Degree Programs for New and Experienced Nursing Students

What type of nursing degree program can “set” you up for a solid career?

Would you be surprised to learn that all of them could? Nursing is one of the most flexible and scalable career fields. Essentially you can start at the bottom of the nursing career/education ladder and easily work your way up a smoothly if you wish.

• Vocational or LPN nursing programs emphasize the practical basics of nursing, dispensing with most theory and going lightly on the academics.
• Associates nursing programs are among the most popular, still beating out Bachelors with new nursing grads. These community college based programs graduate the largest number of licensed RNs.
• Bachelors of Science in Nursing programs are the preferred degree and allow RNs a much wider latitude to pursue specialties and advanced degree programs.
• Masters of Science in Nursing programs are beginning to draw increasing numbers of RNs, those interested in the challenges available in Advanced Practice and more challenging nursing specialties. Some RNs are even bundling their education with innovative joint degrees that give them solid educational grounding in closely related fields, just as law enforcement and business administration.
• Diploma nursing programs were THE traditional nursing education. Once upon a time all nurses were trained in hospital-based nursing schools where they mixed academics with hands-on learning and seamlessly transitioned to staff nurses upon graduation. Though rare, today’s nursing Diploma programs continue to deliver excellent nursing options.
• Doctoral Nursing programs are sought by RNs wishing to provide leadership or education. Nurse Researchers, Nurse Educators, Nurse Administrators and many others are common students for a PhD.
• Post-grad Certificates and Non-Degree Courses provide targeted specialty curriculums easily deliverable via online or campus-based courses.

Heard news reports about nursing school waitlists? Find out why the nursing shortage can be considered a silver lining for prospective nursing students as well as experienced RNs.

And what about getting your nursing license? Use this guide to find information on the NCLEX exam and how to study for this important test.

And if you think nursing education ends there, think again. Most state nursing boards require RNs to log a certain number of Continuing Education courses each year. Find out where the best sources for CEs may be found.

Explore Your Nursing Degree Options Today!