According to an American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) survey, 84 percent of new nurses graduate with a job offer. That placement rate rises to 96 percent within the four to six months after completing their programs.
“If you get a degree in nursing, you’re almost guaranteed a job,” Brian Bost says.
Bost, who oversees admissions at Duquesne University’s School of Nursing, shared that insight during the 2025 Portage Learning Currents Conference.
“[Nursing] is challenging, but if you have a heart full of compassion, and you want to care for people as best as you can, then nursing is the right career for you,” he explains.
Here’s how to leverage the opportunity on your side from day one into your first RN role.
Types of Jobs for New Grad Nurses
Many RNs begin their careers in a hospital, but that’s far from the only setting actively hiring new graduates.
Critical care nurse
Critical care nurses work with patients in life-threatening situations, such as those battling severe infections.
Emergency room nurse
On the first line of defense, emergency room nurses provide immediate care to patients of all ages with various injuries and conditions.
Medical-surgical nurse
Medical-surgical, or med-surg, nurses help patients prepare for surgery and assist them following a procedure.
Pediatric nurse
Pediatric nurses focus on the health and well-being of infants, children, and adolescents.
Gerontology nurse
As the U.S. population ages, gerontology nurses ensure older adults live their golden years with respect and comfort.
Home health nurse
Home health nurses work with people in the comfort of their own house.
Psychiatric nurse
Psychiatric nurses advocate for patients with mental health disorders, playing a crucial role in their treatment.
Do New Grad Nursing Jobs Pay Well?
RNs, on average, earn $93,600 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
New grad nursing jobs will likely pay closer to $66,000, on the lower end of the BLS range, since applicants lack work experience.
A nurse’s practice setting and geographic location may also impact the starting wage.
Nurse Residency Programs
The transition from student to working professional can be challenging.
Nearly 17 percent of new graduate nurses leave the profession after a year, and up to 30 percent exit within the first three years.
Nurse residency programs aid entry-level RNs, combining classroom-based learning with clinical supervision to help you acclimate to your first year of practice.
Programs typically take place in larger medical facilities and last six to 12 months. Some residencies focus on one specialty, while others rotate new graduates through a few different units. You’ll be paired with a nurse preceptor, too. These experienced colleagues guide and advise you throughout the program.
RNs who earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited program may benefit from a residency program versus entering the workforce if they want or need to:
- Develop basic clinical skills
- Gain confidence
- Learn how to contribute to a clinical care team
- Become acclimated to important clinical technologies, such as analytics
When to Apply for New Grad Nursing Jobs
You should begin the job application process during your final semester of nursing school. However, you cannot legally practice as a nurse without passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), which may impact how you go about your search.
Some hiring managers will not interview candidates unless they have a license. Others will extend an offer to those without one as long as they pass the exam within a certain timeframe, such as 90 days.
With that in mind, many employers start looking for spring graduate applicants in January and fall graduates in August. You must concentrate on finishing your classes and passing the NCLEX during this time.
How to Get a Job as a New RN Grad
Whether your prospective workplace requires you to obtain your license before applying, follow these steps to land your first nursing job:
- Consider your preferences and long-term goals
Reflect on what you want out of this opportunity and other factors such as the patient population you would work with, shift, and type of facility. How does the job help get you to your dream role? - Polish your resume and cover letter
Create a one-page, visually appealing resume that details your relevant accomplishments, volunteer work, projects, and how they match the employer’s needs. Your cover letter introduces you to the company and should: · Highlight your cultural fit with their goals and values · Explain why you want the job · Address any career changes or employment gaps Tailor your resume and cover letter to each job application. Your school’s career center can assist with writing and reviewing these documents, too. - Research available positions — and apply
Look for open roles on job boards such as Indeed or the healthcare facility’s own website. Consider creating a spreadsheet to track your applications and interviews.
The process can be tedious so take your time when applying to ensure you submit accurate information. - Prepare
Once your resume lands the interview, make a powerful impression.
Review the organization’s website and be prepared to demonstrate your understanding of nursing concepts, your problem-solving abilities, and your interpersonal skills.
Make it a goal to genuinely connect with the hiring team, asking thoughtful questions to display your commitment.
You should arrive 10-15 minutes early and wear clean, appropriate-fitting clothes.
Follow up with a thank-you note or email reiterating your gratitude for the interview and your fit for the role.
What to Expect During Your First Nursing Job
After accepting a position, your new employer will send information ahead of your first day with details of what to expect in the coming weeks so you can begin your career confidently. Some other ways to thrive during the transition include:
- Introducing yourself
- Asking questions
- Being patient with yourself
- Adjusting to your shift
- Developing time management skills
- Asking for help
- Practicing self-care
- Finding a mentor
The Final Thought on Your Nursing Future
The lead-up to your first nursing job may be filled with anticipation and nervousness.
You might even feel overwhelmed once in the role.
But in those moments, trust the preparation provided by your degree.
Now more than ever healthcare organizations — and patients — need the care that only you can provide.
(Jumpstart your nursing career and take online prerequisites with Portage Learning. The self-directed courses from our accredited institution transfer to more than 2,800 colleges and universities nationwide. View the full course list.)
Still looking for answers?
Check out the FAQs about this article below.
