The nursing profession has progressed very quickly over the last decade, with more and more students entering nursing school. Many of these students are RNs who have decided to go back to school for their BSN degrees. While this is a great option for many nurses, it can get expensive to attend classes while working full time.
However, taking online courses could help nurse with their financial burdens while accomplishing their goal. This article will tell you several reasons why pursuing an online BSN degree is a good option in general, as well as how it might specifically help RNs finally achieve the dream of having their BSN degree.
Reasons Online Classes Work Well For Nurses
One major reason online classes work well for nurses is that they can take care of patients while still earning their degrees. This means they won’t have to choose between working and going to school, which can be a challenge for many new nurses.
Taking online classes also allows people who work the night shift or other odd hours the ability to complete their assignments without worrying about missing class due to shift duties. Some schools even accept credits from other schools, but only if the courses were taken through an accredited university.
How RNs Can Benefit From Online Classes
If you’re already an RN, then you know exactly what is expected of you on any given day. You understand how quickly things can change, and how important it is for nurses to keep up with changing policies and new technology. But how do you stay up to date while working full time and going to school part-time? One way to accomplish this is by taking your prerequisites and nursing classes online.
You can continue working and earning money while pursuing your degree, which will help relieve the financial burden of attending college. Another great thing is that there are lots of schools that offer affordable RN to BSN programs online, saving nursing students even more money. Students can research to know these options to ensure they will receive a quality education without spending too much on tuition.
How to Choose the Best Online School for RN to BSN
First, you want to look for an online school that is regionally accredited. This means the school’s accreditation was reviewed and approved by a regional agency. It’s important to attend a nursing program that has been accredited because this will ensure your degree is accepted at most hospitals or medical facilities.
Another thing to consider when choosing an online RN for a BSN degree program is whether or not they accept previous credit from other institutions. Many schools only give credits for courses taken within their institution, but some allow students coming in with previous college experience to apply those prerequisites towards the requirements of their bachelor’s degree in nursing. While this could speed up the process of earning your BSN Degree, make sure you do your research on what credits are available.
You might also want to consider whether or not the college provides any career services for students, which can be very helpful after graduation. These services can include job boards filled with jobs for nurses, as well as resume building and interview coaching sessions. Some schools even have on-campus interviews arranged with local hospitals and medical facilities for students who may need help finding a job after they graduate.
By considering these factors when looking at online RN to BSN programs, you can find one that will fit your schedule and budget while helping you get closer to achieving your dream of earning your bachelor’s degree in nursing.
While it’s often recommended that nurses go back for their BSN after several years in the workforce, many RNs are unable or unwilling to quit their jobs just so they can attend class. Fortunately, there are programs offered that allow students to continue their education. These programs are typically online, which means nurses can attend class on whatever schedule they need to in order to meet the demands of their job.