How to Choose A Nursing Degree Program |
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October 5, 2006
by AJ Fanter
aj.fanter@healthcare-programs.com
Healthcare Programs Columnist
To become a nurse you need to be caring, sympathetic, responsible, and detail-oriented. In addition to those wonderful qualities, however, you're also going to need a nursing degree.
If you're considering getting your nursing degree but don't know which program is right for you, here's a basic review of the different kinds of nursing degree programs available.
Typical Nursing Degree Programs
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are three primary kinds of nursing education programs. You can get either your BSN (bachelor of science degree) in nursing, an ADN (associate's degree in nursing), or a nursing diploma. While the BSN degree programs typically take four years to complete, an ADN only takes 2-3 years to finish. The average diploma program, which is offered through hospitals, takes roughly three years to complete.
Other Alternatives
Along with these options, there are also accelerated BSN programs for those who have already obtained their bachelor's degree in another field and who want to become a registered nurse (RN). These programs typically last a year to a year and half. They are a very quick and convenient way to get your nursing degree if you already have the required background.
In addition to the accelerated BSN programs, there are also RN-to-BSN programs, which help those who have an ADN or a diploma to obtain their BSN. This is particularly useful for improving your nursing career prospects. This option allows you to "work your way" through school, with a tuition reimbursement in most cases.
As you can see, choosing the right nursing degree program depends on your time frame, your current level of education, and your career plans. The good news is, no matter what your strategy, there's a program out there that's right for you!
Source
About the Author
AJ Fanter is a freelance writer based in Reno, NV.
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