The size and depth of the nursing industry in Vermont contradicts its small size – there was a little over 18,000 licensed registered nurse in the state in 2014, according to the American Association of Colleges in Nursing. This industry, however, is confronted by several challenges: an aging nursing faculty, a rapidly changing healthcare system, and increasing demand for primary medical care services in underserved and understaffed regions in the state. Learn more about nursing schools in Vermont, the nursing licensing process, and employment outlook for registered nurses and advanced practice nurses in the state.
Discover Vermont Nursing Schools
Several educational paths are available to individuals interested in joining Vermont's nursing industry as a registered nurse or APRN. Offered at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, nursing programs can be found at community colleges and four-year universities across the state. Find out what Vermont has to offer in terms of academic options and get more detailed information on specific nursing programs and schools.
Licensing Requirements in VT
The Vermont Board of Nursing is the regulatory body that handles the licensing and renewal process for all nurses in Vermont. The practice of nursing requires a license and without one, a nurse cannot work legally any state. The Board of Nursing approves candidates through examination and endorsement processes. Learn more about the steps required to apply for first-time registered nursing licensure through examination in the state of Vermont below.
Eligibility Requirements
- Graduate from a state-approved nursing degree program
- Submit an application and all supporting documentation to the Board of Nursing
- Submit a 2”x2” passport-type photograph
- Provide valid copies of a form of government identification
- Pay an application fee of $90
- Graduates of out-of-state nursing programs must have a Verification of Education form completed by officials at their nursing program
- Graduates of out-of-state programs are required to submit official transcripts
- Register for National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) with Pearson VUE and pay a $200 testing fee
- Receive Authorization to Test (ATT) from Board of Nursing after application is submitted, reviewed and approved
- Take the NCLEX-RN examination
Renewal in Vermont
To maintain their license, nurses in Vermont must go through the renewal process every two years. An application, along with proper documentation and a $140 application fee must be submitted during each renewal period. The state has established an active practice requirement for nurses who wish to renew their licenses, which means applicants must have completed at least 400 hours (50 days) of nursing during the current licensure period or at least 960 hours of practice (120 days) within the five year period before the current license period ends. Applicants who do not meet the active practice requirements must take and successfully complete a nursing re-entry program.
Licensing Process for Advanced Practice Nurses in VT
In order to work as an advanced practice registered nurse in Vermont, individuals must hold a valid and active RN license in the state. Additional requirements include:
- Complete online application and pay $75 application fee
- Submit a 2x2 photo and official government identification (e.g. driver's license, passport)
- Have official copies of transcripts sent in a sealed envelope or directly to the Board of Nursing from the approved graduate program of study
- Transcripts must show successful coursework in advanced assessment, advanced pathophysiology, and pharmacotherapeutics
- Submit a copy of the current advanced nursing practice specialty certification
- Write and submit APRN practice guidelines to Board of Nursing
- Meet minimum practice hours: either 400 clinical hours (50 days) within the past two years or 960 hours (120 days) within the last five years
- Submit a Practice Guidelines/Collaborative Agreement
For more information on APRNs in Vermont, visit the Secretary of State's Division of Corporations & Business Services.
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Nursing Careers in Vermont
According to the American Association of the Colleges in Nursing, there are 18,247 licensed registered nurses in the state of Vermont. Yet, as a profession, nursing remains an increasingly critical role to fill. The state is home to numerous underserved and medically understaffed area, notes the AACN. In turn, the demand for primary care nursing professionals is projected to remain strong well into the future. The three major nursing occupations—registered nurses, nurse practitioners, and nursing midwives—are collectively projected to experience 17.5 percent job growth in the state between 2012 and 2022, according to Projections Central. Learn more about the employment numbers for nurses in Vermont below.
Top-Paying Areas for RNs in Vermont
| Area | Hourly Median Wage | Annual Median Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Burlington-South Burlington | $32.67 | $67,950 |
| Southern Vermont nonmetropolitan area | $28.52 | $59,320 |
| Northern Vermont nonmetropolitan area | $27.65 | $57,520 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2014
Vermont vs. National Numbers
Salary
| Year | Annual salary(25th percentile) | Annual salary(median) | Annual salary(75th percentile) | Annual salary(25th percentile) | Annual salary(median) | Annual salary(75th percentile) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse | $53,420 | $60,960 | $74,530 | $0 | $54,620 | $66,640 | $81,080 |
| Certified Nurse Midwife | $84,270 | $93,680 | $104,740 | $0 | $82,580 | $96,970 | $114,090 |
| Nurse Anesthetist | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $132,380 | $153,780 | $181,860 |
| Nurse Practitioner | $80,610 | $91,040 | $104,490 | $0 | $82,720 | $95,350 | $113,470 |
| Type | Vermont | National |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse | 6,540 | 2,687,310 |
| Certified Nurse Midwife | 40 | 5,110 |
| Nurse Anesthetist | 0 | 36,590 |
| Nurse Practitioner | 460 | 122,050 |
| Type | Vermont | National |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse | 7,610 | 3,238,400 |
| Certified Nurse Midwife | 40 | 7,700 |
| Nurse Anesthetist | 80 | 43,900 |
| Nurse Practitioner | 490 | 147,300 |
| Type | Vermont | National |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse | 230 | 105,260 |
| Certified Nurse Midwife | 0 | 290 |
| Nurse Anesthetist | 0 | 1,560 |
| Nurse Practitioner | 20 | 5,850 |
Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2014 and Projections Central
Resources & Associations for Vermont Nurses
The Vermont Nurses in Partnership is a nonprofit organization that that has launched a series of programs, including mentorship, coaching, and preceptor programs, to support the professional development of nurses. It has grown to include more than 500 members from not only Vermont, but across the country.
Vermont Nurse Practitioners Association
The Vermont Nurse Practitioners Association (VNPA) is an organization comprised of nursing members throughout the state. It offers networking opportunities, scholarships, a nursing preceptor directory, and hosts an annual conference.
Vermont Organization of Nurse Leaders
Founded in 1996, the Vermont Organization of Nurse Leaders is a membership organization that supports the education of nurses, promotes evidence-based nursing practice, and encourages professional development. VONL offers scholarships, hosts an annual summit, and hosts regular networking events.
Vermont State Board of Nursing
The Vermont Board of Nursing is a formal board appointed by the state's governor to oversee and regulate the nursing profession in Vermont. In that capacity, they set and administer licensing standards, handle complaints and disciplinary proceedings against licensed nurses, and manage the licensing and renewal process.
Vermont State Nurses' Association
Established in 1914, the Vermont State Nurses' Association is a membership-based organization that supports individuals in the nursing profession through public policy advocacy, political action, and continuing education programs.