Evolving nursing education: Tackling the US shortage with innovation
Writer: Mariana Hernández
August 2025 — For the past few years, the United States has been facing a Registered Nurse (RN) shortage, but more recently, the crisis has become one of the most pressing challenges for the healthcare sector. Driven by an aging population, low program enrollment, and rising demand for care, this shortage has put hospitals and clinics under pressure nationwide, with the three states with the highest projected deficit by 2030 being California, Texas, and New Jersey. However, educational institutions are stepping up with innovative approaches, aligning nursing programs with the evolving reality of healthcare and technology. This shift is critical for ensuring the next generation of nurses is numerous enough and well prepared with modern skills for a rapidly changing industry.
For the past century, nursing education was hospital-based, where nurses learned directly on the floor. Over time, this shifted towards an academic-based model, reflecting the growing complexity of the profession and expanding nursing beyond hospitals to universities and colleges, providing both clinical experience and theoretical knowledge.
Now, nursing education must respond to new pressures and opportunities in healthcare. More than 194,000 openings are projected for registered nurses every year through 2033. With a growth rate of 6%, nursing is increasing faster than the average across all occupations. This is driven by retirements and the need to replace those leaving the field. The projection for 2025 by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) was 78,610 full-time RNs and 63,720 RNs by 2030.
According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), the U.S. nursing shortage is particularly severe in regions with aging populations and limited faculty capacity, making workforce development a national priority and a media focus.
“One of our limitations to increasing enrollment is the number of practicum sites that we have for our students to do their hands-on training. Recruiting nursing faculty members with a master’s or doctoral degree to come and teach has also been challenging,” Cameron Duncan, dean of Florida Atlantic University Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, told Invest:. “We have a wait list of students who want to come into the college, but we cannot compromise the rigor and quality of preparation that they need to have by the time they graduate, to be safe and competent nurses.”
The compensation factor is crucial. Although the private sector needs a talented workforce and can offer competitive salaries, it is also driving potential nurse educators away from universities and colleges. A nursing instructor can earn an estimated $86,530 annually, while a working RN can make $93,600 with a Bachelor’s degree. Nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners with a Master’s degree can earn a median pay $132,050.
“Additionally, we are introducing certificate programs and micro-badging options for nurses who want additional education beyond their bachelor’s degrees but aren’t ready for full graduate studies. Topics like sustainability and healthcare’s carbon footprint are areas where nursing can lead. Nurses touch every corner of the hospital, making them ideally positioned to drive change,” said Usha Menon, dean of the College of Nursing at USF Health, in an interview with Invest:.
To address this demand, nursing schools are rethinking the pipeline. Accelerated programs, designed for students who already hold a degree in another field, offer a fast-track route into nursing in as little as 11 to 18 months across the United States and Puerto Rico. Online nursing programs have also expanded access, allowing students to balance education with work and family commitments.
Technology is also reshaping how nurses are trained and how they practice. From advanced simulations that replicate hospital emergencies to AI-driven tools that support patient care, nursing programs are integrating digital solutions at every level.
“Technology integration and simulation-based learning play an increasingly vital role in healthcare. It’s essential that nursing education adapts to that. We’ve incorporated more simulation-based learning through advanced simulation centers, including those offered by HCA and our own facilities. This hands-on experience is critical as technology continues to evolve in healthcare settings. Introducing the students to AI-based tools used in clinical settings will help them understand how AI can support their decision-making processes and assist with patient assessments,” Consuelo Nelson, dean of the Galen College of Nursing, told Invest:.
Despite progress, barriers remain. The faculty shortage leads qualified applicants to turn away from nursing schools each year because institutions lack sufficient faculty and clinical placement opportunities. The gap between demand and supply of nurses can shrink if nursing schools continue forming partnerships with hospitals and health systems to increase clinical opportunities and speed up workforce readiness.
The nursing shortage is not just a staffing issue; it is a challenge that stems from the root of education. Institutions are key players in the solution, with evolving models to meet the realities of today’s healthcare system. By reimagining how nurses are trained and embracing innovation and tradition, the U.S. is taking crucial steps to ensure its healthcare system remains strong, resilient, and ready for the future.
“In terms of nursing education, the future looks positive. Nursing as a profession has strengthened year after year, and I only see that continuing,” Duncan added. “My hope is that there are continued resources, support, and importance put into higher education, despite the fluctuations and challenges we may face.”
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