Curious about travel nursing career opportunities? This field offers high pay, diverse job settings, and unparalleled flexibility. In this article, we’ll explore top-paying specialties, assignment flexibility, and key benefits to help you decide if a travel nursing career is for you.
Why Consider a Travel Nursing Career?
Why should you consider a travel nursing career? First and foremost, travel nursing jobs offer unique benefits that go beyond those of traditional nursing jobs. One of the most appealing aspects is the ability to explore different locations while earning a living. As a travel nurse, you get paid to live in and experience new places, creating a perfect blend of adventure and career.
Many healthcare professionals find that transitioning into travel nursing allows them to pursue their passion for exploration. This career path offers a balance between work and adventure that is hard to find in permanent nursing jobs or other medical facilities. Imagine working in a bustling emergency room one month and then moving to a tranquil rural hospital the next. Travel nurses bring this variety, which not only keeps the job exciting but also enables you to develop a broader set of skills and experiences across healthcare facilities nationwide. To truly embrace this lifestyle, many nurses choose to become a travel nurse. Travel nurse jobs provide an excellent opportunity for those seeking flexibility, growth, and competitive pay.
Moreover, travel nursing assignments often push nurses beyond their comfort zones, leading to significant personal growth. Working in various medical facilities and with diverse healthcare teams enhances your professional capabilities and enriches your life experiences. Many travel nurses report that the challenges and rewards of travel nursing have made them more adaptable, confident, and skilled in their profession. With each new assignment, you gain valuable insights, expand your resume, and get to search for jobs that align with your goals—all while enjoying the perks of competitive pay and variety.
Top Paying Specialties in Travel Nursing
One of the most compelling reasons to pursue travel nursing jobs is the opportunity to earn great pay, especially in certain specialties. Travel nursing job roles in high-demand areas often come with competitive pay rates and employment opportunities. For instance, specialties like emergency room, labor and delivery, and medical-surgical nursing are among the top earning fields.
Currently, there are 5,877 unique travel nursing jobs available, indicating a strong demand for specialized nursing skills. The weekly pay rates for these positions range from $3,594.84 to $4,141.76, reflecting the high compensation available in many specialty roles. This higher pay not only rewards your specialized skills but also compensates for the flexibility and adaptability required in travel nursing assignments.
Maximizing your earning potential often involves obtaining nationally recognized certifications in your specialty area. These certifications can open doors to higher-paying assignments and make you a more attractive candidate to travel nursing agencies. Whether you’re an experienced nurse looking to switch to a high-demand specialty or a new graduate aiming to specialize, travel nursing offers lucrative opportunities.
Flexibility in Travel Nursing Assignments
Flexibility is a hallmark of travel nursing jobs. Unlike permanent nursing positions, travel nursing assignments can range from as short as two weeks to as long as 26 weeks, providing a wide array of options to suit your lifestyle and career goals. This flexibility allows you to choose assignments that fit your personal and professional needs, whether you’re looking for short-term adventures or longer-term stability.
Short-term assignments are perfect for those who seek quick placements and exposure to various clinical settings. These assignments allow you to gain a wealth of experience in a relatively short period, making you more adaptable and skilled across various healthcare environments, including patient care, alongside other allied health professionals.
Medium-term contracts, lasting from one to six months, offer a balance between variety and consistency, letting you settle into a new job location while still enjoying the excitement of exploring change as part of a team. You can expect to find opportunities that suit your resume needs.
For those who prefer more stability, long-term assignments exceeding six months provide the opportunity to build stronger relationships with healthcare teams and patients. This can be particularly rewarding, as it allows you to make a more significant impact in your temporary community while still experiencing the benefits of travel nursing. The ability to return to previous assignment locations adds another layer of flexibility, giving you the comfort of familiarity with the excitement of new opportunities.
Benefits of Travel Nursing with Davis & Elkins College Programs
Choosing the right educational path is crucial for a successful travel nursing career, and Davis & Elkins College offers programs tailored to meet the needs of aspiring travel nurses. These programs focus on comprehensive clinical training and support, equipping graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in travel nursing assignments.
Davis & Elkins College provides two standout programs: the 100% Online RN to BSN program and the 3-Year Accelerated BSN program. Both are designed to facilitate entry into the travel nursing field by offering flexible and accelerated educational paths. The online RN to BSN program is perfect for working nurses seeking to advance their education without compromising their job commitments, while the accelerated BSN program fast-tracks students through their nursing education, enabling them to enter the workforce sooner.
These programs not only prepare you for the technical aspects of nursing but also instill the adaptability and resilience needed for a successful travel nursing career. With the support of Davis & Elkins College, you can embark on your travel nursing adventure with confidence and competence.
100% Online RN to BSN Program
The 100% Online RN to BSN program at Davis & Elkins College is specifically designed for working nurses, providing the flexibility needed to balance professional responsibilities with educational advancement. This program allows registered nurses to complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) without having to take a break from their travel nursing assignments.
Structured to accommodate the busy schedules of working professionals, the online RN to BSN program promotes flexibility in education. Nurses can take only two courses at a time per 8-week period, making it manageable to pursue a degree while continuing to work. This flexible structure is ideal for travel nurses who need to balance their demanding work schedules with their educational goals.
Moreover, the program’s online format allows you to study from anywhere in the country, making it perfect for travel nurses who are constantly on the move. Whether you’re finishing a shift in a bustling hospital or enjoying a day off in a new city, you can continue your education seamlessly with the 100% Online RN to BSN program at Davis & Elkins College.
3-Year Accelerated BSN Program
Eager to jumpstart your travel nursing career? The 3-Year Accelerated BSN program at Davis & Elkins College offers an excellent option. This program enables students to complete their nursing education in just three years, significantly faster than traditional four-year programs.
The accelerated BSN program is designed to fast-track students through the same rigorous nursing requirements, utilizing summer terms to ensure a comprehensive education in a shorter time frame. By completing your education more quickly, you can enter the travel nursing workforce sooner, gaining valuable experience and starting your travel nursing adventure without delay.
This program is particularly beneficial for those who are passionate about starting their careers as soon as possible. With the 3-Year Accelerated BSN program, you’ll be well-prepared to take on the challenges and rewards of travel nursing, equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in various healthcare settings.
Health Insurance and Other Benefits for Travel Nurses
Health insurance and other benefits are critical considerations for travel nurses. Fortunately, many travel nurse agencies provide comprehensive benefits packages that include health insurance coverage starting on day one of your assignment. This immediate access to healthcare ensures that you can focus on your job without worrying about medical expenses.
However, it’s important to note that health insurance coverage may not extend during breaks taken between travel assignments. Therefore, it’s crucial to plan accordingly and understand the specifics of your health insurance policy. Many travel nurse agencies offer varied medical insurance options, so comparing what different companies provide can help you find the best coverage for your needs.
In addition to health insurance, travel nurses often enjoy other exclusive perks like license reimbursement, 401(k) plans, and housing stipends. These benefits enhance the overall compensation package, making travel nursing a financially rewarding career. Always check with your recruiter to understand your eligibility for these benefits and ensure you have the coverage you need during your travel nursing assignments.
Licensing and Certification Requirements
Navigating the licensing and certification requirements is a crucial step for travel nurses. The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) is a significant advantage, allowing registered nurses to work in multiple states with a single multistate license. As of May 2024, 42 states participate in the NLC, enhancing mobility for travel nurses.
To apply for a compact license, a nurse must have an active license in their home state and pass a federal background check. This compact license simplifies the credentialing process, allowing travel nurses to start assignments faster. However, for those working in non-compact states, it’s necessary to apply for individual licenses in each state, which can lead to significant delays and costs.
Understanding these requirements is essential to ensure a smooth transition into travel nursing. By meeting the necessary educational and licensing requirements specific to your state, you can embark on your travel nursing career with confidence and readiness.
Managing Family Life as a Travel Nurse
Balancing family life with a travel nursing career is entirely possible, though it requires careful planning. Many travel nurses choose to bring their families along on assignments, turning each travel job into a shared adventure. This can be an enriching experience for everyone, offering the chance to explore new places together.
However, traveling with family as a travel nurse does require more planning. From arranging suitable housing to ensuring that family members’ needs are met, careful coordination is key. With thoughtful preparation, you can successfully manage both your professional responsibilities and family life, making the most of your travel nursing adventure.
How to Get Started in Travel Nursing With Davis & Elkins College
Getting started in travel nursing begins with finding a reliable travel nursing recruiter. These recruiters play a crucial role in matching you with suitable travel nursing jobs and assisting with the application process. Networking with other travel nurses and attending job fairs can provide valuable insights into finding the right recruiters and agencies.
When selecting a travel nursing agency, consider their accreditation, reputation, and the variety of job assignments they offer. Davis & Elkins College can help you navigate this process, providing the necessary support and guidance to ensure you find the right fit for your professional goals.
Travel Nursing Career Opportunities
Travel nursing offers a unique blend of professional growth and personal adventure. From high-paying specialties and flexible assignments to comprehensive benefits and support from programs like those at Davis & Elkins College, the opportunities are vast. By pursuing travel nursing, you can expand your skills, explore new locations, and enjoy a rewarding healthcare career.
If you’re ready to embark on this exciting journey, consider enrolling in one of the nursing programs at Davis & Elkins College. With their support, you can achieve your dream of becoming a travel nurse and experience the best that this dynamic career path has to offer.
