The healthcare industry in America is rapidly growing. A growing number of individuals from the Baby Boomer's generation are entering old age, and require closer attention and treatment. As a result, the need for a qualified nursing staff has also risen sharply, to bridge the gap between patients and doctors. Because of this surge, a bachelor's degree in nursing is becoming a popular degree for students. While many top-notch institutes are offering this program, not everyone has equal access to the resources. Some individuals would like to transition into a career in nursing, but cannot because they are working full-time or part-time jobs. These preoccupations prevent them from enrolling in a campus-based program, and hence miss out on the chance to acquire the right training.
Benefits of Online Education
Online BSN programs are an excellent solution to the concerns of such individuals. Several reputed universities are now offering these online programs to increase the access of education to interested individuals. If you are working a job and cannot take the time to attend school as a student; if you feel intimidated or awkward attending school because you may be much older than the average college-going student's age, then these degrees are highly recommended for you. Some students may also live very far away from a campus-based offering of this degree, and can benefit from enrolling in online BSN programs.
A bachelor's degree in nursing entails a 4-year study period involving specialized training in areas of biology like Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, and others. You also receive training in the operation of technical equipment required in your field, along with clinical experience to sharpen your care-giving skills. The degree also requires students to take courses in the social sciences and basic math such as statistics. Equipped with this holistic skill set, you are more efficient and effective at handling your responsibilities.
An online BSN program allows you to receive this same comprehensive training at a flexible, convenient pace. Since the material is uploaded online, you can access it from anywhere in the world; all you need is a reliable internet connection and a reliable computer. This greatly reduces the burden of having to commute to and from a campus every day and modify your schedule to accommodate classes. While there are still deadlines to adhere to, they are generally more flexible and allow you ample time to grasp the material thoroughly and work at your own pace. Through local affiliations with clinics and hospitals, you can complete your clinical training easily as well.
In no way does an online BSN program limit your opportunities either. Upon completing your requirements, the degree you are awarded is accredited and recognized professionally. You are also immediately eligible to take the national licensing examination which authorizes you to practice your profession legally within the United States.
Job outlook
The healthcare industry in the US is pegged to grow by about 26% between 2010 and 2020, making it among the fastest-growing. If you want to get involved, an online BSN program may be the perfect opportunity.