If you are one of thousands of degree holders laid off during this economic downturn and you are looking for a career change, consider taking an Accelerated Nursing Degree program. If you commit to full-time studies until you pass the NCLEX-RN exams, you can become a registered nurse in the short span of one year or 18 months.  With an RN license, you can immediately start working at about $25 an hour or more, especially if you work in higher-paying states or in higher-paying nursing specialties. Similarly, non-nursing college graduates who have not been able to find work can consider shifting direction and take accelerated nursing degree programs.