Choosing an online degree program in any field can be daunting. But knowing the right questions to ask beforehand can make the experience smoother.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of registered nurses is projected to grow 15 percent between 2016 to 2026. This is partly due to rising demand for health care services among baby boomers who are living longer and have more active lives than previous generations. There’s also a greater emphasis on preventative care.
For already-registered nurses, pursuing a Registered Nurse-to-Bachelor of Science in Nursing online degree program can help advance their career while providing flexibility to work around their busy schedules. Before enrolling in an online bachelor’s in nursing, prospective students should ask these four questions while researching programs.
1. What are the prerequisites? Since nursing is science-based, almost all universities require students to complete a few prerequisites before starting their RN-BSN program. This includes having earned an RN degree in person from an accredited institution.
[Learn why to consider an online nursing “bridge” program.]
But students should understand whether additional courses are required for enrollment on top of those that they have completed to become an RN and, if so, factor in the time to complete these. Prospective students who have taken the prerequisites should meet with a transfer specialist or academic adviser at their university of choice to ensure that all credits will transfer.
2. Can I take all online courses, or will I need to come to campus? Given the hands-on nature of the nursing profession, many prospective students assume they will be required to attend face-to-face classes.
Some schools offer hybrid, or blended, programs where students take classes both on campus and online. But ASU Online, the online arm of Arizona State University, for example, delivers all course content in a fully online format, though it still has clinical requirements where students apply what they learn from the curriculum at a local health facility at times that best fit their schedules.
Students should research each online program and determine what will fit best with their other obligations and current location.
Heidi Sanborn, a clinical assistant professor in the ASU College of Nursing and Health Innovation, says the flexibility of the online program, which allows students to explore health care delivery wherever they live, can demonstrate to employers that a graduate is familiar with health care in his or her community and has the skills needed to work directly with clients.
[Explore a week in the life of an online nursing graduate student.]
3. How much will an online nursing bachelor’s degree cost? Prospective students should take time to compare the cost of each online program but not let this be their only deciding factor. Note that costs for online RN-BSNs can vary widely, depending on many factors.
Ultimately, paying for an online degree from an accredited, credible university is extremely important, since this can ensure that prospective students can transfer credits to other schools, that employers will accept their degree and that they receive the best education possible.
4. How much time will I need to complete my degree? A bachelor’s in nursing can be time-consuming, given the traditional coursework required plus the clinical experience. For many prospective students, this will all be on top of a full-time job.
Many nursing degree programs take 15 months to two years to complete, but the flexibility of online learning can allow for more time if needed. Students can typically complete the online degree at a pace that works for them.
The takeaway: When choosing where to earn a BSN online, prospective students should consider prerequisites and cost. Also they should understand their current work schedule and gauge whether the format and clinical requirements are doable with other responsibilities.
More from U.S. News
4 Things to Know About Accreditation in Online Nursing Programs
Get Accepted Into a Top Online Graduate Nursing Program
Understand What to Expect From Faculty in Online Nursing Courses
Ask 4 Questions to Choose an Online Nursing Bachelor’s Program originally appeared on usnews.com
