Montana Nursing

Montana Nursing

Montana Nursing outlines the educational, licensing, and career options for nurses. This state is one of the most exquisite in the United States. The huge blue skies overlook beautiful landscape that is unspoiled by industrial progress. The natural landscape of Montana offers residents and visitors much to do. The splendid mountains can be great for hiking. The clear lakes and streams are great places to enjoy water activities.

Montana is a picture of the American Western Frontier. There are still many interesting historical sites to visit. The Rocky Mountains are a popular tourist attraction. Many of the residents of this state also enjoy the beauty of these popular mountains. The Big Ski Resort is also a popular attraction for those who enjoy this outdoor activity. If you are interested in nursing in Montana, we have complied a list of the best nursing programs in Montana for you!

A NURSING CAREER IN THE BEAUTIFUL STATE OF MONTANA

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Currently, the population of Montana is just over one million people. The percentage of people with at least a high school degree is around 92%; More than 38% of Montana’s population has a bachelor’s degree or higher. The median household income in 2019 was approximately $54,900 per year, and the number of people living below the poverty line is right around 14%.

Nurses in Montana are not the highest paid in the country. However, the low cost of living and high employment rates make a nursing career in Montana desirable. And as part of the NLC, licensed nurses in Montana can easily move to most other states.  So, if you are interested in attending a nursing program in Montana, you will have many opportunities!

HOW DO YOU BECOME A NURSE IN MONTANA?

If you studied nursing at an accredited school and are NCLEX-RN eligible, becoming a licensed nurse in Montana takes just a few more steps. The Montana Board of Nursing grants nursing licenses by exam and by endorsement or reciprocity. More detailed Montana nursing license information is online at the Montana Department of Labor & Industry. 

Montana Nursing License by Exam

Montana nursing license by exam applicants will need to submit the following to the Montana Board of Nursing. You can find the complete application details on the website.

  • complete an application on the Montana Board of Nursing website
  • Pay the fees with the application
  • Submit official transcripts from nursing school attended
  • Registration for the NCLEX exam
  • A criminal background check with fingerprints
  • Take and pass the NCLEX-RN

Montana Nursing License by Endorsement or Reciprocity

Montana nursing license by endorsement applicants will need to submit the following to the Montana Board of Nursing. You can find the complete application details on the website.

  • complete an application on the Montana Board of Nursing website
  • Pay the fees with the application
  • Submit proof of education
  • Verification of nursing license
  • A criminal background check with fingerprints

Montana Is Part Of The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)

Montana is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC).  A Nurse Licensure Compact NLC license allows a nurse to have one license, or a multi-state license,  and practice in all NLC compact states. All compact licenses are issued in the primary state of residence. There is no difference between a multistate license and a compact license. 

Helpful Links for Montana Nurses

JOB OUTLOOK IN THE NURSING PROFESSION IN MONTANA

A career in nursing offers a substantial amount of job security. Nurses are in demand in the state of Montana. Hospitals, physician’s offices, nursing homes, and home health agencies are all seeking qualified nurses. Doctors have noticed an increase in the number of patients in the past several years, and this influx of patients is expected to continue to grow. Baby boomers are retiring in high numbers, so many of the patients in Montana are seniors that require more medical attention.

HOW MUCH CAN I EARN AS A NURSE IN MONTANA?

Nursing salaries in Montana are a little below the national pay average for nurses. The national mean annual wage in 2020 was $80,010. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nurses in Montana earned an annual mean wage of $70,530.00 in 2020. 

STATE-BASED FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR A NURSING DEGREE IN MONTANA

A career in nursing can be fulfilling and financially rewarding, but getting the right education is not cheap. Montana has some great colleges and universities that offer stellar nursing programs. These nursing degrees have a pretty hefty price tag, but it is possible to finance your college education without breaking the bank.

Those that have financial need can apply for federal grants, loans, and work study. The first step in getting financial assistance from the government is completing the FAFSA. This application gathers information to determine a prospective student’s eligibility for grants and other financial assistance. These awards are need based, so you will need all financial information to qualify for this money.

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