Can You Work While in Nursing School?

'Can you work while in nursing school?' is a question that aspiring nursing students must individually answer based on:

• time management skills
• financial needs
• hard work
• dedication

While it is possible to achieve a Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) while working, it is not easy. Even though juggling work and school is not easy, there are reasons for working while in a nursing program. For instance, financial aid and student loans do not always cover all college expenses, and paying for nursing school may require students to work.

Students also work while in nursing school for personal and family obligations and to gain experience in the healthcare field. Students can work while in nursing school, but it is imperative to have outstanding academic behaviors and routine self-care.

Is It Possible To Work While Attending Nursing School?

Colleges and universities have become more flexible in how they deliver BSN degree programs, and it is possible to work while in nursing school with online, hybrid, and in-person evening and weekend program options. Nursing students with full-time jobs may have more difficulty committing to nursing school full-time due to the rigorous coursework and clinical rotations. It is important to choose a BSN program that fits your needs.

Top Jobs for Nursing Students

The top jobs for nursing students are part-time positions in healthcare and medical environments. Part-time jobs are more reasonable for full-time students in nursing school.

EKG Technician

An EKG technician position provides experience in healthcare facilities and supporting nurses. While EKG technicians typically work long hours, a part-time EKG technician may only work weekends or a few days.

EKG technicians perform similar duties to nurses, though they do not have as much training as registered nurses. EKG technicians monitor heart performance and blood pressure readings for cardiovascular patients.

Phlebotomist

Drawing blood part-time as a phlebotomist correlates with nursing education and is a perfect role for practice in providing patient care. Part-time phlebotomists work 5 to 10 hours for two to three days.

Working part-time as a phlebotomist can benefit your nursing studies. It develops skills that can easily transfer to a nursing career.

Lab Assistant

A laboratory assistant is another medical profession for nursing students. Lab assistants prepare testing samples and assist scientific professionals with medical research projects.

Additionally, lab assistants understand how to use medical equipment such as a microscope. They possess skills in communication and diligence that nursing careers require.

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

The training that EMTs receive benefits a nursing education. EMTs administer medical care to patients at the emergency site and on the way to receiving emergency care.

Nursing school builds on EMTs' knowledge and experiences. Furthermore, nursing school strengthens the following skills:

• communication skills
• interpersonal skills
• problem-solving skills

Patient Sitter

Patient sitters enhance interpersonal skills and gain nursing knowledge in a nursing program. Their job is to observe and monitor care for patients under the supervision of an RN.

Working under the supervision of an RN gives patient sitters experience in providing high-quality patient care. Part-time patient sitters may work when needed making it easier to balance work and school.

Nursing Assistant

A part-time job as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) gives nursing students experience caring for patients in an entry-level nursing role. A nursing assistant serves meals, bathes patients, and measures vital signs.

Nursing assistants strengthen their credentials by earning a nursing degree. CNAs attend nursing school to advance their career and education.

Tips for Working During Nursing School

Students who work during nursing school must balance work, education, and other life activities. We provide tips for nursing students who work while completing their degree below.

• get plenty of rest for your mental health and maintain a steady study schedule
• create a schedule to manage responsibilities. A schedule helps students manage their time wisely
• create or join a study group for support and enhance your learning experience
• set small goals that are attainable but challenging to stay confident in your studies
• rely on your support system to prevent burnout. Go out with family and friends and ask them for help with studying or with responsibilities such as cleaning or babysitting

FAQs About Working While Attending Nursing School

Earning a nursing degree while working a job is necessary for some students. We discuss more about working while attending nursing school in the FAQs below.

Is It Possible To Work Full-Time While in Nursing School?

It is possible to work full-time while in nursing school. However, many nursing graduates found it difficult to juggle multiple responsibilities. Working full-time while attending nursing school is not recommended unless it is necessary.

Should I Work While in Nursing School?

A nursing student should work while in nursing school if they examine their personal, professional, and financial obligations and determine that working while in nursing school is worth it.

Is It Common for Nursing Students To Have a Job?

It is common for nursing students to have a job. Data from a 2022 National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses (NSSRN) reports that more than 70% of RNs were employed in health-related jobs before completing nursing school.

What Are Some Ways To Manage Work and Nursing School?

Nursing students can manage work and nursing school by creating a schedule for study time, a work schedule, and downtime. Nursing school and work are also manageable with a support system.

Family members, friends, and academic advisors are examples of people in a support system. Support systems are important for:

• getting rest
• meeting educational goals
• studying