Earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is a great way to enhance your understanding of the nursing profession and boost your career. However, you might wonder, how can you continue to work while going back to school? The answer may be a flexible online RN to BS in Nursing program.
An online program can offer a number of benefits that make learning more accessible, including tailoring your schedule to fit your needs and learning on the go from anywhere. By earning a bachelor's degree, often in as few as 18-24 months, you can gain the knowledge necessary to provide the very best patient care.
According to the Institute of Medicine's (IOM) 2010 Future of Nursing report, nurses who complete a flexible online RN to BS in Nursing program learn essential leadership skills in key areas such as community and public health, health policy and healthcare financing, quality improvement and systems thinking.
Fits your schedule
A flexible online RN to BS in Nursing program allows practicing nurses to fit learning into their schedule. Online courses can be taken at varying times throughout the day, often whenever a student can manage his or her time. Individual courses often can be completed in as little as seven weeks.
Imagine learning on your break, over lunch, after the kids have been put to bed or anytime that is convenient for you. It is possible with a flexible online RN to BS in Nursing program.
Multiple start dates
Most online programs have varying start dates throughout the year that allow you to choose when to enter an online program. Instead of being limited to starting school in the traditional fall or spring semesters, a flexible online RN to BS in Nursing program allows you to choose from several entry dates, depending on your work, family or other personal obligations.
Learn from anywhere
By enrolling in online courses, you can learn anywhere you have computer and Internet access. Another advantage is that you are not limited by what colleges or universities are within driving distance. You can study with professors and professionals across the country from the comfort of your home or office.
The future of nursing
The IOM states that 55 percent of nurses currently have a BS in Nursing degree or higher; however, the IOM is calling for this number to reach 80 percent or higher by 2020. The need for highly educated and especially skilled nurses is growing, and those who take the initiative now will be at the forefront of their profession.
Consider how to keep pace with the ever-changing healthcare field. By enrolling in a flexible online RN to BS in Nursing program, you can be on the way to gaining the knowledge you need to deliver the best care to your patients.
Learn about the URI online RN to BS in Nursing program.
Sources:
The Impact of Education on Nursing Practice: http://www.aacn.nche.edu/media-relations/fact-sheets/impact-of-education
Institute of Medicine, The Future of Nursing: http://www.thefutureofnursing.org/IOM-Report
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