Source: Projections Central, BLS
There are several paths you can choose to begin a career as an RN in New Mexico; however, if you are looking for the fastest route, you may want to enroll in one of New Mexico's accredited associate degree in nursing, or ADN, programs.
An ADN program in New Mexico, like in other states, can provide you with the knowledge you need for a career as an RN in just two years. Of course, you need to fulfill various entry requirements before beginning your ADN program. These requirements often vary slightly from one school to the next, but some of the most common requirements include a health exam, criminal background check, and a healthcare program entrance assessment. While ADN programs may vary from one school to the next as well, most programs include lectures in classroom, lab work, and clinical training.
At the end of your program, you may want to consider completing what is known as an NCLEX preparatory course. This course can be extremely valuable in helping to get you ready for the national licensing exam for RNs.
Related: General Admission Requirements for an ADN Program
There was never a better time than today to begin your training for a career as an RN in New Mexico. The following schools in the state will lead you down the right path.
RNs in New Mexico are in high demand, with a projected 15.4% job growth from 2022 to 2032, according to Projection Central. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there are 18,030 RNs in the state, earning an average annual salary of $92,140, or $44.30 per hour.
Use our RN salary calculator to estimate your potential earnings based on location, experience, and education.
Explore salary trends for RNs in New Mexico's metro areas below:
Area | Average Hourly Wage | Average Annual Salary |
---|---|---|
Santa Fe | $45.23 | $94,090 |
Albuquerque | $44.40 | $92,350 |
Farmington | $41.55 | $86,420 |
Las Cruces | $39.88 | $82,950 |
Source: BLS
For questions about nursing programs and licensure in New Mexico, please contact the New Mexico Board of Nursing.
New Mexico boasts a variety of accredited ADN programs, and the ones listed above are some of the best options available in the state.