In recent years, the healthcare industry has grown rapidly, and with that, the demand for skilled nurses has skyrocketed. For those interested in entering the nursing profession or advancing their current career, earning an accredited online nursing degree offers a flexible and convenient pathway to achieving professional goals.
Whether you’re looking to become a registered nurse (RN), pursue a nurse practitioner role, or specialize in a particular area of nursing, completing an accredited nursing degree online can provide the necessary knowledge and credentials to succeed.
The Importance of Choosing an Accredited Program
Before diving into the process of earning an accredited online nursing degree, it’s essential to understand the significance of program accreditation. Accreditation ensures that the program meets the high standards set by professional organizations and regulatory bodies.
Accreditation also assures employers that the nursing program produces highly qualified nurses who are prepared for the challenges of the healthcare environment.
To ensure you’re enrolling in a reputable program, check whether the nursing program is accredited by a recognized body, such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Accreditation not only guarantees the quality of education but also enables you to sit for licensing exams and pursue a career as a registered nurse.
The Benefits of Earning an Online Nursing Degree
There are numerous advantages to earning an accredited online nursing degree. For starters, online programs provide flexibility and convenience, allowing students to complete coursework on their own schedule. This is especially important for working professionals or individuals with family commitments who may not have the time to attend traditional, on-campus classes.
Additionally, online nursing programs often provide the same quality of education as their in-person counterparts. Many online programs are designed to be highly interactive, offering virtual simulations, video lectures, and collaborative assignments. This makes it easier for students to engage with the material and connect with instructors and peers, even from a distance.
Steps to Earning an Accredited Online Nursing Degree
The path to earning an accredited online nursing degree varies depending on your current education level and career goals. However, there are several steps common to all aspiring nurses who want to earn their degree online.
1. Research Accredited Nursing Programs
The first step in earning an accredited online nursing degree is to research and identify programs that meet your specific needs. Consider factors such as the level of degree (Associate’s, Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate), specializations offered, cost, and program duration. It’s also crucial to check if the program is fully accredited by the CCNE or ACEN.
Most online nursing programs require students to have a high school diploma or a previous degree in a related field. If you’re starting from scratch, a two-year Associate’s degree in nursing may be the best place to begin. Alternatively, if you already have a Bachelor’s degree, you might choose an accelerated program to obtain your nursing degree faster.
2. Meet Admission Requirements
Once you’ve chosen a program, you will need to meet the admission requirements, which typically include the following:
- Proof of high school graduation or equivalent (for Associate’s or Bachelor’s programs)
- Transcripts from any previous postsecondary education
- Letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources
- Personal statement outlining your interest in nursing
- A minimum GPA (often around 2.5-3.0)
- Some programs may require completion of certain prerequisites, such as courses in biology, anatomy, and chemistry.
3. Complete the Coursework
After gaining admission, the next step is to complete the required coursework for your accredited online nursing degree. Depending on the level of degree, the coursework will cover foundational nursing knowledge as well as specialized areas of nursing practice. Topics may include:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Pharmacology
- Pathophysiology
- Nursing Ethics
- Health Assessment
- Nursing Research
- Mental Health Nursing
- Pediatric Nursing
- Adult and Geriatric Nursing
Online nursing programs use a variety of teaching methods to help students understand the material, including video lectures, interactive assignments, group discussions, and virtual labs. These methods ensure that students can learn and apply concepts effectively, even in an online environment.
4. Gain Practical Experience Through Clinical Hours
One of the most important components of a nursing education is hands-on training. Even in an accredited online nursing degree program, clinical hours are essential to develop the practical skills needed to become a competent nurse.
While the majority of your coursework will be completed online, clinical placements are generally arranged at hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare settings near your home.
During clinical placements, you will have the opportunity to work directly with patients under the supervision of licensed healthcare professionals. This real-world experience will give you the skills and confidence to perform clinical procedures and make sound decisions in a healthcare environment.
5. Complete the Licensing Exam
After completing your accredited online nursing degree, the next step is to become licensed. In most countries, including the United States, nurses must pass a licensing exam to practice legally. In the U.S., this is the NCLEX-RN exam (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses). The NCLEX-RN assesses your knowledge and ability to perform nursing duties safely and effectively.
To prepare for the exam, many online nursing programs offer review courses or study guides. Additionally, there are numerous practice exams available to help you become familiar with the test format and content.
Once you’ve passed the licensing exam, you will be a registered nurse (RN) and able to begin your career in nursing. From there, you can choose to specialize in areas such as pediatrics, oncology, emergency care, or nursing administration.
6. Pursue Further Education (Optional)
For those who wish to advance their nursing careers, pursuing a Master’s or Doctorate in Nursing is a viable option. Online accredited nursing degree programs at the graduate level allow you to specialize further in areas such as Nurse Practitioner (NP), Nurse Anesthetist, Nurse Educator, or Nurse Administrator.
Earning an advanced degree opens up new career opportunities, higher earning potential, and the ability to take on leadership roles within healthcare organizations.
Popular Accredited Online Nursing Programs
When searching for an accredited online nursing degree, some of the top-rated programs to consider include:
- University of Phoenix – Offers both Associate’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Nursing, with flexible scheduling for working adults.
- Walden University – Known for its online Master’s programs in Nursing, including Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator tracks.
- Southern New Hampshire University – Offers affordable online Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs in Nursing.
- Capella University – Provides various nursing programs, including a highly regarded online PhD in Nursing.
Career Opportunities for Nurses
Earning an accredited online nursing degree opens up a wide range of career opportunities within the healthcare sector. Registered nurses (RNs) are in high demand, and they can work in a variety of settings, including:
- Hospitals
- Clinics
- Nursing homes
- Rehabilitation centers
- Schools
- Research institutions
- Home healthcare agencies
As a nurse, you may also have the opportunity to work in specialized areas such as:
- Pediatric Nursing
- Geriatric Nursing
- Oncology Nursing
- Cardiology Nursing
- Mental Health Nursing
- Emergency Nursing
Each of these specialties offers unique challenges and rewards, and many can be pursued through advanced degrees and certifications.
Final Thoughts
Earning an accredited online nursing degree is a smart choice for anyone interested in a career in nursing. Not only does it offer flexibility and convenience, but it also provides a high-quality education that prepares you for a rewarding and stable career in healthcare.
With the right program, dedication, and passion for helping others, you can join the ranks of healthcare professionals making a difference in patients’ lives around the world.
By carefully researching accredited programs and ensuring that they meet the necessary accreditation standards, you can set yourself up for success in the nursing profession. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your career, an accredited online nursing degree is a pathway to a fulfilling and impactful profession.