If you’re a mom headed back to work, you’re probably looking for a family-friendly career. The following are just a few of the many reasons why you should consider joining the nursing profession.

Fast Track Training and Professional Placement

If you’ve been out of the workforce for a while, nursing is a great option because it offers quick training for entry level positions. A diploma or associates degree that allows you to earn a Registered Nurse license can take as little as two or three years. Such programs help graduates get entry-level, professional positions with a minimum investment of time and money.

Learn While You Earn is a Big Part of the Nursing Culture

If you’re intimidated by taking on educational debt without the benefit of another income for a few years, don’t be. Most nursing students easily find employment as nursing assistants to provide some income, develop patient care skills and form professional connections for after graduation. Since most healthcare employers offer tuition reimbursement and many schools offer flexible options such as online RN to MSN programs, returning to school to land a higher-level supervisory or administrative position has never been easier or more convenient.

Shift and Weekend Work Can Save You Money on Childcare

If your spouse has a traditional daylight job, nursing has the major advantage of giving you the opportunity to work night shift. Some hospitals and larger facilities also have so-called “Weekends Only” programs that pay nurses a full-time salary for working 2 twelve-hour shifts each weekend and an additional twelve-hour shift on either Friday or Monday. While the twelve-hour shifts are very demanding, being completely free from work four days every week can save your family even more money on childcare than working night shift.

You Will Become a More Knowledgeable Healthcare Consumer

Beyond the relatively quick ascent to a flexible and financially rewarding position, perhaps the biggest benefit of becoming a nurse is the knowledge you gain. You will be able to help your family during emergencies while you wait for an ambulance. During routine appointments, you’ll also know what questions to ask, as well as what information to share with other healthcare providers.

Consider nursing if you’re a mom faced with returning to the workforce. Few careers can give you as much opportunity to quickly improve your family’s physical and fiscal well-being.