Introduction to an Online Education in Nursing

by Douglas Schmitt
Introduction to an Online Education in Nursing

If you are already an RN and want to take the next step in your career with a bachelor's or master's degree, a traditional school may not be an option because of rising costs and schedule conflicts. Consider an online nursing degree.

Online nursing programs offer several advantages, including:

  • The ability to attend class from home.
  • Flexible schedules.
  • The cost -- online nursing schools are not as expensive as traditional degree programs.
  • Customization.
  • Accelerated classes that put you on the "fast track" so you can get your degree in just one or two years.
  • Live online classes where you can interact with others from around the world in real time.
  • Recorded class documents, live chat discussions, training materials, and transcripts, archived for your use.
  • Fewer restrictions, making acceptance into nursing degree programs .

Schools Offering Online Nursing Programs

Several institutions of higher education are now offering online nursing programs. These include:

Funding Your Online Nursing Degree

Making an education affordable is an important issue for almost every student. While an education in nursing online is not as expensive as a traditional education, it can be costly.

Just like traditional education, financial aid is available for online nursing courses. Schools have tuition assistance programs, and the government offers loans and grants.

Beyond these options, students may apply for scholarships. Several nursing scholarships are available. A few examples are:

Employment

The nursing shortage -- due to the matrix of an aging population, an increasing number of retiring nurses, and a shift toward more health care delivery done by skilled nurses than doctors -- means that there is a high demand and greater opportunity of advancement for nurses who have a BSN degree or higher.

And completion of advanced degrees usually results in a higher salary. Nurses with a bachelor's degree can earn salaries ranging from $55,000 to $71,000, depending on experience and specialty. Over time, with more experience and further education, salaries will increase, according to Kay Osinski, Assistant Dean at the Baker School of Nursing in Topeka, Kansas.

Hospitals and health care providers have a high demand for individuals that can also be supervisors and managers. This is why a bachelor's degree and nursing master's degree offer more opportunity for advancement. According to Osinski, as healthcare and technology always evolve, nurses should keep up-to-date on the newest information and technology.

What better way to show your grasp of technology than by holding a degree made possible by it?

Find an online nursing program here.

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