U.S. Healthcare Landscape: Opportunities for International Nurses

The U.S. healthcare sector is experiencing significant growth, with expenditures surpassing $4.5 trillion in 2023, accounting for approximately 18.3% of the national GDP. This expansion is propelled by an aging population, technological advancements, and a heightened need for specialized care. Consequently, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates a 6% increase in nursing positions from 2022 to 2032, translating to over 193,000 job openings annually.

The COVID-19 pandemic intensified existing nursing shortages, leading to increased burnout and early retirements. Projections indicate that the U.S. will require more than 1 million new nurses by 2030 to meet healthcare demands. This scenario creates a favorable environment for international nurses seeking educational advancement and employment opportunities in the U.S.

Advantages of Pursuing Nursing in the U.S.

Nurses in the U.S. benefit from competitive salaries and diverse career opportunities. As of 2023, the median annual wage for registered nurses stands at $86,070, with experienced RNs in states like California, Hawaii, and Oregon earning over $100,000 annually. In contrast, average RN salaries in countries like the UK and Australia range between $40,000–$60,000 USD annually.

Beyond financial incentives, the U.S. offers a dynamic healthcare environment, access to cutting-edge medical technologies, and a variety of specialization options. International students can leverage programs that combine academic learning with practical experience, facilitating a smoother transition into the U.S. healthcare system.

Ottawa University's MSN Program with Day 1 CPT

Ottawa University offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in Nurse Leadership, designed for registered nurses aiming to advance their careers. The program features:

• Day 1 CPT Eligibility: Allows international students to engage in practical training from the start of the program.

• Flexible Format: Hybrid structure with online coursework and minimal on-campus requirements—one weekend per semester.

• Accelerated Completion: The 42-credit program can be completed in 24 months.

• Affordable Tuition: Each semester costs $5,370, making it financially accessible.

• Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

This program is ideal for international students seeking to gain leadership skills in nursing while obtaining practical experience in the U.S. healthcare system through CPT from day 1 of the program.

Other Healthcare-Related Programs at Ottawa, Texas Wesleyan, and Harrisburg Universities

Ottawa University

• EMBA with Health Care Management Concentration: A 2-year hybrid program that prepares students for leadership roles in healthcare administration. This program is a great option for international nurses who may not meet the requirements of the MSN program, such as not having a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), but have obtained their RN and can work as a nurse in the USA.

This program includes CPT from day 1 of the program as well as a flexible schedule with on-campus classes, 1 weekend per semester at any Ottawa campus.

Texas Wesleyan University

• MBA with Healthcare Administration Concentration: Designed for students aiming for careers in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and other health professions, providing advanced knowledge and guidance for aspiring managers and administrators.

The program includes CPT from day 1 of the program and on-campus classes 1 weekend per semester. Texas Wesleyan is a popular choice for international students do to its campus located in Fort Worth, Texas.

Harrisburg University

• Master of Science in Healthcare Informatics: This program equips clinicians with skills in technology and change management to improve healthcare IT systems.

• Master of Science in Nursing: A 36-semester-hour program focusing on evidence-based practices, quality improvement, and nursing education.

  
  

These programs across Ottawa University, Texas Wesleyan University, and Harrisburg University provide diverse opportunities for international students to pursue careers in various healthcare sectors, combining academic excellence with practical experience.

If you are a nurse interested in continuing your career in the US, apply today for the MSN or Healthcare program with CPT.