Guide to Nursing Degrees
Nursing Degree programs prepare registered nurses for advanced professional practice through an education in the science and principles of nursing, the delivery of nursing care, systems of care delivery, and a background in leadership skills. Getting your BSN Degree will open the door to a range of specialties in the health care system, and expand your job options. Programs range in length from 18 to 24 months depending on the total number of credit hours. Online RN to BSN courses offer nurses the flexibility to continue working while continuing their education.
Why Should you Get a Degree in Nursing
Why should you get your Degree in Nursing? Good question, here are some benefits of continuing your education upgrading your degree.
- A Nursing Degree can help with promotions, a raise in pay, or it can be a valuable asset in finding another job.
- It can qualify you for additional responsibilities at work, thereby increasing your value in the workplace.
- It may open the door to areas of heath care specialization that were previously not available.
- You’ll learn more about nursing and health care. The BSN prepares you with additional knowledge and features courses in leadership and management.
- A Bachelor of Science in Nursing is one step closer to a Masters in Nursing and is required for Nurse Practitioner Programs. This advanced degree can lead you to a variety of advanced nursing and health care management opportunities.
- It can better prepare you, as many nursing careers now require the minimum of a BSN to practice
Nursing Degrees and Specialties
Individual Nursing Degree programs will vary depending on your specialization of choice. The topics listed below are just a sampling of common specializations you may encounter during your education. Consult your individual programs curriculum for a detailed list of courses and credit hours.
- RN to BSN Program
- Online RN to BSN Program
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Masters in Nursing Degree
- Medical Informatics Degree
- Health Informatics Degree
- Adult Nurse Practitioner Program
- Clinical Nurse Specialist Program
- Family Nurse Practitioner Program
- Nurse Midwife Program
- Nursing Administration Degree
- Psychiatric Nursing Program
- Womens Health Program
- Nursing Education Degree
Nursing Degree Career Opportunities
Below is a list of possible career options for qualified Nursing Degree graduates. This does not represent a complete list of career opportunities; it should only serve as a guide to potential career pathways.
- Registered Nurse
- Nurse Manager
- Nurse Supervisor
- Clinical Nurse
- Nurse Educator
- Nurse Midwife
- Womens Health Nurse
- Certified Nurse Midwife
- Psychiatric Nurse
- Family Nurse
- Traveling Nurse
Nursing Degree Online
Many nursing programs require clinicals as part of the curriculum. This is physical time working in the in field. Actual hours can vary but you should expect between 50 and 70 hours if clinical time is required. These hours can usually be completed in any state you are licensed in. This means your current workplace could be used for your clinical, however depending on the course of study, and school you choose, you may be required to perform your clinical in a public health clinic or school. Make sure to ask this question of any program you are considering.
If you are getting your RN to BSN Degree, some programs may require you to physically visit their campus. This will vary for each program, with some programs being completed 100% online, and others requiring an occasional visit.
Nursing Degree Educational Requirements
Most RN to BSN programs will require transcripts from previous college/nursing programs during the admissions process. Some schools will require a minimum GPA, prerequisite courses, and/or letters of recommendation for admission. You will usually need your current license to practice as a registered nurse in the state of residence or practice.
For more information on applying to a RN to BSN program, consult the program’s admissions requirements or call a representative for details. Many programs offer credit for prior coursework, and transfer credits, but it is judged on a per-institution basis. Accreditation can also play a role in determining if you are eligible to transfer credits or experience.
Nursing Resources
Below you will find some excellent in-depth nursing resource guides
- Guide to Online Nursing Programs
- Why Nursing School Accreditation is Important
- Finding the Right Nursing School
- Selecting the Right RN Nursing School
- Nurse Practitioner Frequently Asked Questionss
- Nurse Practitioner Schools – How to Select the Right One
- Nurse Practitioner Programs Online
Nursing Accreditation
There are a number of recognized accrediting agencies and professional associations for nurses. Make sure you research the accrediting body before you select a program.
NLNAC – National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission
www.nlnac.org
CCNE – Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
www.aacn.nche.edu
Professional Organizations for Nursing
There are a large number of professional nursing organizations and nursing advocacy groups. They are a great resource and a wealth of information.
ANA – American Nurses Association
www.nursingworld.org
AANP – American Academy of Nurse Practitioners
www.aanp.org
ACNM – American College of Nurse–Midwives
www.midwife.org
AANA – American Association of Nurse Anesthetists
www.aana.com
NACNS – National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists
www.nacns.org
AAMN – American Assembly for Men in Nursing
www.aamn.org