Are you interested in beginning or advancing your nursing career? Online nursing schools often include more flexible scheduling and self-paced courses, making them a popular choice for students who need to continue working or meet other responsibilities.
While online education may have some drawbacks, nurses already possess important success characteristics such as self-discipline and strong organizational skills. Online schooling requires strong time management abilities. Bear in mind that you may also be needed to complete additional clinical requirements including hands-on work.
With the diversity of online nursing schools available today, it might be challenging to identify the program that best matches your needs. As you decide your path, ask yourself some critical questions and then evaluate your shortlist of programs following the method below.
1. Program Type
The first step in selecting an online nursing program is determining the type of curriculum that will be most beneficial.
You accomplish your objectives.
2. Certification
Choosing an approved program, or one that adheres to rigorous academic requirements, is the single most critical decision you will make while picking a nursing degree. Choosing an authorized college and program versus an unaccredited one can have a significant impact on your employment eligibility, acceptance into another program as you continue your education, credit transferability, and eligibility for financial aid and licensing or certification exams.
It is critical to check the accreditation status of both your selected university and nursing program.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) are the two national accrediting authorities for nursing programs (ACEN). Accreditation by the CCNE is available for baccalaureate, graduate, and residency programs. Those programs, along with LPN and ADN programs, are accredited by the ACEN. Rather than national accreditation, programs may opt for regional accreditation through their regional accreditation agency.
While additional accreditation bodies exist on an institutional level, the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) is the only one recognized by the United States Department of Education.
3. Program Length and Time Requirements
Determine the amount of time you have available to spend to your study. Are you sufficiently disciplined to manage a self-paced program? Do you prefer a more regimented schedule? Consult with the school to determine the program’s requirements and duration.
- Are the classes scheduled in advance or may they be accessed at any time?
- How much time will clinical experiences take up?
- Does the clinical schedule fit your schedule?
4. Prerequisites and Work Experience Credit
- Is your chosen program subject to prerequisite courses (which are frequently required for BSN programs)?
- Can you transfer your previous course credits to the present program?
- Is there a minimum GPA or SAT/ACT score requirement?
- Is there an admissions exam? TEAS?
- Is work experience counted toward the program’s requirements?
5. Is It the Right Choice for Me?
Present these questions to the admissions counselor, along with a request to meet with any recent grads about their experiences.
- What is the faculty’s level of experience? Make a point of hiring professors who have substantial clinical experience.
- Are lessons arranged in such a way that they accommodate students with varying learning styles?
- Are you going to have access to faculty and an academic advisor?
- Is there an online forum for student interaction in the program?
- Is there a specialty available in your field of study? This is especially true for master’s and doctoral programs.
- How many graduating BSN students pass the NCLEX on their first attempt?
- How many grads find work within three months of graduation?
- Is career placement assistance available at the school?
6. Price
While the expense of a nursing program will undoubtedly factor into your selection, do not let it prevent you from investigating options. While the cost of online nursing programs varies, the price displayed is not always the price you will pay.
- Is financial help or a scholarship available to you?
- Which payment options do they provide?
- Are they affiliated with organizations that will cover the cost of your education if you work for them following graduation?
Online nursing education is an excellent option for those interested in starting or enhancing their careers. Utilize this information to assist you in selecting your next online nursing program and to ensure that your selection will benefit your career.
