Pick a subject…any subject. If you look on the wonderful world wide web, you will find something about it. If you wish to be one…you can, most often, take an online class to be it. Today’s modern technology allows students the ability to learn a trade while wearing their pajamas, sitting in the bed, eating popcorn, if so desired. But can you break into a nursing healthcare career by taking an online nursing degree course? Yes and no.
Let’s explore the requirements of earning various nursing degrees through an online program:
There are many advantages to seeking and enrolling in an online degree program in nursing. They are convenient and allow flexibility. If you are currently looking for a career change, an online program is for you especially if you already have a job that you wish to maintain while earning your degree. Online programs are great for students in rural or remote areas where the traditional brick and mortar facilities are not easily accessible.
When searching for any online nursing program, please make sure that you are considering a school that is accredited. Students will need to check their state’s regulations regarding online schooling in which you will be practicing with your nursing license to assure that you will meet all of their requirements, as well.
The training to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a short online program; therefore you may begin to start your career in a matter of a few weeks. With a CNA class below your belt, you qualify to move to the next level of nursing healthcare, such as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Your online curriculum, in addition to your local clinical experience, will provide you the proper training you need to obtain your CNA licensure in compliance with your state’s regulations.
If your career goal is to become a certified Licensed Practical Nurse, Licensed Vocational Nurse (LPN/LVN), or a Registered Nurse (RN), then there are online associate degree programs in nursing that do exist; however, you can only go so far in your studies at this level with an online program. Hybrid programs combine your online classes with the clinical practical learning that is required, therefore, completing your Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) requires actual hands-on experience in a local clinic, hospital, or nursing lab. The programs will prepare you to sit for the NCLEX-PN or RN exam.
Recommended Schools
There are many online degree programs for those who already are Registered Nurses (RN) and would like to obtain their online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), a Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN), or a Doctor of Nursing (DNP) or Ph.D. degrees. Your practical requirements may be completed at your local hospital, clinic, or current workplace.
Earning your nursing degrees through an online program is convenient and allows for career advancement. Prospective employers consider the online degree just as respectable as any other on-campus program degree. Due to the increase of online students, the programs have become top-notch quality and widely respected.
To conclude, yes, you may earn your nursing degrees online…to a certain extent. However, no, you may not be able to complete your program requirements strictly online due to the on-hands clinical work that is required. Depending on the desired program level, you will need to do some research to find a program that fits your needs. For more information, check out our Top Online Nursing Degree Programs to assist you in your endeavor.