Full time jobs and personal obligations often prevent people from attaining a desired level of nursing education. At the same time, the benefits of a well-structured and rigorous study plan cannot be denied. Employers prefer to hire those who are equipped with a quality education. This is particularly relevant to registered nurses (RN). Online RN Programs greatly benefits students who are faced with this dilemma. It provides them access to quality education from many universities anywhere in the US as long as they have an internet connection. It is the easiest way to remain on top of the latest technological advancements in the field of nursing without being time consuming. It also puts them in a much better position for professional growth.
Educational and Licensure Requirements
Prospective RNs can take one of the three routes available to them. They can choose to enroll in a degree program such as Bachelors of Science in Nursing (BSN). This degree takes four years to complete, and focuses on developing a strong base in nursing knowledge and skills. Students are also trained in a variety of other subjects like physical and social sciences. They are taught skills for effective communication, critical thinking, and leadership. Keeping in view the evolving nature of the practice of nursing, these skills are being increasingly preferred by employers. Some students opt to go for an associate's degree in nursing (ADN) or a hospital-based diploma program from an approved nursing program. In diploma program, prospective students go on to join entry level positions in the field of nursing and then have the benefit of attaining tuition reimbursement for attending an RN to BSN program. Students must also have a nursing license which ensures that they have the required level of nursing ability to practice competently. This can be obtained by passing the National Council Licensure Examination or NCLEX-RN. Individual states may have additional licensing requirements. Certification is voluntary, but it is highly preferred by employers, and sometimes even required.
Program Overview
Students enrolled in online RN programs as well as in traditional campuses study a variety of courses depending upon the nature of program in which they are enrolled. Some of these are:
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Nursing
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Anatomy
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Physiology
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Microbiology
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Chemistry
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Nutrition
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Psychology
Also, students will get the chance to study courses in liberal arts and social and behavioral sciences. These programs include supervised clinical experience in various hospital departments such as psychiatry, maternity, pediatrics, and surgery. Clinical experience is also offered in rehabilitation facilities, public health departments, and home health agencies.
Career Outlook
RNs can work in private and public general medical and surgical hospitals, home health care service, offices of physicians, and nursing care facilities. They can also work in administrative, managerial, and educational positions. Some of the job titles in these roles are:
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Clinical Nurse Manager
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Charge Nurse
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Case Management Director
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Clinical Nurse Educator
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Director of Education
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Professor of Nursing
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Postsecondary Teachers
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Manager of Ambulatory Services
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Associate Chief Nursing Officer
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Chief Nursing Officer
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses will face an expected growth rate of 26 percent from 2010 to 2020. This rate is faster than the average for all occupations.