, prospective nurses in southern Arizona who already have bachelors degree in health sciences are eligible. Upon graduation, nurses reportedly agree to spend at least three years working for the nearby Yuma Regional Medical Center. "This program is good for the hospital, too, because they have a guaranteed work force," Vicki Radoye of the University of Arizona told the newspaper, adding that some hospitals can spend up to $75,000 just to recruit an individual nurse. This program is reflective of the nursing shortage being felt in many areas, as well as the opportunities for those interested in such careers. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there should be 587,000 new jobs for registered nurses in the coming years, varying by geographic setting and other factors. Much of the current shortage is also driven by many active nurses approaching retirement age. An increasingly aging population, new technologies and greater emphasis on preventive medicine are also expected to contribute to nursing demand, according to the BLS.  |