At TSNA, we strive to organize, represent, and communicate with students who are preparing for initial Licensure as Registered Nurses through diploma, associate degree or baccalaureate degree programs. As wells as Registered Nurses enrolled in baccalaureate completion programs. We strive to promote the development of skills needed by students as they enter the nursing profession. We aim to educate students on the importance of nursing associations and encourage involvement in those therein to advocate for high quality health care.This is great!
The Tennessee Nursing Crisis: Your Career Starts Now
The need for skilled healthcare professionals in the Volunteer State has never been more critical. As experienced nurses retire and the state’s population—particularly the older adult demographic—continues to grow, Tennessee faces a significant and deepening nursing shortage.
The Tennessee Hospital Association projects a shortfall of thousands of Registered Nurses (RNs) in the coming years. This isn’t just a statistic; it represents open positions, increased patient needs, and a powerful opportunity for you to begin a stable, rewarding, and essential career.
As a future Tennessee nurse, you are the solution.
Endless Educational Pathways: Launch Your Nursing Future
The great news is that Tennessee offers a vast landscape of accredited educational options designed to meet you wherever you are on your academic journey. The path to becoming an RN is diverse, and the opportunities for career growth are limitless.
Pre-Licensure Options (Becoming an RN):
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): A direct and efficient path offered at many community colleges, preparing you to pass the NCLEX and begin practicing as a Registered Nurse quickly.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): The four-year standard, highly preferred by hospitals and increasingly recognized as the entry point for professional practice. Tennessee universities offer traditional and Accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs for those with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree.
Advanced and Graduate Pathways:
For practicing RNs, the commitment to lifelong learning is supported by flexible, often online programs:
- RN-to-BSN: This essential pathway allows licensed RNs with an ADN or diploma to efficiently earn their bachelor’s degree, often in 12-18 months. Achieving a BSN opens doors to greater responsibility, leadership roles, and improved patient outcomes.
Check out rntobsnschools.org for a complete list of TN schools. - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): Ready to specialize or lead? An MSN prepares you for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) roles like Nurse Practitioner (NP), Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), or roles in education and administration.
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) / PhD: The highest levels of practice and research, preparing you for clinical excellence or to become the next generation of nursing faculty—another critical need in Tennessee!
Why Join the Tennessee Student Nursing Association?
The sheer demand means you can choose from roles in the thriving medical centers of Nashville and Memphis, the regional hubs of Knoxville and Chattanooga, or serve a vital role in our rural communities.
Joining the Tennessee Student Nursing Association connects you directly to the state’s nursing community, providing:
- Networking: Meet current nurses, leaders, and recruiters.
- Resources: Access study guides, scholarships, and career advice.
- Advocacy: Use your voice to shape the future of healthcare in Tennessee.
Take the first step toward a career that matters. Tennessee needs you!