Top Hawaii RN-to-MSN Programs

Hawaii is the newest state and it is very small, being an island archipelago. As such, there are only two universities at present that offer MSN programs. However, between the two universities, they offer a huge range of different specializations, meaning that there is still something out there for all different interests. Hawaii is known as the paradise of the pacific and the aloha state. It is a beautiful group of islands with a diverse natural beauty, lots of long sandy beaches, warm weather, rainforests, waterfalls and fascinating active volcanoes. As such, it is a place that is popular not just among tourists and scientists, but also among students, who would love nothing more but to spend their time at university in idyllic surroundings.

Hawaii being such a paradise, its population is very diverse, as many people would love to move there at all costs. However, settling in this idyllic place is expensive. This is reflected in the salary of the average RN, which is way above the national average but the cost of living is also much higher than the national average. The salaries for RNs are the third highest in the country according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data for 2010. The median annual wage was $82,130 or $39.48 per hour. Some 9,390 RNs are currently employed in Hawaii.

There is great difference between the earnings of the top 10% and the bottom 10%. It has also been observed that those with the highest levels of education earn the most. However, experience is also incredibly important and those who have only just started working in nursing typically earn less than their more experienced counterparts. The top 10% earn above $108,500 per year, and the bottom 10% earn $55,840 or less.

Unfortunately, as the cost of living in Hawaii is so expensive, even the median annual salary is generally not enough to cover all bills. The cost of living in the 50th state is 76.7% above the national average, simply because everything is imported and therefore expensive. Honolulu is the most expensive of all, and it is very important to be aware of this if you were to consider relocating there.

Unsurprisingly, the average RN salary in Honolulu is also higher than in other parts of the state. The average there is $84,810, but many feel that this still doesn’t cover their monthly expenses. In order to earn above the median, it is hugely important to have both experience and education. Nevertheless, demand for nurses is strong in Hawaii and projected to grow, particularly as many people are looking into retiring there. Obesity is also a particular problem to the state, which requires further nursing care.

It is very important to choose an MSN degree program that suits your particular needs. An MSN program generally focuses on a particular area of nursing, so you need to first think about the area that you are interested in. Below are the top Hawaii MSN degree program universities that you could take into consideration.