Why Pursue an Online Nursing Degree Program?
Higher Education Articles July 18, 2014Your education is an investment in your future. To reap the most from this investment, it’s best to choose a career that pays well and offers employment opportunities. The field of nursing is one that meets both criteria and is an excellent career choice. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the median annual salary for nurses in 2012 was $65,000. In addition, the demand for nurses is projected to grow a healthy 19 percent through 2022. This positive demand for nurses is fueled by an aging population and the increase in outpatient care centers. Registered nurses will have many job opportunities in hospitals, home health care, nursing facilities and physicians’ offices. Pursuing an online nursing degree program is an effective way to secure your future in the medical field.
The Convenience and Delivery of Online Nursing Degree Programs
Enrolling in an online nursing program is a convenient and flexible way to attain your nursing education. Aspiring nursing students can log in anytime day or night to complete the curriculum. It’s ideal for working professionals, busy moms and those who have a busy lifestyle. The delivery of coursework is presented in an engaging format, including video presentations, discussion boards, live conferencing and prerecorded lectures. In addition, many schools offer full-time or part-time nursing programs. Students can opt for the program that best meets their needs.
The Wide Choices in Online Nursing Degree Programs
Online nursing schools offer a variety of educational paths for nursing. Student can select a diploma from an approved nursing program, enroll in an associate’s degree program (ADN), opt for a bachelor’s of science degree in nursing (BSN) or enroll in a master’s degree nursing program. There are also fast-track programs available with an RN-to-BSN curriculum or combined bachelor’s and master’s programs in nursing. Even those with a bachelor’s degree in another field can enroll in a bachelor’s nursing program and use previous credits toward the degree. For those without the required courses, such as chemistry, anatomy and algebra, many online nursing schools offer the needed courses online before active enrollment.
Quality and Accredited Online Nursing Degree Programs
Today, students can find online nursing degree programs that are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC), and the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). U.S. News & World Report also ranks the best online nursing degree programs on factors such as technology, faculty credentials, student services and graduation rates.
Arrangement for Clinical Work
Most online nursing programs require clinical work, practicum or internships. Online nursing schools have agreements with hospitals and other health care facilities to arrange for this fieldwork. Students can conveniently complete the required clinical work at facilities in their local area. If currently employed at a health care facility, arrangements can often be made to complete the fieldwork at that facility. Nurses log their clinical hours right at their place of employment. All around, online nursing schools make completing clinical work easy and convenient.