Students considering their nursing education online should ensure they find out a few key factors. These include accreditation, reputation, and flexibility.
Registered nurses are typically the first person you will meet when you visit a medical facility. They take your vitals and write notes for the doctor to read.
Accreditation
Online nursing programs allow students to study from anywhere, at any time. They can log on during evenings, lunch breaks, or weekends and still complete their coursework.
Moreover, students studying in online programs can also take advantage of virtual resources such as research libraries and writing centers. This helps them prepare for their exams and ensures they receive a top-quality education.
As such, if you want to become a nurse and are considering enrolling in an online program, ensure it is accredited. Accreditation is a requirement for schools to receive federal financial aid, and it signifies that the school or program meets specific quality standards. Additionally, many healthcare employers prefer to hire nurses who have graduated from an accredited program.
Reputation
A school’s reputation is essential when choosing registered nurse online programs. While it may not directly affect your classroom experience, employers often prefer job applicants from schools with solid reputations.
Unlike traditional colleges that limit students to institutions within driving distance, online nursing programs offer the opportunity to study from any location with access to the Internet. This flexibility makes earning a degree more accessible for students with busy schedules without sacrificing work and family obligations.
However, many students feel disconnected from their peers and instructors when studying online. This can be especially difficult for nursing students juggling career and family responsibilities. For this reason, students need to be self-motivated and maintain good organizational skills when pursuing an online nursing degree.
Flexibility
Many online nursing programs like William Paterson University are designed with working RNs in mind, allowing them to continue their education while meeting the demands of their current careers and responsibilities. For example, 79% of students can keep working while earning their bachelor’s or master’s degree in nursing, and each student is assigned a Program Mentor who understands the unique challenges of a healthcare career.
Furthermore, the flexibility of online learning allows students to review material at their own pace and repeat topics that may be difficult for them. This gives students a more active role in their learning and helps them become emotionally invested in the course material. This, in turn, improves their ability to retain and apply what they learn to their work.
Time-Saving
Unlike traditional programs that follow a set schedule, online nursing courses allow you to access your coursework whenever you have free time. You can log on to your course during evenings, lunch breaks, or weekends. You can also watch lectures or review your assignments when it’s convenient for you.
However, online nursing programs have no face-to-face interaction, which may leave some students feeling disconnected. Experts say it’s essential to consider how you learn best when choosing between a traditional in-person program and an online one.
Another factor to consider is cost. Some online RN programs require you to attend clinical labs at medical facilities, which can add up quickly. In addition, you will likely need to purchase laptops and other tools for studying, such as stethoscopes.
Cost
If you are committed to a career in nursing, earning an online bachelor’s degree can be the right choice for you. It shows a dedication to your education and self-discipline, a great trait employers look for in nurses.
The tuition costs of online programs vary, but they are typically less expensive than in-person options. Students should factor in other costs, like books and study materials, and living expenses, like room and board.
Additionally, aspiring nurses should ask their top-choice schools about their NCLEX pass rates. Having a high pass rate means you are more likely to get licensed in your state on the first try, which can save you money. A higher pass rate also makes you more competitive in the job market.
