Why You Need to Think of Online Nursing Programs Now

Are you thinking about pursuing a career in healthcare? Have you considered nursing? If job security and career growth is what you’re looking for, nursing can be a great path to pursue.

The demand for nurses is expected to grow in the coming years. Many factors such as health cost coverage, changing lifestyles, diseases and health conditions, and changing population trends have pushed the demand for health services everywhere.

Healthcare employers and organizations are on the constant look out for nurses who have a college degree and skills. The work environment for nurses is evolving rapidly due to technological advancements in healthcare and medicine. This means, nurses are required to upgrade their skill set to successfully face new challenges in the field.

Employment outlook

According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, US will experience a shortage of registered nursing in the coming years. This Association is working hard to develop strategies to increase the number of nurses and help institutions cope with nursing shortage.

The Institute of Medicine released a report in 2010, which called for increasing the number of nurses with baccalaureate degrees to 80%. Many students fail to recognize the advantages of pursing bachelor-level nursing degrees in today’s competitive healthcare workforce.

The employment prospects of nurses seem bright especially for those who are seeking job security, steady income and opportunities for growth. Apart from these benefits, nursing is considered as a noble profession, where services are provided to help heal the injured and sick. Working as a nurse means being able to help people on a daily basis and bring in a positive change.

Popularity of registered nursing degrees

Did you know that in 2010, the total number of registered nursing bachelor degrees conferred was 73916? Nursing degrees amounted to 57% of the total health related degrees awarded to students that year.

On the other hand, 13% of the total master-level health care degrees conferred in 2010 were in registered nursing. Here are some more interesting facts provided by the BLS, which reflect the popularity of nursing degree programs:

• 11% of the total enrollments in bachelor nurse program were male
• 89% of the total enrollments in bachelor nurse program were female
• 9% of the total enrollments in masters nurse program were male
• 91% of the total enrollments in masters nurse program were female

These statistics show that nursing programs are extremely popular among female as compared to male students.

Why you should consider enrolling in an online nursing program?

Going to college can be an expensive and tough pursuit for many aspiring students. However, this does not mean you let go of your dream of becoming a nurse. Thanks to the many online nursing schools out there, studying to become a nurse has never been easier.

Online nursing schools are now offering the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degrees. Since nursing requires lab work, therefore most of these programs are offered as hybrid, requiring some on-campus visits.  Since hands-on experience and practical training are an important part of becoming a nurse, a hybrid program allows students to cover the theoretical portion online and attend training sessions on-campus.

Many students pursuing bachelor’s programs are already working as entry-level nurses. To help them move up the ladder and qualify for better nursing positions, a BSN degree or MSN degree is necessary. However, going back to college to get an advanced nursing degree may seem impossible with a hectic work schedule. In such cases, studying online can be a great option.

Benefits of studying nursing online

• Flexible coursework

Students enrolled in an online nursing degree can make their own study schedule, which best match their busy work routines. This means students do not have to worry about missing classes or lectures and can study conveniently at any time of the day.

• Low costs

Online programs are comparatively less expensive as compared to on-campus programs. The overall costs are significantly reduced as students do not have to travel as much as traditional students.

• Self-paced coursework

Many online nursing schools allow students to study at their own pace without having to worry about keeping up with the class. Whether you wish to complete the program at an accelerated pace or a slow pace, you can set your own pace of study.

• Study from any location

All you need is a computer and an internet connection to study online. Whether you are at home, at work, or on the move, an online program allows you to log in and study from any location.

• Get study materials online

In an online nursing program, you will have 24/7 access to learning materials online. If you miss a lecture, you can always listen to pre-recorded lectures. Online schools have developed various learning software, which are easy to download and access. There is no hassle of gathering reading materials and books.

• Convenient for working individuals

For some, studying on-campus may mean sacrificing their careers. With the help of distance education, now professionals can pursue their studies without having to compromise on their professional life. Online education is great for those who want to balance their work and studies without compromising on either. Many working nurses prefer to enroll in online programs, nowadays.

These are just some of the many benefits of studying online.  There are many online nursing schools you can choose from. Make sure you check the accreditation status of the college before enrolling. Don’t let cost, work, or anything else get in the way of you pursuing your dream job.