There are a variety of options available if you are interested in working in healthcare. For many people, working in the healthcare field is the culmination of a lifelong dream. Some people are drawn into it because of their desire to help others, while others are fascinated with the biology and chemistry of how humans work. Whether you are interested in going to medical school or becoming an advanced practice nurse, you go into the field with the understanding that your education will extend for longer than the time it takes to earn an undergraduate degree. Deciding if the work is worth the time and financial commitment is a question only you can answer. You may wonder, however, how it is possible to fund your education.
Student Loans Cover Graduate School Costs
Student loans are not just for earning your undergraduate degree. You can borrow money for your graduate work as well. It can be discouraging to continue to live off of loans while your peers are graduating and entering the workforce. Just keep in mind that even the most intensive school is still only a small percentage of your life. Once you complete your education, you will have many years to practice your craft. Due to the expense of medical school and graduate-level degrees in nursing, you can expect to find a significant gap between what you can borrow from the federal government and the cost of attending school. Private student loans will bridge that gap and allow you to complete school without stress over covering your costs.
Advanced Practice Nurses May Prefer to Work While Attending School
For nurses who are already in the workforce and considering a return to school, the thought of quitting a job they enjoy to head back to the classroom can create anxiety. The good news is that it is very possible to continue to work as a nurse while attending graduate school. Nursing is a career designed to create flexible schedules, and it is possible to work full-time, part-time, or per diem while attending school. Many facilities will be thrilled that you are continuing your education and will be happy to allow you to work a flexible schedule that meets your needs. You may even be able to keep your benefits while working less than full-time hours.
Loan Forgiveness May Cover Some of Your Costs
Once you complete graduate school, you will be ready to pursue your career. When looking for a job, consider applying for positions in under-served areas. If you take a job in an area that is having trouble attracting and retaining healthcare staff, you may find the facility offers benefits such as reimbursing you for the cost of your student loans. You may also find employment in some places offering actual forgiveness for your student loans after working there for a specific period. There are many options available when it comes to borrowing money for school, and later for repaying those loans. If you are passionate about a career in healthcare, don’t let worries about funding or the length of school stop you from pursuing your dream.
