Nurses are often called Registered Nurses because they need a license to work. Nurses are healthcare professionals who provide first-hand care to patients. They assist doctors, take vital signs, dress injuries, administer medicines, and guide patients (and their families) about their condition. They mostly work in hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes, etc.
Should I Become a Nurse in Maine?
| Education Required | A bachelor’s degree |
| Major Requirement | Nursing |
| License/Certification | Become licensed as a Registered Nurse |
| Experience/Training | Completing an internship or doing volunteer work is beneficial |
| Key Skills/Qualities | Patience, Compassion, Communication, Critical-thinking, Stamina, Attention-to-detail, and Problem-solving Skills, etc. |
| Annual Mean Salary (2019) – National | $77,460 (Registered Nurses) |
| Job Outlook (2018-28) | 12% (Much faster than average) |
| Annual Mean Salary (2019) – Maine | $69,760 (Registered Nurses) |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
Career Outlook
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reported in 2019 that 2,982,280 Registered Nurses (RNs) were employed in the US, and 14,490 of those were from the state of Maine. The employment level of Registered Nurses is expected to grow by 12 between 2018 and 2028.
Steps to Become a Nurse in Maine
If becoming a nurse in the state of Maine is your passion, then follow this simple 2 step guide to become a Nurse.
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- Choose the Right Education Path
To become eligible to work as a registered nurse in Maine, you must earn the required education that is a bachelor’s degree in Nursing (BSN). There are 2 options through which this degree can be earned.
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- Complete an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN)
The first way to get to a BSN degree is to complete the 2-year ADN degree. This degree can be earned at a hospital as it combines courses with hands-on experience. After completing this degree, candidates enroll in a 2-year accelerated ADN-to-BSN degree.
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- Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN)
The second way is to enroll directly in a 4-year bachelor’s degree in Nursing (BSN). Several accredited institutions in Maine offer this degree, such as the University of Southern Maine, the University of Maine at Fort Kent, the University of Maine at Orono, and so on.
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- Clear the NCLEX-RN Exam and Get a License
The Board of Nursing in the State of Maine is responsible for issuing a license to all nurses in this state. To become a Registered Nurse, all aspiring candidates must clear the NCLEX-RN exam. After that, they must apply for a license with the State Board to get the status of an RN
How long Does It Take to Become a Nurse in Maine?
A bachelor’s degree in Nursing can be completed in 4 years. The next step is to clear the NCLEX-RN exam and getting licensed as a Registered Nurse which may take approximately a year or so. Therefore, it may take about 5 years or more to become a Registered Nurse in the state of Maine.
What Are the Requirements for Becoming a Nurse in Maine?
To become employed as a Registered Nurse in the state of Maine, all candidates must:
- Complete a Bachelor of Nursing (BSN) degree from an accredited institution
- Clear the NCLEX-RN exam
- Apply for a license with the Maine Board of Nursing
- Get the license to own the status of Registered Nurse (RN)
- Apply for a job and get hired
How Much Does a Nurse Earn in Maine?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that all Registered Nurses employed in the state of Maine in 2019 earned an annual mean salary of $69,760. While California was listed as the highest paying state for this occupation with an annual mean salary of $113,240.