Independence University
Utah based, Independence University was founded in 1978 as California College for Health Sciences. Independence University adopted its name in the belief that education leads to further independence. Independence University started out as a specialist in allied health programs; the university now also offers courses in business and education. In 2010, Independence University became a branch of Stevens-Henager College.
Overview of Programs, Certificates and Degrees
- Offers 1 online bachelors and 1 online masters degree in nursing
- FAFSA (federal financial aid) and military benefits accepted
- Students can work one-on-one with a financial planner to fund education
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Online programs at Independence University serve domestic, international students residing in the USA and students abroad in the military.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
Course Description
Nurses in the Bachelor’s degree program are required to complete courses in health program evaluation, case management, critical thinking, statistics, pathophysiology, and introduction to nursing research. Students are also required to complete a practicum. While students in the bachelor’s of nursing degree program explore research and statistics, the focus is more on practical aspects of nursing, and nursing are not expected to apply research concepts as in the master’s degree. There is also less of a focus on leadership than in the master’s degree program.
Career Options
Career options for nurses pursuing bachelor’s degrees include acute care, advanced practice psychiatric, critical care, and clinical specialist nurses. Some nurses can also consider becoming instructors at the bachelor’s degree level though experience is often required to supplement.
Duration and Cost
The online nursing program requires 24 months to complete, and a minimum of 91 credits (Registered nurses must have completed sufficient credits to have 3rd year status and general education requirements met). Fees for tuition are approximately $25,000.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing
Career Options
Career options for nurses at the master’s degree level include acute care, advanced psychiatric, critical care, and clinical specialist nurses. Nurses holding a masters degree may also consider positions in medical and health services management.
Course Description
Nurses in the master’s program take courses in issues in managed care, health services economics, health information systems, legal considerations in healthcare delivery, and outcomes assessment and quality management. Master’s degree nurses culminate their degree program in a final thesis project requiring an academic write up with results.
Duration and Cost
The online master’s nursing program requires 16 months to complete, which is composed of 54 credits. Fees for tuition are approximately $21,500.
Faculty
Nursing faculty of Independence University have certifications from all over the nation, bringing in a variety of experience and perspectives into the nursing programs. Most faculty hold graduate level degrees.
Things to consider:
- Nursing programs are not accredited by a nursing body
- Bachelors degree program is available to registered nurses only
Accreditation
Independence University is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).
Address:
Independence University
5295 South Commerce Drive
Suite G50
Salt Lake City, UT 84107
