Why Should an RN Get a BSN Degree?

The demand for qualified RNs continues to rise. Alongmost run on the same semester or quarter class
with increased demand, today's nurses are requiredschedule as do traditional classes held on campus.
to have more than just training in skill-related tasks.Classes normally take 6-8 weeks to complete.
The healthcare industry is constantly changing - newWritten coursework often takes the place of
technology, a diverse patient population, andtraditional exams. Exams that are not offered online
increased bureaucracy require a nurse withmay be proctored at several convenient locations.
management, communication, and critical thinking skills.The university can arrange for any clinical study to be
A bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) programperformed at a medical facility near you.
prepares you to handle the challenges in a complexHelp is Always a Click Away
medical industry.Obtaining a nursing degree online means you don't
In addition, a BSN gives you an edge over thehave face-to-face interaction with professors and
competition. Your work experience coupled with anfellow students. However, you are able to
advanced degree helps you stand out to employerscommunicate via email and online discussion forums.
who make hiring and advancement decisions. TheUpon acceptance into an online BSN program, you will
time and effort spent earning your degree will payoffbe assigned an academic advisor to help plan your
in a higher salary and more job opportunities.curriculum. One benefit of online programs is that
Returning to school to obtain a BSN can be difficultinstructors' lectures are in written form which
and sometimes impossible, especially if you cannoteliminates the need for note taking.
afford to quit work or survive on part-time wages.How to Apply
Fortunately, there is a viable option - online nursingOnline nursing programs have the same entrance
degree programs, (distance learning) , that allow yourequirements as traditional BSN programs. SAT or
to earn a BSN at home via your computer.ACT, minimum GPA, high school credits in requisite
Easy Access to Quality Programscourses, and graduation from an accredited nursing
As a working RN, you will appreciate the convenienceschool are the basic requirements for those seeking
of studying online to obtain a BSN. You can study atto enroll in a BSN degree program. Many schools will
home or anywhere you have computer/internetgive college credit for past work experience by
access. Studying online also eliminates travel time toallowing you to take a proficiency exam in lieu of
and from the nearest school offering a BSN degree.course-work.
This can be a lifesaver for nurses working in ruralCostly, But Worth It
areas. Several universities offer online BSN degreesThe cost of an online BSN degree varies among
so you have a good selection of quality schools fromschools. The average price per credit ranges from
which to choose a program that meets your needs.$100 to $300 or more. Online programs through public
Have Computer, Will Studyuniversities may charge less ($100-$170) per credit
For online study, instructors posts lecture materialshour. If you work for a hospital or corporation, your
and assignments on a designated website and theemployer may offer full or partial reimbursement for
student emails completed assignments to thetuition.
instructor. While some online programs are self-paced,