The total number of Registered Nurses working in the US in 2019 was 2,982,280. 31,350 of those were employed in the state of Oklahoma. Out of the total 697,510 Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses employed in the US, 12,460 were doing their jobs in Oklahoma. These figures have been obtained from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Should I Become a Nurse in Oklahoma?

If you are thinking about becoming a nurse in Oklahoma, then read the following guide for information on what you need to do to join this profession.

Education Required Different for LPNs and RNs
License/Certification Required
Experience/Training Not compulsory but beneficial.
Key Skills/Qualities Physical Stamina, Patience, Empathy, Observational Skills, etc.
Annual Mean Salary (2019) – National $77,460 (Registered Nurses)$48,500 (Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses)
Job Outlook (2018-28) 12% (Registered Nurses)

11% (Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses)

Annual Mean Salary (2019) – Oklahoma $64,800 (Registered Nurses)

$42,090 (Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses)

Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics

Career Outlook

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics has projected positive career growth for Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses between 2018 and 2028. RNs are expected to enjoy an employment growth rate of 12% whereas LPNs and LVNs are projected to experience an 11% rise in employment opportunities.

Steps to Become a Nurse in Oklahoma

To start your career as a nurse in Oklahoma, you need to complete the following requirements.

    1. Get the Required Education

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is the minimum educational requirement that you need to meet to land a job as a Registered Nurse in the US. For Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses, a postsecondary nondegree award will be good enough.

    1. Sit for and Pass NCLEX

Once the required education has been obtained, you will have to pass the NCLEX to start the licensure process. RNs have to clear the NCLEX-RN whereas Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses have to pass the NCLEX-PN test. You cannot apply for licensure without clearing these exams.

    1. Apply for License

Once you have completed the requirements mentioned above, you can start your licensure process. You will have to apply to the relevant state licensing authority or board. You will also have to pass a background check and submit fingerprints. Once you have cleared these last few hurdles, you will be given your license.

    1. Apply for Jobs

With your nursing license in hand, you can start applying for jobs straight away. Getting a job might take some time, so patience is key.

How long Does It Take to Become a Nurse in Oklahoma?

It takes around 1 to 2 years to become a Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurse. The duration to become a Registered Nurse however is longer, mainly because of the educational requirements. It can take anywhere between 4 to 6 years to become an RN in the US.

What Are the Requirements for Becoming a Nurse in Oklahoma?

The following steps need to be completed to become a nurse in Oklahoma

  • Get the necessary education
  • Clear the NCLEX
  • Apply for licensure and clear the required steps
  • Apply for a job

How Much Does a Nurse Earn in Oklahoma?

As per the figures provided by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses working in Oklahoma earned $42,090 as annual mean income in 2019. Registered Nurses made $64,800 in annual mean income in Oklahoma in 2019. Both figures were lower than their corresponding national annual mean incomes.

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