When it comes to hot career fields, you can't do much better than nursing. Nursing is the occupation with the second largest projected job growth in the nation, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. To become a registered nurse, you need to pass the National Council of State Boards of Nursing Examination (NCLEX-RN), and a two-year associate degree prepares you to do that -- especially one from Waubonsee. Our nursing graduates routinely pass the exam with flying colors; in 2005, 96 percent were successful -- that's nine points higher than the national average.

Working While You Wait

While you're taking nursing prerequisites or waiting to enter the program, you may want to consider expanding your experience and knowledge by enrolling in one of our short-term health care programs, such as emergency medical technician, phlebotomy technician or nurse assistant.

• Are you a former nurse looking to get back into the field? Waubonsee’s Workforce Development department offers the Current Nursing Practice Update/RN Refresher course. Call (630) 906-4231 or e-mail cvoirin@waubonsee.edu.

• After earning your associate degree at Waubonsee, you may want to go on to earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing. You can do that close to home thanks to our partnership with Northern Illinois University (NIU).