The Benefits of Becoming an RN With a Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Determining the level of nursing degree you need to seek will definitely help keep you on track for a successful nursing career. The level of education you have plays a huge role in the overall success you will have as a nurse, including salary and job position. When recruiters review resumes, you most definitely want a valid degree to be spotlighted. Some seeking nursing careers obtain an associates to be a licensed vocational nurse (LVN) while the majority go ahead and become a registered nurse (RN) from the beginning.



Do Not Get Stuck in An Entry Level Position



Those that are interested in eventually pursuing careers in administration or management positions will need to continue their education and go from an RN to BSN online. Online RN to BSN classes are tremendously popular due to the many benefits of this type of education. They allow students to maintain a job while also expanding their education. Base salaries for ADN nurses versus those of BSN nurses are substantially the same, since the entry level tasks they will perform are the same.



However, more hospitals are offering a small differential for the higher degree while other benefits include more choices of assignments and the opportunity to pursue greater specialization. In many cases, it takes three to three and a half years to earn an ADN, though programs advertise a two year completion time, versus the four years needed for a BSN. Because the actual time differential is so small, it may be more practical to complete an online Bachelor of Nursing degree.



Get the Position and Advancement Opportunities Many Seek



Those that do not advance their RN to BSN online, or on-campus, stay locked into entry level positions. Highly competitive units, such as labor and delivery, often only hire RN's that have earned their BSN. Another benefit is that of becoming a licensed nurse practitioner, which has a large salary differential from an RN, requires a BSN. One must have completed an online Bachelor of Nursing degree in order to pursue the Masters. Most Masters programs will not enroll students that have not completed a Bachelors regardless of the number of years of practical experience the candidate possesses.



Online Classes Make Higher Education User Friendly to the Working Professional



Online classes are a marvelous way to pursue a career in nursing. The flexible scheduling allows students to continue to work while they pursue their education. Licensed nurse practitioners can earn upwards of $100,000 annually after several years of experience.



An online RN to BSN program can help nurses realize career goals and pursue advancement opportunities. This degree can also help registered nurses pursue specialization and administrative jobs. There is just no need to stay in an entry level position when you don't have to.

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Associate Degrees With High Starting Salaries And Room For Further Education

As general wisdom goes, the more education an individual has, the more he or she might expect to earn. For the most part, for instance, a college or university graduate with a bachelor's degree might expect to earn more than the graduate with an associate's degree, the graduate with a master's degree more than the graduate with a bachelor's degree and so on.



There are exceptions, however, and they have to do in part with the occupation as well as the individual. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests that students with associate's degrees who go on to work as dental hygienists, nuclear technicians, computer specialists, fashion designers and radiation therapists on average earn between $62,600 to $68,600 a year. A social worker with a bachelor's degree, on the other hand, might earn $45,000 a year even with 15 years of experience, Payscale.com shows.



Some wondered for a time also whether the type of college or university - Ivy league institutions that tend to cost more, for instance - produce higher paid graduates. A Payscale.com survey published in the New York Times in 2009 suggested that graduates of engineering schools were paid the highest starting salaries, while Ivy League graduates earned more at mid-career. College and university majors made a difference: Those who earned engineering, economics, math and science degrees earned some of the top 20 highest paid starting and mid-career median salaries, the Payscale.com survey showed. In Florida, community college graduates with associate's degrees were also found to earn higher entry-level salaries than those who obtained bachelor's degrees from public and private colleges and universities.



The Miami Herald and the St. Petersburg Times on Jan. 4 didn't single out individual institutions but showed that, in general, students graduating with bachelor's degrees from Florida's public and private universities in 2009 were provided average starting salaries respectively of $36,552 and $44,558 annually as compared with the $47,708 that students graduating with associate's degrees in science from community colleges earned. Students with bachelor's degrees over time, however, might expect to earn more based on their potential for advancements in the workplace, the article noted.



At least one expert in The Herald and St. Petersburg Times suggested also that community colleges tend to train students for in-demand careers in areas such as nursing, dental assisting and auto collision repair. "Green collar" jobs also are said to be experiencing increased demand. In Toledo, a university as well as a community college are offering associate's degrees in alternative energy, according to a Jan. 18 report in Toledo on the Move. The associate's degree programs would train students in developing, installing and maintaining alternative energy systems, the Toledo on the Move article noted.



In Worcester County, Mass., community colleges might see increased enrollment as a result of new sheriff's department hiring policies. The News Telegram on Jan. 20 reported on a new requirement that sheriff's department employees either have associate's degrees or two years of experience in the military. The county sheriff centered some of his new hiring policies on those that other sheriff's departments in the state already have in place, the News Telegram noted.



Many two-year colleges are also collaborating more often with four-year institutions in their area. The Orlando Business Journal on Jan. 19 noted that a two-year associate's degree in architecture was part of a new partnership that took students on to bachelor's and master's degrees in architecture at a university in Florida. Students in Pennsylvania who obtain an associate's degree from community colleges in the area are able to apply all of their academic credits toward fulfilling Allentown college's general education requirements in instances where they enroll in the institution's School of Adult and Graduate Education, according to a Jan. 20 article in The Morning Call. In Tennessee, a community college and a technical university have established a "dual admissions" program partnership where students are offered a more structured means of completing an associate's degree at the community college and moving on to a bachelor's degree program at the technical university, a Jan. 19 article on knoxnews.com noted.

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Associate Degree Nursing: Pros And Cons In Earning An Associate Nursing Degree Online

An associate degree nursing is almost the same as that of an LPN or an LVN. An associate degree nursing is a two-year program structured to focus on direct skills and and care of health care management. The good thing about an associate degree is it caters mainly to those who have financial constraints. The short length of the course significantly lowers down any further costs allowing it to be more affordable in terms of nursing profession while it directly prepares graduates to provide care for patients in hospitals, long-term care facilities, or in doctor's offices. Focusing more on technical skills, an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree is considered to be the stepping stone for nursing applicants looking into completing their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.



The fastest way that you can start on earning your associate degree nursing would be through online universities. With online programs designed in such a way as to fit the convenience of nursing applicants where they can greatly enhance their career without having to sacrifice time for their family and work. All you would need upon admission would be your high school diploma or the equivalent GED. Some online universities may require you to take basic skills test before admission. Before enrolling, you may need to do research for nursing programs featured in accredited universities. This way you can compare the admission criteria and find out which criteria would best suit your needs. A list of the pros and cons with regard to an associate nursing degree should help you get prepared for the task ahead.



Pros



Online Degree - With the convenience of earning your associate degree nursing online, you won't need to sacrifice time to travel getting from work to school. You can save precious time for work, family, and study by just having to log online to access your classes. Another convenience for earning your nursing degree online is you can complete your classes at your own pace and in your own time.



Accelerated Programs - With accelerated programs you can have your previous courses credited in order to inch up you nursing degree. If you're already working, you can have your clinical hours integrated as part of the program's curriculum.



Online Options - With countless accredited university options online, you won't have a hard time finding one that suits your program needs.



Cons



Being Internet Savvy - Online education doesn't really require a person to be technically savvy, however, basic internet skills such as chatting, surfing the net, and the likes are needed for you to get around with your online classes.



Online Discussion vs. Classroom Lecture - There are some students who learn more through an active classroom lecture in contrast to just an online discussion of the lesson. In this case, if a face-to-face interaction with a teacher is needed, an online program may not work for you.



Internet Connection - Since most of your associate degree nursing classes are conducted online, you will need to have a steady internet connection. Most online universities do not issue refunds for missed classes.



These are just some of the things you need to keep in mind when applying for an associate degree nursing online. The few disadvantages mentioned are manageable provided that you would be able to work around with them.

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Affordable and Fast Nursing Degree Online Programs and Colleges

Many online colleges offer nursing programs that are affordable and relatively fast. If you are looking for an RN to BSN program, or looking to obtain a master's degree in the science of nursing, there are several online colleges and universities that can meet your needs. An online degree website can provide you with specific information.



Chamberlain College of Nursing offers an RN to BSN degree that is a fast track. The RN student will receive 85 credits toward the bachelor's degree and can earn up to 10 additional credits for work experience. A bachelor's degree in the science of nursing can be earned by completing 12 courses that are offered in eight-week sessions.



You can decide how many courses you can do at a time and still meet your work schedule and other obligations. More job opportunities, increased wages, and more portability come with a BSN degree. The average salary increase from an associates prepared nurse to a BSN is $5,000 annually.



University of Phoenix offers both bachelors and master degree programs. You can start almost anytime. Course work is done in teams online. As in all online degree programs you will have clinical experiences locally with a local preceptor. The average salary increase from a BSN to an MSN is $6,000 annually.



Walden University also offers a masters in nursing science online education program. Several different tracks are offered. You will be able to complete your course work online on your own schedule and will arrange your clinical experiences with a local preceptor.



These are some of the schools that offer the chance to advance your nursing career, by completing a degree program online. Salary increases in nursing are out pacing any other profession. Now is the time to explore the possibility of advancing your degree and guaranteeing your future.

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Registered Nurses Salaries

Within the broad spectrum of healthcare, RNs make up the largest workforce group because of the fundamental role they play in caring for patients and running a healthcare facility. Because of the demand for these openings, job opportunities are in healthy supply and allow RNs to have more specific choices in where they work and, in some cases, what shifts they will work. However, as patient care is required around the clock, shift choice is not always an option.



Registered nurses salaries have increased steadily over the recent past by approximately $10,000 to $15,000 annually; almost a 5% increase from two years prior. Some RNs have more responsibility allowing for even higher increases in salary. Dedicated nurses are often placed in charge of a facility and put in charge of other nursing staff.



RNs pursue their career because of their dedication to helping people and their interest in health and sciences. RNs carry out a number of functions depending upon their area of work. They work to document medical information on a patient including medication regimes, allergies, history of the patient, and health concerns. They also document any new information that is pertinent to maintaining accurate records. Many nurses provide education and advice to their patients, their patients' families, and also to the public. Registered nurses offer support and provide treatment and care to those in need. An RN may operate medical equipment for diagnostic testing or treatment methods, and they often administer medication and immunizations.



The current staffing trends are expected to continue throughout the healthcare system; specifically with registered nursing staff. The employment rate for RNs is expected to grow by over 22% within the next five years. In response to this employment rate many students have made this their study of choice. Those employing registered nurses prefer their nurses to hold, at least, an associate degree; however, they are even more likely to hire a registered nurse holding a bachelor's degree. On average 36% of registered nurses hold an associate's degree, 39% hold a bachelor's degree, 11% hold a master's degree, and 0.6% of RNs hold a doctoral degree. On the lower end of the spectrum for registered nurse's salary is approximately $44,000 which is earned by approximately 10% of all RNs. On the higher end of the spectrum are those RNs earning approximately $94,000, representing about 10% of RNs also. The remaining 80% vary between the two figures.

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Online Nursing Degree - Increase Your Wages

Nursing wages have increased on average 36%, from 1986 to 2005. Getting a bachelor or masters degree online will put you in position to take advantage of this rise. Nursing wages have increase more than teachers, lawyers, and even doctors.



Obviously as your nursing education advances, so do your wages. The average salary for a LPN/LVN is $40,000, for an Associates Degree nurse $61,000, a bachelors prepared nurse $66,000 and a masters prepared nurse $72,000.



You can continue to collect your current wages while doing an online nursing degree program. You will be able to do your coursework around your work schedule in your own home.



Many NLN accredited colleges and universities now offer online nursing degree education programs. With an online course, you are not limited geographically and earn a degree from schools all over the United States. You can arrange your clinical experience in your local area.



By the year 2020, there will be a need for 1.7 million nurses. Due to the lack of nursing educators only 600,000 new nurses will graduate. These spastics demonstrate that as nurses are more in demand, wages will have to increase. Now is the time to be prepared to take advantage of the current situation. Online nursing schools allow more and more nurses to prepare themselves for the future.



At the end of this article are links to an online college degree website where you can search for a school that meets your needs. You will be able to search for specific programs and specific schools. You will find information about classes, tuition costs, and financial aid. You will also have the opportunity to have access to a advisor. Most importantly you will be able to apply right online to a number of schools and start down the path to a better financial future.

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MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) Salary Range

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is one of the few degrees that offer nurses further specialization in a specific field. As a graduate holding a master degree in nursing you may be well qualified to serve in a leadership role at a health-care facility or as a member of a university faculty. The degree even allows you to advance your career in the nursing field.



Once you complete your MSN program or earn a MSN degree, you may advance your healthcare career and become an administrator or supervisor. Adding to this, you may also work as a clinical nurse specialist (CNS), a nurse midwife, a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA), a nurse practitioner, or a nurse psychotherapist, among others. These days, many MSN graduates act as specialists in areas that include community health, management and geriatrics.



Apart from all this, earning a master's degree in nursing allows you to focus and widen your opportunities for having bigger responsibilities and even earn more money. In fact, in terms of salary, the nurse who holds a MSN degree enjoys a decent income. Though working as a MSN graduate may have its own share of challenges and responsibilities, but it even offers tremendous rewards along with salary range that can be beyond any evaluation to any other profession.



Although it is easy to generalize what a nurse with a master's degree may earn, but generally salaries greatly differ when specialties are concerned. Nurse with a master's degree in ambulatory care can earn an average yearly income of $44,000. Adding to this, a nurse with a degree in nurse management can have the potential to earn an average of $65,000 a year in that field. The highest earning nurse in the health care industry is often the nurse practitioner.



The working location also plays a very major role for a nurse who holds a MSN degree, even when it comes to overtime. Certain medical facilities or centers compensate overtime by paying a high hourly rate, while others pay off the time by increasing time off. If the reimbursement comes as an hourly pay, in that situation the pay rate usually differs from one specialty to another. Nurses may acquire their hourly pay by the number of beds or by the size of the supervised staff.



In next few years the employment opportunities for nurses having master's degree is expected to grow at an average rate. Tough the opportunities may differ by region of the United States, but with the increase in job opportunities the salary range is expected to boost in next few years in the United States.

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Numerous Reasons to Become a Nurse

Nursing is a field that has always been known for job security. Even in tough economic times, nursing shortages persist. Hospitals may reduce the number of nurses to save money, but that reduction in no way reflects the need for well qualified nurses who can provide exceptional patient care. A registered nurse performs patient care duties under the direction of a physician. The nurse carries out a physician's orders regarding medication administration and patient care. A nurse must be able to assess patient needs, write care plans, monitor progress and respond to emergencies in a calm and competent manner.



There are numerous reasons to consider nursing as a career. Nurses earn better than average pay. Entry level registered nurses earn starting salaries in the neighborhood of $40,000 per year. A nurse who becomes a specialist in an area such as anesthesiology or one who chooses to become a nurse practitioner can eventually earn a six figure salary. Flexibility in scheduling is another reason to consider nursing as a career. While nurses work evenings, weekends and holidays, schedules can often be adjusted to meet the nurse's needs. Some nurses prefer working shifts such as three 12 hour days which allow them to have more consecutive days off between shifts. Others may prefer working standard 8 hour shifts. Outside of the hospital and long-term care setting, nurses can work regular hours in physician's offices, mental health centers, schools and health departments.



Becoming a registered nurse requires earning a degree or diploma in the field and taking a state licensing examination. The good news is that there are several avenues to earning nursing credentials. An individual who is interested into getting into professional nursing quickly can enroll in an associate degree program at a community college or junior college. The associate degree can be earned in two years. Associate degree nurses take courses necessary to meet the requirements for the licensing exam, but do not take a lot of electives due to the length of the program. Another option is a hospital diploma program. Nursing students in these programs can complete the diploma in two to three years in this type of program, which is structured similar to the associate degree program. The bachelor of science in nursing program takes four years to complete and is offered by colleges or universities. Within the bachelor's degree program a nursing student has the opportunity to take some electives and additional nursing courses to prepare for a role as a nursing administrator. All three programs prepare nurses to sit for the state licensing exam.

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Registered Nursing - A Job With More Bang For Your Educational Buck

If you're looking for a good-paying job and you'd like to start working quickly, you might want to consider registered nursing.



In a 2006 article, CNN lists registered nursing as one of the ten best-paying jobs that can be obtained with an associate's degree. In the article, they note that a job requiring an Associate's Degree often pays better than many jobs requiring bachelor's degrees. They quote an average annual salary of around $52,000 for registered nurses, which is a job that can be obtained with a two year Associate's Degree from an accredited nursing program.



Your state board of nursing will have a list of accredited nursing programs in your area or all throughout the state.



There are also four year bachelor's of science in nursing programs available, but those do not necessarily come with higher pay. Either way, with an ADN or a BSN degree, once you take and pass the NCLEX-RN exam, you are a registered nurse.



Some hospitals, doctor's offices, clinics, etc. pay more for nurses with a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing, and some don't. The pay is generally not going to be drastically higher.



Another advantage of getting an Associate's Degree in Nursing first is that once you get that degree, you can take an ADN to BSN course either at an online nursing school or at a local college, and you can do it part-time while you are working. Odds are good that your employer will pay for some or all of your education in exchange for an agreement to remain working with that employer for a specified amount of time.



If you want to move into a manager's position as a nurse, you will almost certainly need to get a Bachelor's Degree of Science in Nursing, but again, that can be obtained after you have gotten your ADN degree and your job with that nice paycheck rolling in every week.

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RN Salary: A Review of How to Make Great Earnings As an RN

People are shifting occupations since the economy swings and many are eyeing for an RN salary. Authorized nurses generate great revenue and you only need the same associate degree as other courses to become a nurse. That is appealing to men and women trying to take up a job. Additionally it is alluring those who find themselves trying to switch occupations since the time commitment isn't as critical as it is with other professions. Start to generate RN salary in just three years for those who have not obtained a course in college before. In the event you have a college degree, you might already have many of the prerequisite studies and be able to finish nursing school in less than a term.



How Much You Think an RN Salary Is?



An RN salary will vary according to where you live. Generally, brand new nurses may make around $30,000 annually and an expert registered nurse can make as much as $80,000 a year. Wherever you are the earnings can be better than they are for most jobs having a similar level of education. This really is due to the expertise standards for these quite crucial healthcare personnel. You are compensated not just for your academic degree but furthermore for the particular clinical capabilities which you have shown in the college student nursing period.



A fantastic part that you may make your RN salary right after graduation is in postpartum RN jobs. This area supports why lots of people really want to enter into nursing. They would like to assist people and help save lives. In assisting moms soon after delivery, these people experience the joy of knowing and seeing that they are helping folks.



A number of people go into medical care because they want to make an RN salary while they carry out crucial assistance for folks who are in need. A dialysis nurse salary will not dissatisfy them and they're going to get to work directly with individuals who will be in great need. Healthcare professionals within this crucial field have regular salaries of more than $60,000 annually.



If you are really looking forward to an RN salary plus the fact that you want to be of help to other people then you should look into programs for registered nurses at your local colleges. You may also find more information through the internet. You can even have 2 years of extensive training in a nursing school.

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Select An Online Associate Nursing Degree Program

The best part of any online associate nursing degree program is that it does not require you study for years and attend the classes regularly. In fact, you can get an online associate nursing degree within a short time and carry out the studies from home. The program will help you acquire the skills required for the job as well as give you the much in demand certification. The online associate nursing degree program will let you have jobs at the reputed hospitals and clinics offering handsome salaries.



Online nursing training has too many advantages



It's the convenience of the online associate nursing degree program that has attracted so many women to this curriculum. You need to devote minimum time and effort to complete the online nursing course. But it does not mean that the training you will get is of lower standards. The online nursing schools who are offering the courses have developed the online associate nursing degree program is such a way that it rightly prepares the candidates for the industry and you can greatly benefit from the courses.



The online nursing education is particularly beneficial for the students who are not in a position to attend conventional schools or colleges. This is another reason that so many people are keen to get an online nursing degree. The online training model gives you the freedom of taking the course in the pace that is convenient for you. You can make your own schedule that will let you make good use of your spare time.



All said and done, you should always keep in mind that online associate nursing degree program prepares you with the theoretical aspects of the training. For the practical and hands on training of the subject, which is an indispensable part of the nursing training, you have to get training at a medical facility near to you. It will let you have the first hand experience of the nursing job.

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What Colleges Or Universities Offer the Best Online Associate Nursing Degree Programs - From a Nurse

As a registered nurse myself, when I went through nurse's training through a local college, there were no online nursing degrees available. I know it would have saved me a lot of time and energy especially with young children at home. Now there are many ways to get the best online associate nursing degree, and your online bachelor's and master's degree in nursing too if you decide to get additional education.



You'll find there are many different ways to go and a variety of types of schools. Many online colleges and universities offer online degrees in nursing and other medical and health fields as well. They may not have an on-campus program however for nurses and nurses-to-be.



First of all you want to research what is available online for those colleges and universities that have an on-campus associate nursing degree program in your community. You'll find that you won't be able to do all of your associate degree nursing education online because you need to get experience in the hospital. That means learning how to give shots, learning how to give treatments and learning all about the equipment, working with animal cadavers, working with patients in a hospital setting and so on. But you'll be able to take a number of nursing and other courses that don't require in-hospital or in-lab work.



So you may end up with courses taken at more than one college, community college or university. So if that's the way you choose to go you have to be very careful that the schools will accept credit transfers from any of the other online or on campus schools you're attending.



So it's better to check this out in person with someone in authority at the on-campus school they'll transfer to just to make doubly sure.



You may need to be accepted into a nursing program first in an on-campus school in order to know what courses you need to take and in what order is required, if any, and for many other reasons etc.



So you want to locate the closest nursing schools, colleges and universities to you that have the best associate nursing degree programs. If there are more than one you do want to compare. One of the schools may not offer online classes or an online nursing degree program.



You can do a lot of research online with the colleges and universities that do offer the best online associate nursing degree programs and nursing courses to help get your nursing degree. But make sure you find a local school to work with for the training that may be required in a hospital. You may have to travel to a larger city for that part if you don't have a nursing school near your home.

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Online Nursing Degrees - The Right Choice For You?

Online nursing degrees are growing in popularity as more people rush to enter the lucrative, highly in-demand field of nursing.



Online degrees offer some wonderful advantages. You can take classes at whatever time of day is convenient for you. You can work full-time and still earn a salary while getting your degree. You can bring your laptop with you and study and send in homework assignments while you are on the bus or subway, at the beach, or at the coffeeshop. You don't have to spend time and gasoline driving to a college campus, looking for parking, walking half a mile to your building, walking back....
However, online nursing degrees do have their limitations.



First of all, there is currently only one online program in the country that we know of - the University of Wisconsin at Oshkosh - that allows a person with no healthcare degree or certificate to get their nursing degree. They take a limited number of students, they require you to have a previous bachelor's degree, you must have completed a number of science and other prerequisites, and they grant an accelerated second bachelor's degree. Most of the program is online, but you must go to the campus in Oshkosh several times, AND not every state offers the clinicals that are required for the program.



What is much more common are programs that allow an LPN or a paramedic to take a "bridge" program which allows the LPN to complete their associate degree and become a registered nurse. An example of this is Chamberlain College of Nursing. Excelsior College and many others offer these opportunities as well.



You can also, after you get your associate's degree in nursing, take online classes to get a bachelor's of science in nursing. This frequently will result in a higher salary, and also, if you want to progress into managerial positions, you generally need at least a BSN.



There are online nursing degree programs which grant master's degrees in nursing as well.
Also, you can take many of your prerequisites online - English, psychology, nutrition, etc. You need to have those completed before you are accepted into an LPN to RN bridge program.



For information and links to a bunch of great online nursing degree programs, click here: http://nursingschoolprograms.com/online-nursing-degree-programs



IMPORTANT NOTE: Not every state accepts these online nursing programs. For example Florida does not recognize Excelsiors paramedic to lpn program, so if you took that program, you would not be able to sit for the NCLEX-RN program in Florida. You must check with your state board of nursing before you sign up with the online program, because you do not want to spend all that time and money and find out that you are not eligible to sit for the NCLEX, which is the test that you must pass in order to be licensed as a nurse.

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Associate Degree In Nursing - The First Step Towards A Better Career

In the past, the only way you for you to become a nurse is by taking a bachelor of science in nursing course. Most people set aside their dreams of becoming a nurse because of the lack of financial resources to complete a bachelor of science in nursing degree. Luckily, there is now hope for you to become a nurse without having to spend all your life savings. The associate degree in nursing is the faster and cheaper way to becoming a nurse.



Less Time and Fewer Expenses



An associate degree in nursing only takes 2 years to complete which is a far cry from the 4 years that it takes to complete a bachelor of science in nursing degree. Since it takes less time to complete, it can only mean that it will also be cheaper. The cost of education is always dependent on the length of the course. Think of the 2 years worth of tuition fees that you will be saving by taking up an associate degree in nursing. Add to that the other expenses that you need for gas, books and school supplies. By cutting the course in half, you will be able to finish your degree quicker and be able to start working and earning money as a nurse.



The Curriculum



The curriculum of the associate degree in nursing covers all the technical skills needed in the nursing profession. Aside from that, students are also taught the fundamentals of science, mathematics as well as written and oral English. These are all the subject areas that are covered in the 4-year degree but they have just been compressed into a 2-year degree.



Eligibility For Licensure Exams



Although the associate degree in nursing is just a 2-year course, you will still be eligible to take the NCLEX as well as the licensure exam for nursing. Even if it took you less time to complete, you can still become a registered nurse after you pass the licensure exam.



Job Opportunities



A graduate of an associate degree in nursing is highly qualified for nursing positions at any hospital, clinic or health care facility. Finding a job is not a problem since there are a lot of job opportunities waiting for nursing graduates. This is perhaps the best advantage of this degree because the length of the course is shorter so you can also begin earning money as a nurse quicker.

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How to Get a Nursing Associate Degree Online

Why sure you can. Although a nursing degree typically requires clinical practice on top of academics, you can still get a nursing degree through an online program. It's hard to imagine a person gain hands on experience in a clinic or hospital over the internet, in fact it is impossible.



It is for this reason that when one starts their nursing associate degree online with a legitimate and accredited program, hospitals and/or clinics near the student's home will allow clinical time just the same as nurses studying in the classroom. It is the academics that are covered online; the practical stuff is always covered in a practical location.



Okay, so how do classes work?



Well, this varies from school to school, but with recent growing demands for nurses and nursing students, many facilities are opening up entire programs online. Typically the nursing associate degree online will have a site where instructors post lectures and assignments for their students to download and complete. Many also have discussion or bulletin boards where students and instructors can communicate freely with each other and help each other with questions and concerns, or just get to know one another. In this way a virtual classroom environment is created.



Are exams done online as well?



Again, this varies from school to school. Some will perform exams online, while others (usually the ones affiliated with universities and colleges) will provide online students with a designated time and location to write their exam; while others still have chosen to replace the traditional exams with written coursework placing high emphasis on assignments.



It is these schools which are gaining in popularity because they give the students the freedom to study at their own pace and in their spare time. There are growing numbers of people turning to online nursing programs as a way to escape their dead end and minimum wage jobs, without having to quit until their program is complete. Let's face it, a single mother of two working as a waitress in a diner can't afford to take much time off to go to nursing school.



However, she can study for a nursing associate degree online in the very little amount of free time she can muster, and not have to worry about finding the money to feed her children. Not all online programs allow you study at your own pace or fast track however. Most of the nursing associate degree online programs offered through colleges and universities are structured around the same schedule as their classroom programs. Assignments are due on the same dates and exams are taken at the same time.

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Get Your Nursing Career Started With an Associate Nursing Degree

Health care industry is projected to be one of the major growing businesses in 10 years down the road. The demand for health care professionals will always be there. This is good news for those who are interested in starting their career in health care sector because their career future is brighter and secured. Nursing field is key area of health care industry where the major growth will take place. Registered nurses constitute the largest health care occupation with 2.6 million jobs. If you are interested to start your career in nursing field, an associate nursing degree can be your jump start education option.



You have choices to earn your associate nursing degree through campus-based college or through online education. Online associate nursing degree program provides you with a flexible and convenient learning environment and without disturbing your normal life if you manage your time properly. Through online education, you can complete your associate nursing degree program in the shortest period of time depends entirely on your self-motivation and discipline to schedule your learning pace.



Generally, online school will give you a number of options that you can choose from while undertaking your online nursing degree program. The biggest advantage of online nursing degree programs is flexibility that allows you to plan for your study time that fit into your busy working schedule or time spend with your family members. In additional to that, online degree program allows you to login to online classes from any place as long as the place offer internet connection. That's why online associate nursing degree program quickly become one of the most viable option for working adults to start or make a career switch to nursing field.



The associate nursing degree is your career ladder that enables you to get started your nursing career by preparing you for the National Council of Licensure Examination for registered nurses (NCLEX-RN). There are two types of associate nursing degree program, associate degree program for individuals with no previous nursing education or Licensed Practical Nurses who have nursing experience. The courses for these two types of nursing degree programs have differences; make sure you are selecting the right category when choosing the nursing program.



The associate nursing degree earned by you will enable you to start your nursing career as entry position in most hospitals and health care centers. Average earnings of a registered nurse with an associate nursing degree range from $40,000 to $45,000 annually. Once you become a Registered Nurse with an associate degree in nursing, you can always take advantage of tuition reimbursement benefits offered by the hospital or company you work with to work toward a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) by completing an RN-to-BSN program. A BSN will prepare you for a broader scope of nursing practice and move your nursing career to a higher level with higher annual earnings.



Summary



Starting or switching your career to nursing field is a wise choice as the industry is growing rapidly which generate a great number of job opportunities. And, an associate nursing degree is a good stepping stone for you to bridge your career into the nursing sector.

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Associate Degree Nursing: Pros And Cons In Earning An Associate Nursing Degree Online

An associate degree nursing is almost the same as that of an LPN or an LVN. An associate degree nursing is a two-year program structured to focus on direct skills and and care of health care management. The good thing about an associate degree is it caters mainly to those who have financial constraints. The short length of the course significantly lowers down any further costs allowing it to be more affordable in terms of nursing profession while it directly prepares graduates to provide care for patients in hospitals, long-term care facilities, or in doctor's offices. Focusing more on technical skills, an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree is considered to be the stepping stone for nursing applicants looking into completing their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.



The fastest way that you can start on earning your associate degree nursing would be through online universities. With online programs designed in such a way as to fit the convenience of nursing applicants where they can greatly enhance their career without having to sacrifice time for their family and work. All you would need upon admission would be your high school diploma or the equivalent GED. Some online universities may require you to take basic skills test before admission. Before enrolling, you may need to do research for nursing programs featured in accredited universities. This way you can compare the admission criteria and find out which criteria would best suit your needs. A list of the pros and cons with regard to an associate nursing degree should help you get prepared for the task ahead.



Pros



Online Degree - With the convenience of earning your associate degree nursing online, you won't need to sacrifice time to travel getting from work to school. You can save precious time for work, family, and study by just having to log online to access your classes. Another convenience for earning your nursing degree online is you can complete your classes at your own pace and in your own time.



Accelerated Programs - With accelerated programs you can have your previous courses credited in order to inch up you nursing degree. If you're already working, you can have your clinical hours integrated as part of the program's curriculum.



Online Options - With countless accredited university options online, you won't have a hard time finding one that suits your program needs.



Cons



Being Internet Savvy - Online education doesn't really require a person to be technically savvy, however, basic internet skills such as chatting, surfing the net, and the likes are needed for you to get around with your online classes.



Online Discussion vs. Classroom Lecture - There are some students who learn more through an active classroom lecture in contrast to just an online discussion of the lesson. In this case, if a face-to-face interaction with a teacher is needed, an online program may not work for you.



Internet Connection - Since most of your associate degree nursing classes are conducted online, you will need to have a steady internet connection. Most online universities do not issue refunds for missed classes.



These are just some of the things you need to keep in mind when applying for an associate degree nursing online. The few disadvantages mentioned are manageable provided that you would be able to work around with them.

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How Do I Get an Online Associates Degree in Nursing?

Earning a degree online is becoming more and more popular. The flexibility online courses offer benefits the student greatly. Those looking to get an Associates Degree in Nursing (ADN) online can take advantage of the benefits and flexibility an online course of study has to offer.



When earning your ADN online, you complete the non-clinical courses online. Clinical classes must be completed at a medical facility. There are no online ADN programs which allow you to fully complete your degree online.



To find schools that offer an Associates Degree in Nursing online, you will need to do a little research on the Internet. On one of the reliable search engines, type in the key words that will help you find schools you are interested in. At the very least you should type in the words "Associates Degree Nursing Online." You may also want to type in the name of the state or states that you would like your program to be in.



The search engine will present you with links to many online schools. Spend some time looking at a number of them to see if they offer what you are looking for.



There are several things you should look at when deciding which school is right for you.



Find out if it the program is a work at your own pace program or one that works by semesters. A work at your own pace program will allow you to do just that - finish the work at a pace that suits you. Many programs, however, are structured and have semesters like a traditional college.



Find out when you can start. Some online programs have rolling enrollment, meaning you can start at any point. Others have a designated start date.



Find out if your will have an academic advisor. Most likely you will, but it is important that you are assigned one. The advisor will work with you closely to help you plan out your course of study, help keep you on track, connect you with other students, and coordinate your clinical classes.



Find out the costs of the program. All programs will charge different tuition. A thorough search of different programs will help you find the one that is right for you and the most affordable.



Find out if the school offers financial aide. Many online programs do. You may want to take advantage of it.



Find out where you will be able to perform your clinical courses. Make sure the facility is one that is within a reasonable distance for you.



Once you have done your research, you can narrow your choices down to a few online schools and begin the application process for your Associates Degree in Nursing.

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What is the Future of Associate Degree Nursing Programs?

Associate degrees are academic degrees awarded by community colleges, junior colleges, business colleges, four-year universities, and some other universities that regularly award bachelor's degrees. The main difference of an associate degree from a bachelor's degree is the length of time spent on the course, and the number of units completed.



Associate degrees are usually awarded for two-year courses. Many view these as less worthy than bachelor's degrees, but that does not mean the associate degree holder is any less knowledgeable in the field of specialty. These courses reduce requirements by dropping subjects that are not directly related to the field of study from the course list. The end result is a course that provides full knowledge in the specific area of interest. This means that associate degree holders are fully qualified, as far as the field of specialization is concerned.



The main reasons people these courses are: so they can get to work as soon as possible, these courses are less expensive, more night classes -- helpful for those who already have day jobs. Associate degree program graduates can also transfer to bachelor's programs after completion.



For some people, getting to work right away is a necessity. With an associate degree nursing program, you can be ready for the National Council Licensure Exam - Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN) in two years instead of the usual four. This means you could get started earning money in half the time. Just because it is only half the length of a bachelor's degree program does not mean you do not get the same level of education as bachelor's degree holders. The associate degree nursing program is a streamlined, fast-track approach to nursing education, trimming away the subjects that do not play any significant role in nursing practice. Think of it as doing away with extra subjects that you will not need anyway. This also means you can concentrate more on what matters: the improvement of nursing knowledge and skills.



These programs are also less expensive than the equivalent bachelor's degree programs. By doing away with those units and classes outside of the field of specialization, you effectively reduce the total cost of the program by a large percentage. The savings do not apply only to the course fees, but also to costs of living. By taking only two years to finish your course, you take less time studying and living off savings and loans and get started making money sooner. This gives you a great head start in the workforce.



Lastly, it gives advantages of more convenient classes for those who are already working. Many people want to earn more, and so they take these short programs to acquire the necessary knowledge and experience. With their day jobs, they cannot attend the usual classes scheduled throughout the day. These programs offer classes at night, so those with day jobs have the opportunity to better themselves without sacrificing what they already have.



These advantages ensure the demand for associate degree programs in general, and nursing programs specifically. This demand is likely to rise, given the current state of the economy, so the future for associate degree nursing programs looks rosy.

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Associate Degree In Nursing - The First Step Towards A Better Career

In the past, the only way you for you to become a nurse is by taking a bachelor of science in nursing course. Most people set aside their dreams of becoming a nurse because of the lack of financial resources to complete a bachelor of science in nursing degree. Luckily, there is now hope for you to become a nurse without having to spend all your life savings. The associate degree in nursing is the faster and cheaper way to becoming a nurse.



Less Time and Fewer Expenses



An associate degree in nursing only takes 2 years to complete which is a far cry from the 4 years that it takes to complete a bachelor of science in nursing degree. Since it takes less time to complete, it can only mean that it will also be cheaper. The cost of education is always dependent on the length of the course. Think of the 2 years worth of tuition fees that you will be saving by taking up an associate degree in nursing. Add to that the other expenses that you need for gas, books and school supplies. By cutting the course in half, you will be able to finish your degree quicker and be able to start working and earning money as a nurse.



The Curriculum



The curriculum of the associate degree in nursing covers all the technical skills needed in the nursing profession. Aside from that, students are also taught the fundamentals of science, mathematics as well as written and oral English. These are all the subject areas that are covered in the 4-year degree but they have just been compressed into a 2-year degree.



Eligibility For Licensure Exams



Although the associate degree in nursing is just a 2-year course, you will still be eligible to take the NCLEX as well as the licensure exam for nursing. Even if it took you less time to complete, you can still become a registered nurse after you pass the licensure exam.



Job Opportunities



A graduate of an associate degree in nursing is highly qualified for nursing positions at any hospital, clinic or health care facility. Finding a job is not a problem since there are a lot of job opportunities waiting for nursing graduates. This is perhaps the best advantage of this degree because the length of the course is shorter so you can also begin earning money as a nurse quicker.

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Nursing School - What Type Of Degree Is Best For You?

So you've decided on a career in nursing, but you don't quite know where to start. What type of nursing degree is best for you? What type of nursing school should you go to?



There are two basic types of nursing degrees: A degree in Licensed Practical Nursing, (called Licensed Vocational Nursing in some states) and a degree in Registered Nursing.



The LPN degree can be a good starting point for your nursing career. You need a high school diploma or GED to be accepted into an LPN school. Many community colleges and technical schools offer LPN degrees. Not many four-year state universities offer them. Some private, for-profit schools in your area probably offer them as well; Galen, Kaplan, Keiser, and the University of Phoenix are all examples of these types of schools.



LPNs earn less than registered nurses and work under the direction of registered nurses. Some hospitals will not hire LPNs and only hire registered nurses.



If you want to progress into a managerial position as a nurse, you will want to become a registered nurse. One way to do this is by becoming an LPN first and then, while you are working as an LPN, taking an LPN to RN program online or at your local community college. The advantage to this is that you will be working and bringing in a salary, and also, your employer will very likely help pay for your continuing education (usually in return for signing a contract that ensures that you will continue working for them for a specificfied period of time.)



Another way to do this is by getting an Associate's Degree in Nursing, which takes two years, or a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing, which takes four years. These are available at many two-year community colleges and four-year private and state colleges. Many private for-profit career schools are opening up these days which offer two-year Associate's Degree in Nursing Programs.



Once you get an Associate's Degree in nursing you are a Registered Nurse. If you want to earn more money and increase your hiring potential, you can working while taking classes part-time to get a Bachelor of Science Degree in nursing. Often your employer will pay for some or all of your educational expense.



If you want to be a manager, you will most likely have to have a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing, and many facilities will require a master's degree in nursing.



So which option is better for you? There are a number of considerations, such as how quickly you want to get your degree and start working. An LPN degree will get you working more quickly. However, if you know that you want to progress further in your career, possibly into a management position, and you have the time, money and ability to go to school for two to four years, you may want to consider obtaining a degree in registered nursing instead.

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Tips to Get Into Nursing Schools

There is a huge shortage of qualified nurses in hospitals, mainly because of the decreased number of graduates from nursing programs and colleges for nursing. Of the different types of nurses available for nursing duties, hospitals and health care centers and clinics prefer registered nurses.



Whether you want to become an RN or LPN, you have to first decide which nursing program you want to join. You can choose from pursuing a diploma, bachelor's degree or an associate degree.



You can earn a bachelor's of science degree in nursing from nursing colleges. It takes four years to complete. Nursing students can also consider obtaining another popular nursing degree, an associate of nursing degree.



This degree only needs two to three years for completion and is offered in community and junior colleges. However, as the number of hospital schools offering a nursing diploma is now decreasing, nursing diplomas are becoming less popular.



Besides there offline nursing colleges there are many online colleges for nursing offering programs at reasonable rates. Moreover, these nursing degrees can be completed at your leisure and obligation. If you complete your work fast, you can earn yourself your degree quickly and if you are late in completing your assignments, you will need extra time to earn your degree.



The admission requirements for different nursing colleges vary. So you have to be careful and vigilant when you apply for your nursing college. Basically, it is depending on whether you are looking to pursue your degree in a private or public institution and whether you want a 2 or 4 year course. Your application requirements also depend on whether you are applying for your nursing degree through a common application or not.



In addition to all this, the admission requirements for nursing colleges change with value and size of the institution. Students looking for admission to nursing colleges are usually assessed based on their academic grades, class ranks, their major grades, personal statement, SAT or ACT marks and whatever remarks or recommendations the school counselor gives about them.



When you apply to colleges for nursing, the colleges generally prefer students who come from the same state. Then again, there are some colleges that prefer SAT qualified students and some, who need a proof of immunization against some diseases.



Colleges for nursing also prefer students with emotional stability as they should be capable enough to make and take decisions when taking care of patients. In addition to this, they also have to be physically fit and be fluent in speaking, writing and reading English. This is to facilitate good communication with patients. They should also initially include chemistry and biology as their subjects.



The nursing colleges also check their students for any form of past criminal background. It is generally students who have excelled in their initial high school years who have a better chance of admission to colleges for nursing. If you have a passion for nursing and meet all these requirements, then you have to get an application form for your nursing program.

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How to Choose a Nursing Degree Program That Fits You

Nursing career opportunities are projected in 14% growth rate through out the next 10 years, which means there are good career opportunities for those who are interested to enter a career in nursing field. Students who choose to major in nursing or healthcare related program has a bright future in conjunction with the nursing job opportunities growth. There are many nursing program offered in largest universities as well as the smallest communities college, or you may choose to pursue a nursing degree online. But, you have to take a few considerations when selecting a nursing program that best fit you and meet your career goal.



Here are the questions to ask yourself when deciding which nursing program and the school to select for pursuing your nursing degree.



1. Should I get an ADN or BSN?



Although most nursing careers required just an associate degree in nursing or healthcare as the entry requirement for the jobs, but getting a bachelor or high degree has a great advantage for career advancement. Hence, it is essential for you to decide whether you want to go for an Associate's degree or a bachelor's degree. Although the BSN will take longer time and more credit hours to complete if compare to ADN and it also need more of the prerequisites for the enrollment, but with a BSN, you will set yourself apart from many other job seekers who are looking for employment or advancement. Hence, it may be advisable to get the BSN when you can.



2. Do I want to Stay local, Study abroad, or Study Online?



You have a few options to earn your nursing degree: earn the degree from a college or university near your place, without your country or you may want to study abroad at other country; or you may even choose to earn through online nursing degree program. You can take advantages of being an online student to take any nursing degree program offered by any university in the globe, as long as the program available online and it is recognized by your state's Board of Nursing.



3. How Will I Pay For The Tuition Fee?



Although ADN is a good option if you do not want to spend too much money but a BSN will put you at a better position to grab the best opportunity when you enter your nursing career afterward. In addition, there are a lot of financial aids either in term of scholarships or study loans offered by government and private sectors which you can apply to aid your study. You may want to consider applying them so that you can pursue a nursing degree without the worry about the money to pay for the tuition fee.



Summary



Nursing careers are in rapid growth rate which open up for many career opportunities. You are making right decision to select a nursing degree program, and by taking a few considerations, you are about to select the best nursing degree program that will inline with your career goal.

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Bachelor's Degree in Nursing

A bachelor's degree in nursing generally arms an individual with the knowledge, techniques and procedures for promoting health. It teaches how to care for and cure the sick, disabled and injured. It provides instruction in the administration of medication and treatment. One is allowed to assist a physician during treatment and examination, as a part of the internship program.



The 4-year BSN degree (also called a "Prelicensure BSN" program) is preferred by most nursing leaders, as it provides the best opportunities in today's job market.



BSN is a pre-requisite for various positions. It is only the entry point for professional nursing practice. Generally, the first one or two years of the program are spent fulfilling general education requirements, while the last two to three years are spent on nursing courses.



There are various types of nursing degrees for people who wish to pursue a bachelor's degree in nursing. The LPN program offers a licensed practicing nurse or a licensed vocational nurse an opportunity to attain the BSN degree in just four academic semesters. The RN is a program designed for Registered Nurse (RN), graduates of associate degree or diploma programs, who want to complete their BSN degree. It provides credit for nursing skills that are already learned through school or work experience.



Quite often, these programs are available with a very flexible schedule, designed to meet the needs of working nurses. Classes might be held only in the evenings or on weekends. Second degree BSN programs are designed for non-nurses who have acquired bachelors' degrees in non-nursing fields. These programs give credit for having completed the liberal arts requirements, allowing one to complete the nursing portion of coursework in two academic years or less.



A variation of the second degree BSN program is an accelerated BSN program. In addition to giving one credit for having completed the liberal arts requirements, an accelerated BSN program allows one to complete the undergraduate nursing course requirements earlier than the students enrolled in a traditional BSN program. Accelerated BSN programs usually take 12 months to complete, though some programs may even run for 16 to 20 months. A 3.0 GPA is often an entrance requirement for both second degree and accelerated BSN programs.

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Top Associate's Degrees to Land Health Care Jobs

It's no secret that health care is one of the most stable and rapidly-growing industries you can enter today. What you may not know, though, is that you don't need an MD to work in health care. An Associate's degree can start you on a path to the operating room (or the emergency room, or anywhere else you'd like to work), where you'll be helping doctors, nurses and patients in just two years (or less).



Sound too good to be true? See for yourself. Check out these health care careers you can start with a diploma, certificate, or Associate's degree.



Surgical Technician Degrees
Scalpel. Sutures. Bandages. When a nurse or surgeon needs help during operating procedures, surgical technicians are there to provide valuable support. But before you can don those infamous green hospital scrubs, you'll need the hands on-training provided by a certificate, diploma or Associate's degree program.



Respiratory Therapist
If you've ever suffered through an asthma attack or watched someone struggle with emphysema, you know the important role respiratory therapists play in the health care industry. An Associate's degree will give you the background in anatomy, chemistry and pharmacology that you'll need to help patients manage their breathing rate, breathing medication, and other treatments.



Registered Nurse
One of the best-kept health care secrets is that there's not just one, but three ways to become a registered nurse. One is a traditional, four-year Bachelor's of Science in Nursing. Another is a three-year diploma program administered by a hospital. And the third is a two-year Associate's of Science in Nursing, which is offered by community colleges, junior colleges and technical schools. With an Associate's degree, you'll learn all you need to diagnose illnesses, treat injuries, and provide treatment plans to patients.



Radiologic Technologist
Radiologic technologists don't have magic x-ray glasses; they have something better. They have chemical solutions, magnetic resonance imaging (aka MRI), and x-ray machines that can take images of our bodies and internal organs to help doctors diagnose illness. To learn how to use these tools, radiologic technologists start with specialized Associate's degrees.



For more information, check out these health care career profiles.

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Nursing Education - Where to Start If You Want to Pursue a Career in Nursing

For those who are interested in pursuing a career in nursing and getting landau scrubs free shipping, the first step is to apply in a nursing school that is accredited and state-approved. In the United States, there are more than 1,500 nursing programs and different types of training programs to choose from.



Nursing degree options



Primarily, you have three choices of what to take up depending on the specific nursing role you want to prepare for. You can take Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), or a Hospital Diploma. The Bachelor of Science Program is a four-year degree and is offered in most universities and colleges all over the county. An associate degree takes two years to finish and is offered in many junior or community colleges. Some universities and hospital schools of nursing also offer AND degrees. A Hospital Diploma is a two- to three-year program that is based in actual hospital settings. A lot of diploma schools offering this program are affiliated with junior colleges where students are required to take science and English courses. Of the three degrees, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing is the most comprehensive and provides the most opportunities for advancement in the nursing profession. It is also the most flexible degree and is required for those who wish to take up a master's degree in nursing later on.



Pursuing further studies



Thos who wish to pursue further studies such as a master's degree can advance their nursing career and practice in advanced specialty areas where the pay is a whole lot better. Fields that require a master degree in nursing include nurse anesthetist, nurse practitioner, nurse, midwife, clinical nurse specialist, and first assistant in the operating room. Those who wish to become a nurse researcher or a professor of nursing need to obtain a doctoral degree, in most cases.



General courses



Courses in nursing include classroom instruction as well as practical instruction in a hospital setting. Subjects taught in the classroom may include chemistry, biology, nursing theory and practice, social sciences, physics, and various humanities subjects. Students also get clinical hands-on experience supervised by the instructor inside hospitals and other health care environment.



Helpful characteristics



To succeed in nursing school, you need to have good study habits because it requires a lot of memorization of facts and the ability to apply these facts in various settings. Therefore, you also need to have excellent problem solving skills and critical thinking. To survive the rigorous demands of nursing school, you need to have a genuine interest to learn, confidence, determination, and a whole lot of patience. To excel in the profession, you need to have a natural ability to care for others and have a genuine interest to heal the sick or disabled.



Tuition fees



Tuition fees for nursing depend on whether you attend a public or private college and whether you are an American citizen or not. By far, the least expensive way to acquire a nursing degree is to attend a community college. Majority of nurses graduate from community college so it is not really a matter of the name of the school or how expensive the school is. Tuition in a community college average about $12 per unit, but this depends on your location and state.

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Nursing Employment - The Pros and Cons of This Profession

The health care industry is one of the most booming industries in the world today. This is one industry that is recession proof and has better job security than most other jobs. One of the most critical profiles in the healthcare industry is the profile of a nurse. A nurse is actually an umbrella term for a number of types of nurses. Here are the basic requirements of a nurse employment.



The nurses all over the world have to pass the required academics within the given time frame. There are several ways in which a person can become a nurse. Here is a brief list of the types of academics required to get a nurse employment.



Nursing Diploma



The simplest way to get into the nursing profession is by completing the three year 'Nursing Diploma'. This is a hospital based course, and the students have about thirty to sixty credit in the various aspects of medicine of physiology, microbiology, nutrition, and anatomy. There are other subjects that are covered at a subjects or the university. Most of the older registered nurses in the US have become registered nurses through this course.



Bachelor of Science in Nursing



The Bachelor of Science in Nursing is a four year degree course. This course prepares the nurses for education till the graduation level. This course teaches more about the nursing theory and research in the profession of nursing.



Associate Degree in Nursing



However, the most common type of education to become a nurse is the Associate Degree in Nursing. This is also known as Associate of Applied Science in Nursing, or Associate of Science in Nursing. This is a two year college degree. Though this is a two year course, but some four year colleges also offer the Associate Degree in Nursing.



Even before a person completes these courses, the person must complete a program that is recognized by the Nursing and Midwifery Council. The nurses also have to decide on which branch they wish to specialize in.



These are some ways in which a person can become a registered nurse. There are several advantages of being a nurse today. Here is a brief list of the advantages of being in the nursing employment.



1. You get into the medical profession.



One of the biggest advantages of being a nurse is that you are in a lucrative and royal profession like the medical profession. Being in the medical profession, you network with other doctors and can be sure that you would at least have some kind of support in the event of a medical emergency in your life.



2. You have the knowledge of illnesses and medicines.



One of the major problems that we face in our lives is that we do not know what the doctor is saying until they sit down and describe it to us. As a nurse, you will be knowledgeable about most of the terms and terminology in medical science. You will also be able to understand and decipher the problem much better as compared to the layperson.



Overview



Looking at it all, it is an undeniable fact that the nurse employment is a lucrative job as compared to many other professions.

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Nursing Degrees - BSN Or ADN

Nursing students are sometimes confused about what kind of nursing degree to obtain. The two choices nurses most often consider are between an Associates Degree in Nursing (ADN) , which usually takes two years to complete, or the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, which takes four years. Both of these nursing degrees lead to the Registered Nurse (RN) designation, but there are crucial differences between them. Choosing one over the other depends on financial factors, the length of time to be spent in an educational program, and long-term career goals.



The major differences between the two nursing degrees involve the length of time required to complete each program and the number of academic credits required. A typical ADN degree will take two years, compared to four years for the BSN - plus the time it takes to finish the prerequisites necessary to enroll in a BSN program. (This may not be a factor for individuals who already have Bachelor's degrees (BAs) from accredited institutions, since accelerated BSN programs allow them to complete all requirements in 18 to 21 months.)



While nursing instructors had previously believed that the ADN degree was likely to be phased out, the fact is that some 66 percent of current nursing graduates complete training programs resulting in the ADN or Associate of Science (AS) degrees. These Associate degrees continue to provide health care facilities with capable nurses who can manage patient care. As insufficient numbers of nurses are graduated from four-year BSN programs each year to meet the needs of the health care industry, two-year Associate degrees are expected to remain important for some time to come.



However, BSN programs prepare graduates more effectively to make critical patient care decisions and to question doctors when orders appear inappropriate. The education provided in a BSN program is more focused on critical thinking, exposing students to more people and cultures, and enhancing the skills required for nursing management. They also offer more opportunities to improve skills in patient assessment and provide a greater examination of disease pathophysiology. Nurses who have the BSN degree will also have an easier time winning faculty teaching positions and high-level administrative jobs.



In summary, ADN programs usually cost less and take less time to complete, so graduates can begin working in the field more quickly. BSN graduates have more chances to advance to higher positions in the health care industry, and they are better prepared to take an advanced nursing degree - to become a nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, or nurse anesthetist, for example - if they decide to do so. There are many innovative choices for online nursing degrees in today's digital world. Many traditional and prestigious schools now offer their nursing degrees online.



My-nursing-career offers listings of online nursing degrees with no admissions waiting list. You can graduate in less time at about half the cost of traditional nursing schools. You can also find a complete list of nursing degrees offered throughout the United States.

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Enjoy A Career In Nursing

If you are in nursing profession you must ensure to take admission sooner or later into online associate nursing degree program, in order to enhance your path to career progression. In fact without a degree your career growth will always remain limited with no scope for progression. There are many areas of nursing nowadays, which means that qualified nurses can enjoy a choice of career.



The availability of online degree in nursing makes it, to move into a specialist area of nursing. To learn more about our online degree programs in nursing, you should surf various websites of colleges to know more about the courses being offered.



Online Degree in Nursing offers a high quality education to those looking to enhance their skills and knowledge, and to improve their career prospects. There are various universities and colleges that offer a variety nursing programs that may fit to your needs. These online degree programmes, therefore makes it easier to gain the necessary qualifications to progress your career in the nursing profession.



The nursing degree in fact facilitates you to upgrade your professional qualification and therefore allows you to gain the necessary qualification to enjoy a brilliant and promising career and to move into a specialist area of nursing. In order to become a registered nurse in any state you need to pass online associate nursing degree from a reputed college. The only difference between a regular and online degree program in nursing is that, in the case of latter, you do not meet personally your fellow students or instructors but the interaction is through online discussions and conferences and has rather proved equally beneficial.



The course content is constantly revised by online nursing schools, in keeping with the demands of health care industry. Therefore you must go for a good online degree programme in nursing, to be a part of this rewarding and challenging profession.

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Nursing by Degrees - From ADN to BSN

California RNs with associate degrees in nursing programs from 73 community colleges are increasing opportunities to advance their careers by obtaining a degree, while BSN working full or part time.



The association American College of Nurses strongly supports these programs and back a trend in some states to allow students to obtain BSN nursing degrees in some community colleges, often in collaboration with four-year institutions. In most states, however, students enter college degree programs through a broad articulation agreements that ensure the seamless transfer of their community college credits to school offered by BSN.



In California and 17 other states, school to school articulation agreements exist to facilitate the transfer of credits from community colleges to universities with BSN programs. In general, the covenants to allow the transfer of 60 semester credits, which is consistent with agreements between two four-year institutions for other academic disciplines.



Sharon Johnson, RN, PhD, associate degree nursing program director at Santa Rosa Junior College said that the state of the joint program allows community college graduates to transfer some universities with the knowledge that most of their claims will be accepted. "They only have to complete courses at higher levels."



About 62% of Santa Rosa de nursing students to implement programs BSN during his last semester, usually near the Sonoma State University in Rohnert Park, Johnson said. One third of the 85 students who enroll annually in the associate degree program also have a college degree in another field, and some qualify for a fast-track a master plan studies, without going through the BSN.



Foster BSNs



"We are well prepare nurses for the direct care of patients, probably better than anyone, but if they want to become a supervisor, educator, or public health nurse, they need an advanced degree," says Johnson. "From day one, we encourage all our students to get their BSN."



With 600000 U.S. dollars in two years capacity-building grants and tuition, Santa Rosa JC is to enroll 60 students in each spring and fall classes in 2006 through a selection process that has made the school one of the best results in state with a low of 10% wear and a rate of 97% NCLEX pass rate.



Johnson said, and graduates often have jobs as RNs in local hospitals and pursue their BSN degrees from attending classes part-time and via Internet and distance learning.



At CSU San Marcos, a period of two years, part-time RN to BSN is being launched in autumn 2007 with an initial class of 24 to 27 students, said Laurie Lindeneau, adviser and coordinator of outreach for the school of Health and Human Services Department. She expects that most applicants will be working with nurses and degrees of community colleges in San Diego County. "The program is designed so that nurses can work and come to school a couple of days a week in the afternoon or evening," says Lindeneau.



Grades long distance



California State University, Fullerton has 387 students in its BSN program, all of whom are RNs with a community college and degree, but 232 of them are not walking to classes on campus. Instead, we are working in hospitals across the state and taking a mix of videoconferencing and online courses.



"The nurses choose our program of distance education first because it is so convenient," says Jo-Anne Andre, RN, MSN, the principal of distance education. "The courses are offered frequently at the place where he is employed and conducted in a cohort model of one night per week."



Andre said that the part-time distance program gives nurses a BSN in three years through a unique combination of learning through interactive video broadcasts, online surveys, and face to face physical evaluations of school instructors travelling to nurse workplace. Those attending classes on campus can get a BSN in two years, with flexible schedule that includes afternoon and evening courses.



The programme of distance education has doubled from registration for five years and videoconferencing courses are now held in state hospitals selected Kaiser, as well as Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, St. Joseph's Hospital in Orange, Children's Hospital in Los Angeles, and Anaheim Memorial Hospital.



Pressing higher



"There is much interest in the program," Andre said, adding that some hospitals require a certain number of nurses with BSNs that can be promoted or put in leadership positions. "I would think there is a big boost for nurses to get BSNs."



The AACN said future nurses need to go beyond the criteria of associate degree which makes them good bedside nurses due to the increasing demands of the profession. "BSN nurses are valued for their skills in critical thinking, leadership, case management and health promotion, and his ability to practice across a variety of inpatients and outpatients," says a recent document AACN position. "Clinical environments throughout the country are the differentiation of practice and advertising positions that either require or prefer the BSN for employment."

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Registered Nursing - 3 Ways to Get Trained

The process for an individual to become a registered nurse is not overwhelming. Nurses have multiple ways of completing their RN training programs. What nurses need to do though is understand the credibility and the demand of the training courses they avail of, because some of them are more popular than others.



Here are 3 ways you could get trained to be a registered nurse



Bachelor's of Science Degree in Nursing



This is also known as BSN and as per statistics revealed by leading health care institutes in the United States of America, about 60% of healthcare students take to this degree program. Normally, BSN programs last for about 4 years and are offered by all leading colleges and universities. Nurses need to know that with a BSN degree, they would be exposed to aspects like communication, leadership and motivation. These factors are extremely important in the life of a RN.



Accelerated BSN degree



What if you hold a degree in another domain and wish to switch to the field of nursing? In such a scenario, you can choose the Accelerated BSN Degree program, a form of RN training programs. This course lasts for about 12 - 18 months and is considered the quickest way of entering into the domain of nursing.



This course is commonly chosen by individuals who have had limited exposure to healthcare and nursing in their graduation days and yet wish to become a nurse.



Associate Degree in Nursing



Plenty of local colleges and universities offer the Associate Degree in Nursing, also known as ADN. 95% of nurses who enroll with this course feel that ADN is a wonderful stepping stone for their nursing career. In terms of intensity and complexity, the ADN course is considered to be the easiest, as nurses can get done with this RN training program within 2 years time.



The Accelerated Master's Degree in Nursing studies is another type of RN Training program. Students enrolling for this course are awarded the BSN and the MSN degree together at the end of the stipulated 4 years of full time study.



As you can see, there are plenty of RN Training programs available for nurses to choose from. They can make this choice depending on the time they have on their hands, the money they wish to spend, and the amount of knowledge they wish to learn.

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Associate Degrees

Associate Degrees are playing their role in streamlining the skill sets and providing jobs to hundreds of thousands of young and talented individuals in the United States of America. Associate degrees in the States have an extensive array of specializations as well as sub-specializations. Hundreds of community colleges and private organizations are further developing their labs, increasing their teaching staff and enhancing the overall curriculum to address the ongoing demand for specialized labor. Associate degrees fill the requirement of hundreds of thousands of jobs ranging from dental hygienists to culinary art specialists. The associate degrees are typically less than 2 years and have a lower ranking as compared to the bachelor degree but have a wide range of selective professions to choose from and immediate job placement in all different segments of the market.



One of the fast growing degrees has been in the domain of fashion design and visual and performance arts. The world of multimedia media has changed manifold due to the easily available software applications that drive the dynamic features of advertisements, audio clips and even multimedia projects. Associate degrees in digital audio production and graphic designs have been increasingly popular among art majors. Associates in video and motion graphics provides students with a more robust and calculated understanding of media and graphics. The colleges in the eastern states focus more on multimedia technologies and give students an opportunity to work on current projects. Associate degrees in radio, television broadcasting as well as in visual communications and advertisement communication are now the current needs of the market. Associate degrees are also available in audio and sound recording, fashion merchandising, film and video, animation in art and design, drafting and design, computer aided graphic technology, and digital media design and production. All of these associate degrees play an important role in improving the overall standard of the multimedia and fashion industry.



Another thriving degree has been in the culinary arts and food industry. Various colleges and universities now specialize in teaching their staff about hotel management and chef course work. Specialized degrees are now available in understanding how to manage restaurants and food chains. Associate degrees in food management, hotel resource infrastructure, and customer service management are all available for students interested in pursuing careers in culinary and hotel management.



The last decade has seen a significant increase in the overall number of teachers that are required to educate students across the nation. One of the reasons behind the surge for teachers is the ongoing increase of specialized fields of study and understanding of new international courses readily available for learning. Students are now willing to learn more and the overall percentage of research done in the field of education has increased exponentially. Associate degree in education can range from specialization in early childhood education all the way to elementary education. Some of the colleges in the east coast also provide general education associate degrees that give a general perspective to all the different tools and methods for all age types.



The field of law has also benefited from the short courses and associate degrees available in their line of work. Hundreds of processes and policies have now standardized in this particular field and it is extremely conducive and efficient to hire individuals with talents and skill sets that cater to the demands and needs of the profession. Associate degrees in legal office technology, paralegal technology, paralegal studies and legal assistant management are all available through out United States. There are other associate degrees within the realm of paralegal studies that further specialize in criminal and civil procedures.



Another fast and growing arena has been the automotive industry. United States is home to several of the great automotive giants in the region. Ford, GMC, Buick are all the name brands that have been built in the States and sold all over the world. Each year these manufacturing giants come up with new models, features and value added services in their line of vehicles. To cater to the demands of the market, various associate degrees have been crafted and further honed to keep up with the pace of jobs and employment opportunities available in the automotive industry. Electronic technology associate degree teaches a wide array of tools and applications that assist in improving the electrical gadgetry of cars and other units used in the manufacturing plants. Associate degrees in Automotive Technology, AutoCAD development, Automotive Service Management, Auto and Diesel Technology, Steel and Rod Customization, electronics engineering have all played its due role in improving the industry as a whole.



Another similar story lies with the medical profession. Hundreds of jobs are available that assist nurses, doctors, medical devise specialists in further improving the health care industry for millions of patients in States alone. Ample research, analysis and topics are added each semester to align the associate degrees with the demands and requirements of the industry. It is imperative that the colleges and institutions that cater to the requirements of the medical institutions and hospitals keep a strong affinity with doctors and professionals so that the learning is gradual and up to date. One of the most successful associate degrees in the medical arena has been that of the medical assistant associate degree. Associate degrees in respiratory therapy, medical assisting, Physical therapy, Radiological technology, Nursing, Message therapy, clinical medical management, health information technology, medical assistant technology, occupational science and IT health care informatics have all extremely useful in the development of the field. Similar degrees are available in the dental field. Associate degrees in dental assistant management and dental healthcare management are courses and degrees available in almost all the colleges of United States.



Accounting and financial management segment also has a plethora of associate degree offerings. Their degrees specialize in general accounting, business administration, and office administration, accounting technology, science in accounting, and applied business in accounting, business and computer specialization in accounting and accounting and taxation. All of these degrees provide students with a general understanding of accounting and the importance of numbers in the business world.

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Bachelors Degree Vs Associates Degree - Which is the Right Choice?

You may be thinking about attending a local community college to earn an associate degree. The fact is that, although an associate degree is an accomplishment, a bachelor degree is a more formal, prestigious college degree to attain. For some careers, however, there are more opportunities for an associate degree graduate with some work experience rather than a bachelor degree graduate with no work experience.



Associate Degree



An associate degree is basically a two year program equivalent to the first two years in a bachelor's program. Getting an associates can give you the basic skills to increase your ability to write, speak, and process mathematical functions. Associate graduates have the opportunity to work in the field and greatly boost their.



The other side of stopping your education at the associate level is that you do not learn the valuable skills that are focused on your career path. The more advanced college courses are only available only to bachelor level students, and they are a required part of some job career paths to fully understand the industry.



Bachelor Degree



Graduating with a bachelor's requires a high time and study investment and it is more difficult to attain than a just an associates. It's a more prestigious degree and it commands a better salary due to advanced skills required to achieve. A standard college graduate will have a much more diverse variety of college courses available to them that gives them a better, well rounded college education.



A bachelor degree will help you command a better salary, but it will also take much more time to graduate especially if you are working. It's also important to get some hands-on, job experience to help you move quickly into a great career once you graduate.



If you're interested in attaining a bachelor degree or an associate degree, check out this article on your choices available to you.

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Master Degree In Nursing - Get Noticed With An Advance Degree Course

For A Smooth Career Progress



An online master degree in nursing is equivalent to a standard master degree in every respect. The curriculum is regularly updated and it is seen that the online students do not fall behind their traditional counterparts. The flexibility of the course allows students to work around their daily commitments. That is why it is especially beneficial for female nurses or working mothers who have their kids and homes to take care of.



There is another feature that benefits working nurses a lot. They can receive credit for their work experience. Many online institutions allow their students to enter proficiency exams such as the college level examination program (CLEP) or the proficiency examination program (PEP) in lieu of course work in areas in which they have work experience. Thus, your experience counts and with an online nursing degree program, adds up in making you a promising candidate. In other words, a master degree in nursing helps a lot in building your promotional chances. You can conveniently complete this nursing degree course in two or three years or even sooner if you have qualifying credits or prior work experience.



There is an ever-increasing demand for nurses who have the right educational mix to meet the growing challenges of health care sector. Candidates with an online associate nursing degree or a bachelor degree are required across a variety of acute care, primary care and community health setting and other related services such as case management, health promotion and disease prevention. Those who have a master degree in nursing or a higher advance degree are required even more urgently for critical care units like neonatal nursing, emergency, operating room, labor and delivery units. So now, you can see that your master degree in nursing can really take you places.



The candidates who have advance degree in this profession are also well paid. According to Federal Division of Nursing, nurses who have master or doctoral degree get an average of anywhere between 60-65 thousand dollars per annum. Not to mention the respect that this profession generates among people.



With patient care growing more complex, there will always be a need for professional nurses who can handle latest technology and crisis situation with equal deftness and ease. A master degree in nursing prepares you for all this and gives you an extra edge over your competitors.

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