New coats, bright futures: Nursing students join growing profession

The coats that Pitt State nursing students were given at this year's Professional Coat Ceremony were a different color - black instead of white - but the symbolism was the same: the transition from student to aspiring healthcare provider. What has changed: workforce demand.

For the 88 juniors who walked across the stage, slipped on their new coats, and pledged to provide the highest quality care with compassion and ethics, their future is bright. In Kansas alone, several thousand nursing positions are expected to be open at least through 2027.

As the students left the auditorium and began greeting friends and family in the lobby, one after another expressed their excitement that they soon will be entering the profession.

Jill Bloker, of Lenexa, said it was the next step toward a dream she's been focused on since childhood.

"I've always wanted to be a nurse, ever since I was little," said Bloker, who wants to work in labor and delivery. "I chose Pitt State because it has one of the best nursing programs."

Ava Mitchell, of Wichita, said the moment was a symbolic step toward her goal.

"I chose nursing because I want to help people," she said. "That's my motivator."

Her classmate, Lane Sullivan, of Frontenac, echoed the sentiment.

"Nurses are on the front line," he said. "Nurses build trust with the patient, and they're helping people on their worst days. That really appealed to me."

Nurses in demand

Their decision couldn't come at a better time. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurse employment is projected to continue to grow nationally until at least 2033, with nearly 195,000 openings projected each year.

That demand is fueled by an aging population, retiring nurses, and the rapid expansion of healthcare services. Today's nurses are not only serving at the bedside in hospitals and clinics, they're serving in new spaces - from telehealth and digital health technology to policy, education, and community wellness.

For students, this means:

• High job security:A consistent shortage of qualified nurses ensures career stability.

• Diverse opportunities:From ICU and emergency care to public health and nursing informatics, the profession offers multiple career paths.

• Competitive salaries:Although wages can vary by state, facility, and specialization, the median annual salary for RNs is $93,600, with advanced practice nurses earning well over $120,000, depending on role and location.

• Why Pitt State?

The Irene Ransom Bradley School of Nursing backs up its reputation with resources that prepare students for the realities of modern healthcare:

• A new $8 million simulation hospitalfeaturing high-fidelity mannequins, including a pediatric patient, an adult patient capable of conversation, and a birthing simulator with mixed-reality goggles.

• Flexible, technology-enhanced classroomsdesigned for interactive learning.

• Leadership and networking opportunitiesthrough the Kansas Association of Nursing Students, which connects students to statewide and national conferences.

• National accreditationfrom the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approval from the Kansas State Board of Nursing.

• Ready to apply?

Applications open on Sept. 15 for Fall 2026 entry into Pitt State's Nursing programs. Interested students must meet with faculty before applying, with a Dec. 15 deadline.

Informational Sessions:

• Sept. 22 at 3:30 p.m., McPherson 130

• Sept. 25 at 3 p.m., McPherson 154

Programs include:

• BSN (Pre-licensure)

• RN to BSN

• MSN (Education Emphasis)

• MSN to DNP in Leadership

• BSN to DNP
• Nurse Educator Certificate

Learn more:

Irene Ransom Bradley School of Nursing