Online nursing programs are becoming popular due to the rising demand for quality healthcare by nurse practitioners. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the growth rate of nursing jobs is 9 percent from 2020 to 2030. It’s faster and higher than in other occupations.
Nowadays, many nursing colleges offer online courses, RN to BSN degrees, and other nursing bridgeprograms to aspirants. This move to online learning also addresses the rising demand.
In this article, you’ll learn the best options available for you. By the end of this post, you can evaluate the best online nursing programs based on your education level and requirements, financial capacity, and programs offered by a nursing school.
Education Level
Online nursing programs are available for all individuals, whether you’re a nurse wanting to advance, a degree holder wanting a change in career or a high school graduate. It’s essential to consider your education level because it determines what path to take.
If you have an RN license or an LPN, you can enroll in online bridge programs. Through these bridge programs, you can earn either bachelor’s or a master’s degree. A doctorate is also available for ambitious individuals.
Educated non-nurses can also enter online nursing programs. Whether you’re a business or medical degree holder, you can become a nurse for an entry-level position in less than a year.
So, what are the requirements for enrolling in an online nursing program? Technically speaking, the specific requirements depend on the nursing program you choose. Most often, you must be a holder of a nursing license, a degree holder, a high school diploma, or a GED.
Some online nursing schools require a GPA of 2.5 or 3.0 for accelerated programs.
What to Expect
Since learning is online, nursing schools expect you to have at least a decent internet connection. You use this connection to assess the online platform the school is using. Moreover, here are some of the things you should expect in an online nursing program.
Technology
Nursing schools with online courses use a system for easy dissemination of class topics. Often, the learning management system includes a discussion board, email interface, and video conferences.
Every course material is in digital form. Other nursing schools will require you to buy digital books as your study resources. Sometimes, these digital books are separate costs from the tuition you pay, while others will incorporate it.
Furthermore, expect a technology fee of some sort when you look at the tuition and cost of enrolling in an online nursing program. Usually, online nursing schools pass on the fees of developing the online platform to their students.
Clinical Experience
Even though the program is online, nursing schools will still require you to complete some clinical experience. You can acquire this clinical experience in your local communities.
Some nursing schools will help you find the best institution for your internship programs. Others will allow you to choose.
The number of clinical hours to complete vary on the program you’re finishing. For example, MSN programs will require at least 200 up to 600 hours of clinical experience.
Also, online nursing schools discourage clinical completion in the student’s workplace. Students can’t use the clinical hours spent in their workplace. To avoid this situation, some online nursing schools provide a list of medical institutions where students can have clinical experience.
Full-Time Vs. Part-time
Another great thing about online nursing programs is the flexibility they offer to students. You can choose to take the course full-time or part-time.
Full time will enable you to finish the course fast, which is the best-accelerated program. Part-time will take a little longer than usual.
However, the cost is the same, whether you’re doing the course part-time or full-time. Sometimes, some nursing schools allow students to pay the tuition per credit if they opt for part-time. If you choose part-time per credit, the long-term cost might be higher than full-time.
Start Date
Online nursing programs have different starting dates. Despite the differences in starting dates, students start and finish classes in a group.
Traditionally, classes start in spring, summer, or fall. But, in online nursing courses, you don’t need to follow these regular start dates. This flexibility benefits students who can’t fit regular classroom start dates on their schedule.
Entry to Online Nursing Programs
Entry into online nursing programs is easy. You can do it through direct entry, bridge programs, or accelerated courses. These methods of entering an online course all depend on your availability.
Direct Entry
High school graduates and degree holders choose a direct entry. Direct entry doesn’t require any special requirements, especially for individuals with non-nursing educational backgrounds. Your current educational level is sufficient to become eligible for an online course.
Bridge Programs
Besides direct entry, bridge programs for working nurses are available both in online and traditional ways of learning. These programs require a minimum of one year of clinical work.
Some nursing schools accept students who don’t have clinical experience yet. Often, admission includes an essay submission that discusses nursing topics.
Bridge programs also require completion of physical science, math, social science, and humanities. Generally, you need to transfer 60 credits of nursing courses and general education.
Accelerated Programs
Accelerated online nursing programs require high admission standards. Often, you need a particular GPA to qualify, such as a minimum of 2.5 or 3.0.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program is the best starting point for individuals who want to work as an RN. Online courses are available, which you can complete in 2 to 3 years in a full-time learning setup.
Program requirements include a high school diploma or an equivalent. Some nursing schools will require passing General Education examinations to enroll.
The curriculum often includes fundamentals of nursing, pharmacology, nursing care, surgical nursing, psychiatric, and other nursing-related topics. This program requires passing the NCLEX-RN exam.
Alternatively, you can take the LPN/LVN program. This program is the fastest way to earn a nursing degree because you can complete it in 12 months. The required exam is the NCLEX-PN.
Undergraduate Level
The undergraduate level for the online nursing program is another option for high-school graduates, registered nurses, and other degree holders. Online nursing programs include RN to BSN, direct BSN, and second degree BSN.
The program requirement includes a high school diploma (or an equivalent) for individuals who want to take the direct BSN route. If you’re a working nurse, an RN license, and transferred, credits are essential requirements. For second-degree BSN, some nursing schools will require additional admission requirements aside from official transcripts.
Years to complete this degree may range from two to four years. You can enroll online in an accelerated program, full-time or part-time learning.
The curriculum may include general education such as chemistry, philosophy, and nursing courses such as critical nursing care.
Graduate Level
Graduate-level courses are available for working nurses who want to advance in nursing practice and leadership roles. You can finish either a master’s, a doctorate, or both.
Graduate programs may take two years to complete in a full-time learning setup. Often, the requirements include a degree (BSN) and a license in nursing practice. In some cases, nurses with an associate degree can take MSN programs without a BSN degree.
Programs include RN to MSN, RN to DNP, second degree MSN. RN to MSN program is usually the conventional route for professional nurses who want to enhance their knowledge and skills.
However, some programs, such as the RN to DNP, allow students and licensed nurses to skip programs for master’s degrees.
Achieve Test Prep helps LPNs earn their ADN or BSN degree online in up to 1/2 the time and cost of traditional programs. With No Waiting List to get started, Free Books, and Low-Cost financing options are available nationwide except in parts of California, Alabama, and Kansas. The LIVE instructor-led test-out program allows one to learn at an accelerated pace and earn college credit-by-examination which then is eligible to be transferred to an ACEN accredited nursing school or 100’s of universities nationwide. Learn More
Other Online Nursing Courses
Besides nursing care courses, nurses can also take other online courses closely related to the nursing field. You can take these online nursing programs to help you land the roles of nursing educators, healthcare managers, and data informatics.
If you don’t want to get involved in nursing care directly, you can take these online nursing courses.
Healthcare Management
These courses require a degree in healthcare administration or management. Most medical institutions require a master’s degree to become employed. So, if you’re planning to get a job in this field, this online nursing program is your best route.
Nursing Education
Nurse educators become faculty in universities and colleges and provide training and classroom instruction. They educate aspiring nurses in different clinical settings. Often, these programs require degrees at the graduate level.
Nursing Informatics
Informatics is also essential in the healthcare industry. Organized, accurate, and reliable data helps in delivering fast service to patients. Also, graduates of nursing informatics analyze data. The analysis can help in cutting healthcare costs and increase efficiency.
If you’re not sure what online nursing programs to take, you can use our evaluation tool to find the best nursing programs.
How to Evaluate an Online Nursing School?
Your next step is to evaluate which online nursing school to choose. There are several aspects you should consider.
Accreditation
Accreditation requires a school to follow a specific set of learning standards. It shows the effort of a nursing school to ensure quality learning.
The CHEA and ED regulate the issuance of accreditation to postsecondary institutions, including nursing. The accrediting agencies under these regulatory bodies are ACEN and CCNE.
The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) issues and evaluates accreditation to all levels. On the other hand, the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits nursing colleges that offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
NCLEX Passing Rates
After learning the course, you need to pass the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN. NCLEX-RN is the required examination for ADN programs, while NCLEX-PN is for LPN/LVN.
Usually, online nursing schools publish their passing rates on their websites. This rate is an indication of an excellent program and school but not an absolute measurement. Some schools have low passing rates, but they have superior online nursing programs.
You also have to check the curriculum that nursing colleges offer. The curriculum should help you achieve your goal in learning nursing care and eventually pass the NCLEX.
Clinical/Hands-On Experiences
Most nursing schools require clinical hours or hands-on experience before finally graduating from the online nursing program. Generally, the minimum requirement is 600 hours of clinical work. Some schools require students to complete less than this amount, while others don’t emphasize such school requirements.
Often, undergrad degrees such as RN to BSN and ADN to BSN require clinical hours for completion. So, check out this particular requirement and see if you can squeeze it into your current schedule.
Specialties
Nursing is a broad field and has several specialties. When you pursue advanced learning in nursing care and other related courses, you can choose a specialization.
During enrollment, the school will ask you to choose a specific specialization. Your chosen specialty will depend on your ultimate goal.
These specialties can qualify you for a higher position with increased responsibilities. Through your advanced specialization, you can demand an increase in salary.
State Agreements
Online nursing programs and their requirements may vary from state to state. Check whether a school is part of an Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact. The eNLC is an agreement between states. It recognizes RN licenses issued by other states.
So, why does this matter? Sometimes, you might choose a school outside your state. Thus, it’s essential to know if the state where your selected school operates is part of the eNLC.
If a state is part of this agreement, you don’t need to get a separate license applicable to where you’ll work as a nurse. This agreement increases your employment opportunities outside or within your state.
The nursing school will provide information about this interstate agreement. So, don’t forget to ask about this matter.
If your current RN license doesn’t apply to a particular state, you can obtain a temporary nursing license. However, this temporary license expires, and you will need to renew again.
Financial Assistance
Online nursing programs are expensive but a lot cheaper than the traditional way of learning. You can save on transportation, gas expenses, lodging, among others because you don’t need to commute or drive to attend a class.
If you can’t afford a nursing program’s cost, you can seek assistance from your employer in return for additional years of service. This arrangement applies to medical and nursing degree holders.
Some programs allow a work-and-study setup. So, you can continue your current employment while pursuing advancement in a nursing career. This setup is beneficial for students or degree holders who have day jobs.
The US Government also provides grants, student loans, and scholarships to qualified individuals.
Key Takeaways
The healthcare industry is booming, and nurses are in demand. With online nursing programs accessible nowadays, you can advance your career or change it. Moreover, you can learn and finish the online nursing courses in the comfort of your home. You can also retain your current job while learning a new skill.
Before we end this post, here are some takeaways you should remember when searching for the best nursing school.
One, choose the best nursing program that enhances your current skill, fits your schedule and financial capability. If you can’t afford the program, you can avail of government grants.
Two, the fastest way to gain a nursing degree is an accelerated program. However, you might need to give up your nursing job temporarily.
So, did you find the answers to your questions? If you didn’t, you could use our tools and the various information on our site to know more details. Alternatively, you can ask our expert opinion to help you with the selection process.
Online vs Traditional RN to BSN Program: A Complete Guide
17 Most Common Questions About RN to BSN Program
The public health industry is increasing in demand. By 2026, the market will increase up to 15%, especially for registered nurses. Moreover, people expect quality patient’s care. With these increasing demands, professional nurses enroll in an online RN to BSN program to enhance their skills and knowledge.
Briefer on RN to BSN Program
This program aims to prepare nurses on more complex, more advanced sets of skills such as nurse management on patient care. Often, RN to BSN is a bridge program available to nurses with RN license.
You can enroll in the program either through online nursing schools or the traditional way of learning. Either way, you can complete the nursing program through accelerated, full-time, or part-time education.
If you’re a registered nurse planning to enroll in nursing courses, here are some common questions you might want to ask first. We provided the answers, so you don’t need to research them elsewhere.
How Many Years Can You Complete an RN to BSN program?
Generally, completion of a BSN program takes two years with full-time learning. However, if you are an RN and had obtained an ADN diploma, you can complete these programs in less than two years.
This shorter completion term is due to the transfer of credit hours. Some nursing schools will allow you to transfer 60 credit hours.
How Many Credit Hours Are RN to BSN?
Most RN to BSN programs require you to finish approximately 120 credit hours with generally 60 transferrable credit hours. The 60 credit hours may include 30 credits on nursing-related courses and 30 credit hours on clinical experiences.
However, these credit hours may vary, so check out this information before enrolling in an online nursing school.
What Classes Do You Need for RN to BSN?
When you take this program, the classes will focus on high-level nursing topics. These topics may include nursing management, nursing ethics, and informatics. Primarily, the curriculum varies, so you might want to scan the list before enrolling.
In some cases, the curriculum will include general education, especially if the nursing school doesn’t allow transferring credits related to these courses. You can take these classes through traditional set-up or online learning.
How Does an Online RSN to BSN Program Differ From an On-Campus Program?
An Online RSN to BSN program vs on-campus program don’t differ much on skills and knowledge acquisition. The level of education you get is the same. But, the two may still provide different learning experiences.
In online learning, you will complete a daily task through a learning management system. Moreover, you won’t have to go to school, thus, little to zero face-to-face interaction. But, some schools will require you to visit once or twice throughout the online course.
The most significant advantage of online learning is your ability to keep your job while completing the course. However, you need a high level of dedication and discipline to finish an online course.
Luckily, nursing schools have made significant changes to make online learning as rewarding as the traditional way. Constant communication, such as email, forum discussions, and online chat, creates conducive learning online.
What is the Fastest and Easiest RN to BSN Program?
The fastest way to gain RN to BSN degree is through accelerated learning, full-time, or part-time. However, accelerated programs might not be the easiest because it requires your full attention.
Most of the time, accelerated programs have stricter and harder admission requirements than the standard learning program. School requirements may include a GPA of 3.0 or higher and a thorough screening process.
Moreover, you will also experience a heavier workload than the standard program. As a result, some nursing schools with accelerated programs will require you to stop your current job until you complete the course.
What Are the Admission Requirements?
Admissions requirements may vary from one school to another. Usually, here are the general conditions:
RN license or AND diploma
3.0 GPA or higher
Transcript of records
Criminal background check
Clinical experience (but not all)
Passing the admission test (for some nursing schools)
Check the specific requirements by inquiring about the schools. If you want, you can check our page on nursing schools by state.
How Many Clinical Hours Are Required in RN to BSN Courses?
Some nursing schools require you to complete clinical hours. In some cases, you need to finish three clinical hours for every hour of classroom learning.
Other online courses don’t require clinical, especially those classes taught 100% in an online setting. But, you might need to keep your job as a full-time nurse while completing the course.
How Can You Complete Your Clinicals?
In cases you need to complete clinical hours, you can request your school to find a suitable preceptor. Alternatively, you can arrange for a volunteer work near your place. Some nursing schools will allow your clinical experience at your current job as part of the completion requirement.
Some schools will require you to complete clinical experience from other communities or outside your school’s state. Either way, always check with the schools regarding this clinical experience. The requirement differs.
Do You Have to Take NCLEX for RN to BSN?
Well, it depends. There are two circumstances where you will take NCLEX after finishing an RN to BSN course.
First, you didn’t pass the first time. If you have decided to take the RN to BSN degree after failing, you have to take the NCLEX. Some states don’t allow registered nurses to work without NCLEX. Others will provide a temporary license until you pass your NCLEX.
Second, you didn’t take the NCLEX right after you got your RN license. Some states separate the application of RN license and NCLEX while others combine the two. If you did this, eventually, you’ll take the NCLEX-RN.
If you already took the NCLEX right after you got your RN license, you don’t need to take it after finishing an RN to BSN degree.
Here are some things to remember regarding licensing. Most states recognize your RN license taken from other states. However, some states will require you to take an exam so that you can work as a nurse, even with NCLEX-RN in your portfolio.
How Do You Know if an RN to BSN Program is the Best?
The best program will prepare nurses like you and aid you in learning about professional development. Professional development often includes learning about leadership. It improves your communication skills with patients and co-workers.
Aside from professional development, the best program will help you build the necessary skills to surpass critical situations. The goal of these RN to BSN programs is to prepare you in delivering a superior level of patient care.
Also, the best program will improve your cultural awareness and knowledge. In cultural awareness, you need to understand the different socioeconomic, racial, and religious aspects of giving healthcare to patients.
How Expensive is a Nursing Program?
The cost of a nursing program depends on the curriculum included and the type of learning. It ranges from $7,000 to 15,000. The cost of getting a bachelor’s degree may seem expensive, but don’t let it hinder you.
Some employers allow reimbursement of the cost, whether you’re a regular or part-time employee. All you need is to talk to your employer or the human resource department about your plans.
Read the next question to know more about how you can pay for the degree.
How Will You Pay for the Degree?
You can pay for the degree by retaining your job or asking for financial aid. Some employers will pay for the tuition of their employees in return for more service years. If you don’t have any means to fund your nursing course, you can seek financial assistance from the government.
The US Government provides student loans, grants, and scholarships to qualified individuals. The application requirements for these financial aids may vary from state to state. So, make sure to inquire.
Aside from the government, private organizations and individuals also provide scholarships to deserving students. An example is Johnson & Johnson. Another unconventional way is through crowdsourcing.
Can You Keep Your Job While Studying?
Generally, you can still work as a nurse while completing your Bachelor of Science degree. Many schools encourage, and some will require you to maintain a nursing job for the duration of the nursing course.
However, you might want to study full-time for accelerated programs to finish the course in less time than the standard. It means you’ll need to file a study leave from your employer.
What Can You Learn After Completing the RN to BSN Program?
These bridge programs enhance your skills and clinical knowledge. Often, the focus is on evidence-based practice. Thus, RN to BSN programs will develop your decision-making skills in critical situations.
Aside from evidence-based practice, you can have clinical experience. This clinical experience is especially helpful if you haven’t worked as a professional nurse after finishing your ADN course.
Often, the curriculum includes topics on direct and indirect care. Direct care courses deal with patient care and how you collaborate with other providers. These classes will help you create the best healthcare plan for patients.
Indirect care often relates to back-office jobs such as the formulating of sound healthcare policies and creating a system to facilitate a high level of healthcare.
What are the Advantages of Having a BSN degree?
We can think of many benefits, but we’re going to discuss only four.
First, you get better opportunities in applying for high-level positions. Nursing jobs are in demand, and this will mean the competition is fierce. So, if you have higher and advanced education in nursing, you have a greater chance to move up in the ladder. You can apply for a higher position.
You can also apply for non-clinical related jobs such as administrative positions or a researcher to enhance patient care. RN to BSN program exposes you to different non-clinical topics such as informatics.
Second, you get more in-depth training. Completion of a Bachelor of Science means you have undergone many practices in communication and critical thinking.
Third, you can earn a higher salary. Since you can apply for a higher position, your expected salary will increase, too.
Lastly, you can request for tuition reimbursement. Many employers offer this benefit as an option for their employees because it benefits both employers and employees.
Key Takeaways
With the RN to BSN program, you can become competitive with other nursing professionals. Even if you don’t plan to get a job in the direct care area, you can still help the healthcare industry through informatics and nursing management.
Before we end this post, here are two key takeaways you should remember when evaluating BSN programs.
First, you should decide based on your available time and capacity to pay for the tuition. In case you can’t pay but want to upgrade your nursing skills, you can request financial aid.
Second, you can obtain BSN through online learning while maintaining your job as a nurse. The traditional way is still available, but online education has become a standard with the fast-paced style of living.
Do you still need some information to make the decision? You can contact us or subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest nursing-related issues and topics.
Four Critical Health Care Trends 2018: Most Significant Issues
While there are many new and emerging trends we need to pay close attention to in 2018, here are the four most significant health care issues that will command our attention in the year ahead.
1. Inconsistent health care policy will continue to dominate headlines
Health care reform this year has been a case study in confusion, inefficiency, and lack of focus. Every week seemed to bring a new twist in the direction of health care policy. There is almost no consistency in the legislative thought process.
The federal government’s lack of direction on health care policy has created chaos among all industry players.
The confusion surrounding Medicaid and other joint federal-state partnerships will ultimately face the harshest consequences if states are forced to slash funding for health care.
We’re going to continue to see an inconsistency in government policies and funding. It is dangerous for hospitals in underserved communities that rely almost exclusively on Medicaid and Medicare funding.
2. Hospitals and health systems need to innovate to keep pace
The CVS-Aetna deal did not come as a surprise to industry leaders who have been keeping their ears to the ground and have paid attention to recent trends.
Providers should not view this movement as a threat that must be stopped. Instead, we should spur innovation on our end.
It will be especially intriguing to see what market segments CVS and Aetna pursue after the finalization of the merger.
It’s highly unlikely that any of the new players will be providing inpatient care. The bulk of health care funding is spent on long-term care for people at the end of life.
Market disruptions give all of us headaches, but they are ultimately beneficial because they force us to do better and be more efficient, productive and creative.
3. Improve the customer experience
The more competitive the market becomes, the more work we as providers must do to continually improve the patient experience and develop customer loyalty.
This can partly be done through improving communication and curating a more retail-focused experience.
As patients now have more access and choice for their health care than ever before. This does not only pertain to the in-person experience but also how hospitals and health systems communicate with patients to help them get information and make appointments.
Over the past five or six years, we’ve seen major changes in the way innovative organizations in all industries treat their customers.
We are in the consumer service business, and our patients are knowledgeable. They value easy access, a pleasant experience, and quality care. So it’s our job to adapt quickly to meet their needs and expectations.
4. Health care strategies must now encompass behavioral and mental health
It is the responsibility of providers to design their systems in a way that addresses the needs of these individuals.
This is especially important at a time when opioid abuse has become one of this nation’s most challenging public health crises.
The problem goes beyond drug and alcohol abuse. Studies have shown that younger generations’ increased use of technology, particularly mobile devices, can lead to increased rates of anxiety, depression or loneliness.
We as providers must consider these trends and tailor services accordingly.
Regardless of the issues we face in this ever-evolving industry, we as providers must not resist change. We must continually adapt.
Why Get A Nursing Degree Online? The great thing about online classes is you can do them anytime, anywhere, and there’s never a commute or parking problem. The flexibility, access, and convenience are unmatched, which is why record numbers of nursing students are choosing an online experience (at least in their classroom studies) than a more traditional form of nursing schooling.
But there are several steps you should follow in any online endeavor to ensure that you will be a success and that your degree will translate into a well-paying job and a good placement.
What’s the First Step?
The first step is to commit.
This commitment means to look over both the course outline and the study requirements, understand them thoroughly, and then make sure you inflate their time requirements. If the syllabus says the project, reading, or study mode will take ten hours, set aside fifteen; after all, in dealing with the internet, you are primarily going to be learning visually, and that method, for some, may take some getting used to.
More importantly, make sure that the entire timeline of the course is something you can commit to. If you reason out that the studying, done up to speed and in a timely manner, will take you 30 hours a week that you do not have, you will either need to abandon the course or free up more time somewhere.
Beyond the time commitment, however, be sure the mental and emotional commitment is there also. You’re making a big change in your life; make sure you’re married to it.
Commit as well to the assessment schedule. The assessments are the benchmarks to let the instructor know how well you are doing in completing the course, and they must be as well-reasoned, correct, and as timely as you can make them. A late test, missing answers, or a plethora of misinformation proclaims your disinterest, and lack of study, in the course. And be sensible about the study committee. Do you have a ten-question quiz? Take a few study hours. A two hundred question quiz? Take a study week.
The Second Step
This brings us to the second step, to plan. Plan regular hours every week to study; plan regular sessions with friends in the course, either in person or in online conferences, to group study. And for heaven’s sake, do this planning, and the studying, when you’re mentally alert, not at midnight on Saturday just after the club.
You should also plan a place to study, a little patch of privacy where you know where everything is, and study comes easily to you. And if family, the boyfriend, buddies, or the landlord keep dropping by, find a bookstore, library, or quiet coffee shop, and maybe add a latte to your study regime. There’s more than one kind of commitment.
The Third Step
The third step is to participate. Ask questions when the class is meeting; volunteer information if you know something; make a class-wide query if you don’t. Ask to join one of the study chat rooms (there’s bound to be at least three or more of these in the class, and one of them at least should welcome you), and participate there. One of the great things about online chat is that people are sometimes much more relaxed, and freer with their knowledge and expertise than they are in person.
This also helps you keep focus. If you’re involved with a particular online group, and you meet regularly Tuesday and Thursday nights to study JUST for the RN, that’s all to the good—it will keep you from spending those evenings finding fun electives or wild online stuff that just might distract you from your studies. If you’re expected somewhere to study online, you’ll be there, not taking an online ceramics class or leveling up on World of Warcraft.
Achieve Test Prep helps LPNs earn their ADN or BSN degree online in up to 1/2 the time and cost of traditional programs. With No Waiting List to get started, Free Books, and Low-Cost financing options available nationwide except in parts of California, Alabama, and Kansas. The LIVE instructor led test-out program allows one to learn at an accelerated pace and earn college credit-by-examination which then is eligible to be transferred to an ACEN accredited nursing school or 100’s of universities nationwide. Learn More
A Final Warning
Your internet and your computer will be your world for hours at a time. For heaven’s sake, keep all your classroom materials on a zip drive, just in case the worst should happen and your computer crashes before the big test.
And maybe you can take a few minutes every so often to leave the computer and go outside. We hear the graphics are amazing out there.
Now that you know the online nursing degree success strategies, you therefore can rely more on yourself than on luck.
Western Governors University
Salt Lake City based Western Governors University (WGU) is a private, non-profit institution that has educated students since 1999. The institution began as an idea at the Bipartisan Western Governor’s Meeting to address the growing demand and need for access to higher education. The university focuses on responding to employment and societal needs and providing a cost-effective education so that all students may access their academic goals.
Overview of Programs, Certificates and Degrees
1 online bachelor’s and 1 master’s degree program
Transfer credits are accepted; Students may earn credit based on personal and work experience
Financial aid, loans and grants are available
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Western Governors University is based on a competency-based model in which students earn credit for their performance on assessments, tests and papers, rather than the time spent in each class. Learning and program communities keep students in touch with each other and connected as they go through their course.
Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Nursing
WGU offers pre- and post- licensure Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing Degree Programs. The pre-licensure program is new, very selective and available only to students in metro areas of 4 western states due to strict clinical requirements. Because the program is based on competency units and not taught in a traditional sense, students can go through the course material at their own pace and on their schedule. Students should be prepared to dedicate 20 hours per week towards their degree program.
Duration and Cost
The program tuition ranges from $6,500 to $13,000 and can be completed in as little as 18 months. Program completion times vary based on the number of credits transferred in.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing
Nurses who hold a bachelor’s degree and RN license in good standing are eligible for the online Master’s Degree in Nursing. The program offers two specializations in Education and Leadership/Management. Courses are not at all traditional and allow students to complete as much of their degree as possible in 6 month terms. Students are given assessments, tests and papers to evaluate their degree progress.
Duration and Cost
The program can be completed in 18-24 months and students are charged less for completing their programs in a shorter amount of time as the institution bills by the session, not credit. Program tuition ranges from $9, 750 to $16,250. Tuition is $13,000-$26,000 and typically requires 4 years to complete for the RN to MSN program option.
Faculty
Faculty at Western Governor’s University do not teach, but serve as student and course mentors. They also develop coursework. All nursing faculty hold doctoral degrees.
Things to consider:
A practicum in your local community may be required to complete your program.
BSN (for pre-licensed nurses) offers very limited enrollment in only four states as the program requires offline clinical practicums.
Accreditation
WGU’s online bachelor’s and master’s nursing degree programs are accredited by the Commission for Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Address:
Western Governors University
4001 South 700 East
Suite 700
Salt Lake City, UT 84107
Walden University
Walden University is a university with a mission to offer programs promoting social change. Walden University strives to offer programs that not only develop relevant skills and knowledge necessary in the workplace but also prepare individuals to contribute to their own community.
Based on a research paper by Bud Hodgkinson, which explored the idea of a student-centered university allowing working professionals to earn advanced degrees, and the input of his colleagues the Turners, Walden University was born in 1970. As time and technological process have drastically altered the idea of convenience, Walden University has updated its format as well, now operating as a distance-learning university. Students can earn bachelor’s through doctoral degrees in the fields of education, technology, health, social and behavioral sciences.
Overview of Programs, Certificates and Degrees
Offers online bachelor’s through doctoral and post-grad certificate programs
No campus-based programs
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Online degree programs and courses at Walden University use MobileLearn(SM), a highly interactive online learning system using audio, video and text.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
The online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing program is a completion program for nurses who already have some form of nursing education. The online program is highly interactive, complete with individualized support from academic advisors. Courses in the program include:
Health Assessment
Topics in Clinical Nursing
Family, Community and Population-Based Care
Duration and Cost
The program requires 185 quarter credits for completion of which 45 must be completed at Walden University. Individual completion time of the program is different for every student, and depends on how many transfer credits are accepted.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing
Students can enter the online Master of Science degree program with an RN or BSN. Both groups have the option to choose form three tracks-Education, Leadership and Management and Nursing Informatics. Core courses include:
Issues and Trends in Nursing
Advancing Nursing Through Inquiry and Research
Information and Healthcare Technologies
Policy and Politics in Nursing and Healthcare
Duration and Cost
All specializations require 35-59 credits, depending on if the nurse enters the program with an RN or BSN.
Online Doctoral Degree in Nursing
For nurses already holding advanced qualifications and experience, the online DNP program is ideal. The program requires a practicum that may be completed in part through earning additional credits. Topics covered in the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree program (DNP) include:
Healthcare policy and advocacy
Quality improvement
Evidence-based practice
Information systems/technology
Advanced nursing practice
Organizational and systems leadership
Duration and Cost
The program requires 47-53 quarter program credits and can usually be completed in 18-24 months.
Online Certificates in Nursing
Nurses who have already earned a masters degree can earn a Post-Master’s Certificate in Nursing Education, Nursing Informatics or Nursing Leadership and Management.
Duration and Cost
The program requires 17 credits.
Faculty
All nursing faculty at Walden University hold doctoral degrees.
Things to consider:
Practicum is required for DNP program, but may be earned through course credit.
Doctor of Nursing Practice program is not accredited.
Accreditation
Walden University’s BSN and MSN degree programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Address:
Walden University
155 5th Ave S # 100
Minneapolis, MN 55401-2597
Utica College
Central New York based Utica College was founded in 1946. Though a comprehensive university, Utica College offers many benefits of a small college including personalized attention. With just under 4,000 students enrolled in their undergraduate and graduate programs, students are able to develop strong faculty relationships.
Students can choose from 37 and 21 undergraduate and graduate degree programs respectively in various fields including business administration, criminal justice, cyber security, and economic crime management.
Overview of Programs, Certificates and Degrees
Offers 1 online bachelor’s degree in nursing
Outside credits may be accepted
1 campus-based bachelor’s degree program
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
The 100% online RN to BSN Nursing program at Utica College explores Nursing Management, Clinical Pharmacology, Community Health Nursing and Health Assessment. Programs are carefully designed to include personal and professional development. Utica College does not currently offer graduate level nursing programs, but an online master’s program in Health Care Administration is offered.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
The online Bachelors degree in Nursing program at Utica College is the same program as the campus based program, and is geared towards working nurses. Though students do not participate in a clinical during their education, program faculty are recognized for their clinical expertise in particular.
Course Description
Courses in the program are delivered using WebCT, and students can expect to dedicate 12-15 hours per week to online coursework. Students will purchase required course books through the Utica College online bookstore.
Courses in the program include:
Human Genetics-Social, medical and moral issues in the research of human genetics
Cultures, Health and Healing-Examines effects of culture on health
Professional Ethics-Ethical dilemmas encountered in the profession
Clinical Research-Quantitative and qualitative methods in clinical research
Basic Statistics-Statistics for non-math majors
Career Options
According to Utica College’s sources the US Department of Labor has named nursing the top growing profession of 2012. 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 program can be completed in about 3 years, dependent upon the number of credits transferred in. Program tuition is $350 per credit hour. One-hundred twenty (120) credits total are required towards the degree and 34-55 core credits, though students with an associate’s degree are exempt from this core requirement.
Faculty
The faculty that teach the campus-based Bachelors Degree in Nursing program at Utica College also teach the online program. Faculty will also assist with job placement.
Things to consider:
Certain courses are not offered online.
Clinical experience is not a part of the program.
Students must be registered nurses with an associate’s degree to participate in the BSN program.
Accreditation
Utica College is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education. The online RN-BSN degree program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and approved by the New York State Education Department.
Address:
Utica College
1600 Burrstone Road
Utica, NY 13502
University of North Carolina
As one of the most well-known and renowned public universities, the University of North Carolina offers academic programs second to none. It is the only university to have awarded degrees in the 18th century. Beginning with one student in 1789, the university now offers 77 bachelors, 109 masters, 66 doctoral and 6 professional degrees in business, dentistry, education, law, medicine, nursing, public health and social work.
The school is also known for its athletic program, and top-notch educational resources.
Overview of Programs, Certificates and Degrees
Offers 1 online certificate program and 1 online course
Campus-based bachelor’s through doctoral degree programs
Online programs are currently suspended and not offered
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Nursing programs at the University of North Carolina have pioneered nursing education through being the first in the state to offer a four-year baccalaureate nursing degree and to offer a PhD in nursing. Its nursing programs are currently ranked fourth in the nation by US News and World Report. The School of Nursing currently does not offer any fully-online programs, as the RN to BSN has been suspended. However, several courses offer online components.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing
The RN to MSN course offers bridge courses that are completely online, and the traditional Master’s of Science in Nursing programs offers a hybrid format in which students take both online and in-person courses. Specialization options for the master’s degree include:
Health Care Systems
– Administration
– Clinical Nurse Leader & CNL/Educator
– Education, Informatics
– Outcome Management
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner/Primary Care
Family Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Duration and Cost
Tuition for the program ranges from $19,800 to $22,800 for the complete program. The program is approximately 2 years in length.
Online Certificates in Nursing
The online Occupational Health Nurse Certificate is to increase the knowledge and skill of registered nurses working in occupational healthcare settings. Courses include Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, Fundamentals of Industrial Hygiene, and Principles of Epidemiology.
Duration and Cost
The program requires 11 credits and can be completed in approximately 1 year. Tuition is $473 to $1,205 per credit for residents and non-residents respectively.
Online Courses in Nursing
The University of North Carolina has several distance learning options for nurses who may not need a degree program, but rather a theory course. The NURS R: Medical-Surgical Nursing Review for Registered Nurses is available as a theory only or theory and clinical component course.
Duration and Cost
The course requires 140 contact hours to earn the certification, and tuition is $520 plus an additional $250 fee for the clinical component.
Faculty
The University of North Carolina currently has 43 tenured/tenure track faculty members and 98 research/clinical faculty members.
Things to consider:
Some programs may require an on-campus course
Certain courses have special additional fees
Accreditation
Nursing programs at the University of North Carolina are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
Address: University of North Carolina
School of Nursing
Carrington Hall, CB#7460
Chapel Hill, NC 27599
University of Cincinnati
The University of Cincinnati in Ohio is a public research university with over 40,000 students and 300 academic programs. Despite being a large, public institution, the 15:1 student to faculty ratio is just one indicator of the personalized learning experience the University of Cincinnati strives to offer.
The college boasts many firsts and discoveries including developing the first antihistamine, electronic organ, oral polio vaccine and claiming the Golden Gate Bridge designer as an alumni.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
Offers online bachelor’s through master’s degree programs
Campus-based pre-nursing through doctoral degrees and certificate programs
Campus based programs usually offer online courses
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Nursing programs at the University of Cincinnati strive to offer the best in education and research opportunities to its students. Core values of the program are Accountability, Integrity, Respect, and Excellence. The University ranks 6th in the nation for best graduate nursing programs.
Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Nursing
The online Bachelors Degree in Nursing program (BSN) at the University of Cincinnati is available to registered nurses holding a diploma or an associate’s degree. The course curriculum includes classes in Genetics, Gerontology, Community Nursing, and Leadership and Management in Nursing. Credit for previous coursework may be awarded upon on in-depth evaluation with an advisor.
Duration and Cost
The program can be completed in one to two years depending on if students choose the full or part time option. Tuition is $293 to $693 per credit hour for part -time study, and $3473 to $8314 per term for full-time study.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing (MSN)
Online Masters of Science degrees in Nursing at the University of Cincinnati are designed for the working nurse and offer a wide range of support for nurses through professors, program and enrollment advisors, and facilitators among other staff. The course utilizes the Blackboard learning system for delivery of online courses. Master’s degree program specializations available online include:
Adult Nurse Practitioner: Evaluating and treating adults, specifically women, adolescents and the elderly
Clinical Nurse Specialist/Nurse Educator: A well-rounded role for nurses seeking to educate, provide care, and manage health care systems
Family Nurse Practitioner: Nurses serve as the primary care provider for children through adults
Nurse-Midwifery: Alternative medical approach assisting women from pre-natal care throughout the lifespan
Nursing Administration: Focuses on managing nurses and healthcare organizations
Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: Focus on improving patient’s quality of life, specifically adults
Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner: Work with female patients from puberty through menopause
Duration and Cost
The master’s program can be completed in as little as 2 years with full-time study or longer with part-time study, though the program must be completed within 5 years. Course tuition is $457 to $828 per credit and $4,567 to $8,275 per term for part-time and full-time study respectively.
Faculty
Most faculty at the University of Cincinnati hold advanced degrees in nursing including nursing PhD and Masters degrees.
Things to consider:
An in-person clinical requirement is necessary for the RN to BSN degree option.
Some nursing programs require previous experience in an area of study or a minimum amount of time in practice.
Several MSN courses require certification upon completion in order to be able to practice.
Distance learning students are not eligible for scholarships.
Accreditation
Nursing programs at the University of Cincinnati are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and National League for Nursing (NLN).
Address:
University of Cincinnati
College of Nursing
3110 Vine St.
Cincinnati OH 45221-0038
Seton Hall University
South Orange, New Jersey-based Seton Hall University serves approximately 10,000 students and offers over 60 academic majors. The four-year, private, Catholic university was founded in 1856 and claims to be the oldest diocesan university.
Though founded in the Catholic tradition, the university serves students of all backgrounds and faiths. Seton Hall University’s commitment to diversity and serving a global population is evident in the opening of the John C. Whitehead School of Diplomacy and International Relations, with the assistance of the United States branch of the United Nations.
Overview of Programs, Certificates and Degrees
1 online bachelors, 2 online masters degree programs and 1 online certificate in nursing
Campus-based bachelor’s through doctoral degrees offered
Financial aid and grants are available
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Seton Hall offered its first baccalaureate degree in 1937, and has been awarding nursing qualifications for over 65 years.
Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Nursing
The online RN to BSN program is ideal for nurses seeking to advance their education while managing personal, family, and career responsibilities. Students with diplomas and associate’s degrees are eligible, and may even opt to accelerate to the MSN degree. Courses in the program include Economic Concepts for the Professional Nurse, Community Health Perspectives, and Health Promotion across the lifespan.
Duration and Cost
The program is 32 credits. Course tuition is $958 per credit.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing
Seton Hall University offers an online Master’s of Science Degree in Nursing with two specializations—Nurse Practitioner and Health Systems Administration. The Health Systems Administration degree combines clinical nursing with training in business administration to produce knowledgeable leaders capable of leading in various healthcare settings. Graduates of these programs have served in a variety of settings both domestic and abroad. The Health Systems Administration program satisfies the requirements for the American Nurses Association’s Advanced Nursing Administration Certificate.
The online Nurse Practitioner program can be further specialized to Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Adult Nurse Practitioner and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner. Nursing Theory, Forces in Health Care, Nursing Research, Clinical Pharmacology, and Advanced Pathophysiology are required courses for the program.
Duration and Cost
The program is 33-46 credits and can be completed in 24 to 30 months depending on if the program is taken on a full or part time basis. Course tuition is $993 per credit.
Online Certificates in Nursing
Nurses with a master’s degree seeking to become a Nurse Practitioner may complete the Post-Master’s Certificate in Nursing administration and choose from the same three specializations available in the Nurse Practitioner master’s program. This program meets the guidelines of the Essentials of Master’s Education for Advanced Practice by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing and the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculty.
Duration and Cost
The program is 32 credits and tuition is $993 per credit.
Faculty
Seton Hall University employs over 40 full-time faculty with academic expertise in their field.
Things to consider:
Some programs may require on campus visits or internships.
Clinical component of the Nurse Practitioner program can be completed in students area.
Accreditation
Online nursing programs at Seton Hall University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Address:
Seton Hall University
400 South Orange Avenue
South Orange, NJ 07079
Samuel Merritt University
Founded in 1909, Oakland based Samuel Merritt University offers degree programs in the health sciences fields including nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, physician assistant, and podiatric medicine. The university is an affiliate of the Sutter Health and Alta Bates Summit Medical Center.
With three additional campuses in San Francisco, Sacramento, and San Mateo, the university strives to maintain a diverse student body reflecting the multicultural communities it serves in local healthcare systems.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
1 online doctoral degree program in nursing
Campus-based bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree offered as well
Financial aid is available
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Samuel Merritt University has been training nurses for over one hundred years. All of their programs allow students to become entry-level to advanced nurses in as little as one to three years.
Online Doctoral Degrees in Nursing
Due to increasing changes in health care, including emerging fields of study, the nursing professions is in need of skilled managers who can coordinate and deliver a wide range of patient care programs to standard, while staying on the cutting edge of healthcare development. While PhD programs tend to focus on research, the online Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Samuel Merritt University focuses on training nurses to develop and implement systems of care. The Doctor of Nursing program is new to the university and began in spring 2011. Class sizes are small, with a cohort being admitted each January of approximately 18-20 people. The DNP program has several learning goals for its graduates including the ability to carry out the following tasks in a healthcare setting:
Design locally focused and economic programs of care
Change health outcomes for the better
Critique and relate clinical scientific findings to practice
Transform health care systems through providing top level care to patients and their families
Develop aptitude for emerging fields such as genetics, global healthcare, and biomedical advances
Training in the program includes several practicums and the following key courses:
Organizational and Systems Leadership in Complex Healthcare Systems
Advanced Health Policy and Advocacy
Educational Innovations in Healthcare
Biostatistics
Epidemiology and Population Health
Evidence-Based Research
Healthcare Economics and Financial Analysis
Outcomes Management and Evaluations
Advanced Informatics
Duration and Cost
The program is 36 credits and requires approximately 2 years to complete. Program tuition is $958 per credit.
Faculty
Most nursing faculty at Samuel Merritt University hold advanced degrees.
Things to consider:
The degree program requires students to come to the California campus a minimum of one time each year
Students must have completed a statistics course with grade “B” or higher within the past three years
Students must complete a clinical component in a supervised setting
Doctoral program is not accredited by a nursing body
Accreditation
SMU is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
Address:
Samuel Merritt University
3100 Summit Street, 3rd Floor
Oakland, California 94609
Post University
Connecticut-based Post University began in 1890 as a business school. Post University began offering accelerated degree programs to Vietnam War veterans. The university later expanded, offering classes on company sites, including Johnson & Johnson, Pratt & Whitney and Cigna.
Post University expanded to multiple campuses and began offering online classes in 1996. Today, Post University offers academic courses in Business, Nursing, Accounting, Legal Studies and Education. Post University has consistently ranked 3rd on Online Education Database’s list of “Top 20 Online Degree Programs.”
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
1 online bachelor’s and 1 online certificate program
Campus-based BS program
Financial aid is available to qualifying students
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
While Post University does not offer online degrees in nursing, they have programs at the certificate and bachelor’s degree level for nurses. The BS in Management for Registered Nurses can compare to a Nursing Administrator or similar executive concentration in that it prepares nurses for leadership opportunities. According to Post University’s website, registered nurses with a certificate in legal nursing can earn $30,000 more per year than nurses with a registered nursing qualification alone.
Online Bachelor’s Degree for Registered Nurses
The online Registered Nurse to Bachelors of Science Degree in Management is a business program created specifically for nurses pursuing leadership positions in the healthcare field. Classes are designed to be highly interactive and completed in 8 week modules. Courses in the program include:
Training and Development
Organizational Theory and Development
Entrepreneurship, Creativity and Innovation
Organizational Behavior
Seminar in Management
Duration and Cost
The online bachelor’s degree program can be completed in as little as 18 months. The program requires 120 credits to earn the degree, 60 of which may be transferred from previous educational programs. Program tuition is $490 per credit hour.
Online Certificates Degree in Nursing
The online Legal Nursing Certificate is ideal for nurses seeking to provide legal consultation on matters related to healthcare and nursing. Students in the course will be trained as liaisons between health care institutions and legal teams to infer, analyze and offer advice as related to complex patient and health care outcomes. Courses in the program include:
Financial Accounting
Medical Malpractice
Introduction to Law
Civil Litigation Practice
Legal Research Personal Injury Law
Duration and Cost
The program tuition is approximately $14, 700, and requires 30 credits to earn the certification.
Faculty
Post University faculty are committed teachers with experience in their field. Most faculty hold DNP or PhD degrees and experience in the subjects in which they teach.
Things to consider:
Programs are not accredited by a nursing body.
Legal Nursing Certificate Students are required to complete an internship at a law office.
Accreditation
Post University is also accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). Post University is licensed by the State of Connecticut through the Department of Higher Education (DHE).
Address:
Post University
800 Country Club Road
P.O. Box 2540
Waterbury, CT 06723
Nebraska Methodist College
Nebraska Methodist College first began as a nursing school in 1891. The college offers associate’s through master’s level degree programs in addition to professional and certificate programs. Though a small institution with just over 700 students, over 400 credit and non-credit programs are offered. Nebraska Methodist College maintains its relationship with the United Methodist Church to this day and offers a variety of nursing and allied health programs.
Campus based Nurse Aide, Bachelor’s and LPN to BSN programs offered.
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
All online nursing degree programs at Nebraska Methodist College offer a Nursing Educator or Nursing Executive specialization.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
The online Registered Nurse to Bachelors of Science in Nursing Degree program at Nebraska Methodist College allows registered nurses the opportunity to pursue advanced education and career opportunities or pursue an advanced education to move into research, teaching, consulting and management. Core courses for the program include Health Assessment for RNs, Principles of Research, Collaborative Nursing Leadership in a Global Society, Community Health Nursing, Community Health Nursing Practicum and Complexity in Nursing. There is also a specialized option for NMH nurses.
Duration and Cost
Upon completion of prerequisites the 60 credit RN to BSN course can be completed in 18 months. Tuition and fees are $545 per credit hour including books.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing
Nebraska Methodist College offers RN to MSN and Master’s of Science in Nursing degree programs. Courses in the program include Advanced Nursing Roles & Phenomena, Measurement and Statistical Concepts for Data Interpretation and Issues in Advanced Nursing Roles.
Duration and Cost
The RN to MSN course can be completed in approximately 3 years and requires 18 bridge credits and 36 credits towards the MSN degree. The online traditional master’s degree program is 2 years in length and 36 credits. Tuition and fees are $645 per credit hour including books.
Online Certificates in Nursing
The online Post-Master’s Certificate- Nursing Executive educates nurses with a master’s degree to obtain the education and training necessary to advance into leadership positions. Courses in the program are Organizational Behavioral and Structure, Role of the Nurse Executive III: Financial Management & Economics, Role of the Nurse Executive 1: Leading an Organization and Practicum: Management, Improvement & Evaluation in Healthcare Organizations.
The online Post-Masters Certificate-Nursing Educator prepares nurses desiring to teach nurses in a clinical or didactic setting. As part of the training, students will be required to develop a course online.
Duration and Cost
The certification requires 14 credits to completion and can be completed in one year. Tuition and fees are $645 per credit hour including books.
Faculty
93% of faculty at Nebraska Methodist College hold a terminal degree in their field.
Things to consider:
A practicum is required
RN To MSN program does not offer a master’s degree
Certificate programs are not accredited by a nursing body
Accreditation
Nebraska Methodist College’s bachelors and masters nursing degree programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Address:
Nebraska Methodist College
720 North 87th Street
Omaha, NE 68114-2852
Michigan State University
Michigan State University was founded in 1855 as the Agricultural College of the State of Michigan. It was the first higher education institution to teach the science of agriculture. Based in Michigan’s capital, Lansing, the university is distinguished for its study abroad, education degree programs and basketball team. Two-hundred programs of study at the undergraduate and graduate level are offered in academic areas including Nursing, Education, Veterinary Medicine, Music and Business.
Campus based bachelor’s through doctoral degree programs
Study abroad learning experiences in Nursing available
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Online nursing degree programs at Michigan State University are offered from bachelors through doctoral level, in addition to a variety of specializations including Nurse Educator, Clinical Nurse Specialist, and Nurse Practitioner. Students may also pursue nursing study opportunities in London.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
The online RN (Registered Nurse) to MSN (Masters Degree in Nursing) degree program at Michigan state University is delivered completely online and ideal for registered nurses seeking to earn a four-year degree on a flexible schedule. Courses include Pharmacology, Health Assessment, and Community Health and Population Nursing.
Duration and Cost
The program requires approximately 32 credits long assuming that 60 credits are transferred in. An additional 30 credits are transferred for completing the NCLEX exam. The program is approximately 2 years long. Program tuition is $504.50 and $529.50 for residents and non-residents of Michigan respectively.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing
Online master degree programs at Michigan State University are offered with three specializations; however only the Clinical Nurse Specialist-Education (CNS-Ed) option is offered completely online. A hybrid (combined online and in-person delivery) program for Nurse Practitioners and a campus based Anesthesia program are also offered. The CNS-Ed option prepares graduates to take both the ANCC certification as Adult CNS, and the National League for Nursing (NLN) Education Certification. Nurses with the CNS-Ed specialization are prepared both to teach nurses and implement and lead strategies to improve patient care.
Duration and Cost
The program requires students to complete approximately 46-50 credits, and can be completed in 2-3 years full or part-time. Program fees are $607.25 to $632.325 per credit for resident and non-residents respectively.
Online Certificates in Nursing
Clinical Nurse Specialist certifications are offered completely online. The Clinical Nurse Specialist certificate offers courses in Clinical Decision Making, Pathophysiology and Pharmacology.
Duration and Cost
The Clinical Nurse specialist certificate is 25 credits and requires approximately one to two years long. Program fees are $607.25 to $632.325 per credit for resident and non-residents respectively.
Faculty
The majority of nursing instructors and faculty at Michigan State University hold advanced qualifications.
Things to consider:
Clinical component is required and may be completed in student’s home community
Visit to campus may be required for certification programs
Certificate programs may not be accredited by a nursing body
Accreditation
Nursing degree programs at Michigan State University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Address:
Michigan State University
College of Nursing
A117 Life Sciences Building
East Lansing, MI 48824-1317
Loyola University New Orleans
Since 1912 when granted a charter to become a university, Loyola University of New Orleans has strived to educate the whole person. Though founded in the Jesuit tradition and staking the claim as the first Jesuit University in New Orleans, Loyola University is open to students of all faiths. Loyola University of New Orleans is recognized nationally for its library, business and nursing programs.
Overview of Programs, Certificates and Degrees
1 online bachelors, 1 online masters and 1 online doctoral degree program
Campus-based bachelors, masters and doctoral degree offered as well
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Loyola University of New Orleans’ online Master of Science in Nursing program is considered by some independent reviewers as among the best in the nation.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
Nurses holding an associates degree may enroll in the online Bachelors of Science in Nursing degree program through Loyola University New Orleans. Courses for the program include:
Health Assessment, Nursing Leadership, Spirituality in Health and Illness, Issues in Professional Nursing, Population Health, and Advance Topics in Nursing Practice.
Duration and Cost
The course requires 121 credits, the last 30 of which must be completed through Loyola. Course tuition is $702 per credit hour. The average yearly cost of a student not living on campus is $33,552 per year.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing
Loyola University New Orleans offers a traditional online Master’s Degree in Nursing as well as a BLEND program, which is comparable to most RN to MSN programs. The online master’s degree in Nursing offers a Health Care Systems Management
specialization. The specialization trains nurses to take leadership positions in a variety of healthcare settings. The BLEND program is a short course for nurses with a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing.
Duration and Cost
The course requires 36 credits and can normally be completed in 24 months. The BLEND bridge program is 6 credits, and requires 1 semester to complete. Students then can move on to the traditional master’s program. Course tuition is $702 per credit hour.
Online Doctoral Degrees in Nursing
The Doctoral Degree in Nursing program (DNP) offers several options for degreed nurses seeking to advanced their education and career opportunities. The post-MSN program offers specialization as a Nurse Practitioner, while the post-Bachelor’s option offers specialization as a family nurse practitioner.
Duration and Cost
The course requires 38 to 76 credit hours depending on if the nurse holds a bachelor’s or master’s degree specialization. Course tuition is $702 per credit hour.
Faculty
Nursing faculty at Loyola University New Orleans hold advanced degrees and currently hold a doctoral degree or are enrolled in a doctoral program. Some hold degrees in other fields such as law.
Things to consider:
Loyola University New Orleans does not offer lower division nursing courses; students must earn and transfer in their undergraduate coursework from another institution.
Students may enter BSN program in one of three start dates, Summer, Spring or Fall.
Programs may require a campus visit.
Doctor of Nursing programs is not yet accredited; the results of the accreditation visit by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) will be known by the Spring.
Accreditation
Loyola University New Orleans’ bachelor’s and master’s nursing degree programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing (NLN). The Master of Science degree program for Nurse Practitioners is approved by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing.
Address:
Loyola University New Orleans
6363 St. Charles Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70118
Gonzaga University
Gonzaga University was founded by Father Joseph Cataldo in 1887 with the goal of establishing a school for young men desiring to become Jesuit priests. Today, Gonzaga still maintains its Roman Catholic, Jesuit tradition and operates as a private co-educational institution. With majors in Arts and Sciences, Business, Education, Engineering and Professional Studies, the university now has over 75 academic programs and majors.
Overview of Programs, Certificates and Degrees
2 online master’s degree programs
Campus based bachelor’s degree and post-masters certificate program
Students may transfer in up to 20% of undergraduate or graduate credits
Grants and nursing specific scholarships are available through the university
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Online nursing programs at Gonzaga University accommodate both nurses with a bachelors degree and those with an associate’s degree seeking advanced qualifications. Nursing programs are flexible and tailored to each individual learner’s specific needs.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing
The online RN to MSN program offers the opportunity for nurses with an associate’s degree to earn a master’s degree more quickly than earning a bachelor’s and master’s degree separately.
Core curriculum in the online master’s degree programs includes the following topics:
Research theories and methods
Pathophysiology and pharmacology
Improving health care systems
Leadership skills and ethics
The degree program offers two specializations:
Nurse Educator: Prepare for a career as an instructor and learn how to create, implement and evaluate curriculum. Core courses for the Nurse Educator specialization include:
Pathophysiology
Curriculum Development
Assessment of Student Learning and Evaluation
Current Issues in Nursing Education and Transition into Nurse Educator Role
A 3-9 credit practicum
Health Systems Leadership: Learn how to manage new technology, integrate different systems and become an effective healthcare executive. Core courses for the Nurse Educator specialization include:
Nursing Leadership and Development
Information and Quality Management
Communication and Relationship Management
Health Care Management: Financial Stewardship and Decision Support/Strategies
Legal, Regulatory and Ethical Healthcare Environments
A 3-9 credit practicum
The degree earned in the online degree program is the same as the on campus program. Students can collaborate with other students from the course through online discussion boards and a “Student Lounge” forum. Students can also participate in discussion with their professors through online message boards.
Duration and Cost
The program length is 36 to 66 credits depending if the student has already obtained a bachelors degree. Program completion time is approximately 2.5 years for students who take at least two courses each semester.
Faculty
All online teaching faculty at Gonzaga University hold advance degrees and several years of experience in their field. All faculty that design courses hold doctoral degrees.
Things to consider:
Completion of a practicum is required to complete the degree
Depending on which specialization is chosen a residency may be required
Accreditation
Gonzaga’s online RN to MSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Address:
Gonzaga University
502 East Boone Avenue
Spokane, WA 99258-0102
Duquesne University
Pennsylvania based Duquesne University was founded in 1878 as a Catholic institution by the Congregation of the Holy Spirit. Duquesne University offers undergraduate programs in Business, Education, Health Sciences, Leadership, Liberal Arts, Music, Natural and Environmental Sciences, Nursing, and Pharmacy in addition to over 70 graduate programs. Duquesne University has received accolades from U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and other academic organizations for everything from its eco-friendly campus to being one of the top-ranked universities in Pennsylvania.
Overview of Programs, Certificates and Degrees
Online master, doctoral and certificate programs
Campus-based undergraduate programs
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Online degree programs at Duquesne University utilize the popular Blackboard online learning system for course delivery. Though delivered online, class sizes are still small, with an average of 10-20 students per class.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing
The online masters degree in nursing offers the following three specializations:
Family Nurse Practitioner
Forensic Nursing
Nursing Education
The online masters degree programs incorporate the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses Synergy Model, which trains nurses to successfully guide families through the healthcare system. Core courses for the three programs include Methods of Nursing Research, Bioethical Decision-Making in Nursing and Healthcare, and Population-Based Health Promotion.
Duration and Cost
Course tuition is $1,034 per credit. Program length ranges from 38-47 credits.
Online Doctoral Degrees in Nursing
Duquesne University offers two online doctoral level programs, a PhD in nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice qualification. With a focus on academic research, the PhD program has been in operation since 1997, and stakes the claim of the first fully online nursing PhD program in the country. Major areas of research focus for the program include vulnerable populations, cultural competence, forensics, social justice and health promotion.
While the PhD prepares nurses for a role as an academic, the Doctor of Nursing program is for nurses who desire to remain in practice and improve health care programs on many levels including health care policy, organizational effectiveness, and patient care services.
Duration and Cost
Course tuition is $1,034 per credit. The PhD program requires 58 credits and the DNP program requires 33 credits. The PhD program will generally require 4 years of study, while the DNP program 2 years.
Online Certificates in Nursing
Certificate programs at Duquesne University allow nurses the opportunity to develop area-specific skills that may not have been available in their degree programs. Nurses can choose from four specializations for the Post-Master’s Certificate in Nursing:
Family Nurse Practitioner
Forensic Nursing
Nursing Education
Transcultural/International Nursing
Duration and Cost
Course tuition is $1,034 per credit hour. The certificate programs range from 23 to 44 credits.
Faculty
Duquesne University employs 38 full-time and 50 part-time faculty.
Things to consider:
Students are required to come to campus to demonstrate competencies though all coursework is offered online.
Accreditation
Nursing programs at Duquesne University are accredited by the PA State Board of Nursing and Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Address:
Duquesne University
School of Nursing
5th Floor Fisher Hall
600 Forbes Ave
Pittsburgh, PA 15282
Drexel University
Philadelphia based Drexel University is one of the most well-known and revered institutions both on and offline. Founded in 1891 in the “City of Brotherly Love,” Drexel University boasts accolades from U.S. News and World Report including being the nation’s 14th largest university and ranked in the top 10 of the “Up-and-Comers” list.
Drexel University began offering online programs in 1996, and its Education, Business, Engineering and Library Science programs are also ranked among the best by U.S. News and World Report. Other fields of online study are Nursing, Communications, Clinical Research, Psychology, Public Health, Information Systems, Toxicology, and Industrial Hygiene.
Overview of Programs, Certificates and Degrees
Online bachelor’s through doctoral degrees and certificates offered
Flexible course schedule-students may take one course or up to 12+ credits
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Drexel University offers unlimited comprehensive online degree programs for registered nurses seeking to advanced their education and career opportunities.
Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Nursing
The online RN to BSN degree program at Drexel University prepares nurses for the population-based and managed care environment. Students may customize electives to their preferred interests and area of focus. The online bachelor’s degree in nursing program at Drexel University has three tiers to completion:
Tier 1: Transfer of prior credits (courses that would normally be completed simultaneously with the nursing license)
Tier 2: Completion of remaining general degree and elective courses
Tier 3: Completion of upper division nursing courses
Nursing courses in tier 3 include Critical Issues Shaping Professional Nursing, Nursing Informatics and Genetics in Nursing and Health.
Drexel University also offers an online bachelor’s degree in Health Services Administration for nurses seeking leadership positions in the healthcare setting. Nurses who complete this program may find employment in the following places:
Hospitals
Clinics
Managed-care organizations
Health-insurance companies
Health-marketing firms
Law firms focusing on health-care issues
Duration and Cost
To graduate, 180 quarter credits are required; up to 133 credits may be transferred from previous education. Nurses employed by health system partners and community colleges may be eligible for a specialized tuition plan. Tuition ranges from $454 to $545 per credit for the RN to BSN online degree program, depending on if the student is a member of a partner organization. The Bachelor’s of Science degree in Health Services Administration is $650 per credit.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing
Drexel University offers comprehensive online Master of Science in Nursing degree programs for nurses considering pursuing a master’s degree. In addition to an RN to MSN completion program, students can choose from one of several specializations for the master’s degree:
MSN in Innovation and Intra/Entrepreneurship in Advanced Nursing Practice
MSN Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
MSN Nurse Practitioner Track – Pediatric Primary Care
MSN in Nursing Education & Faculty Role
MSN in Nursing Leadership in Health Systems Management
MSN in Clinical Trials Research
MSN Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
MSN Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Duration and Cost
Tuition ranges from $610 to $765 per credit. Program length ranges from 45 credits to 58 credits for the traditional online master’s programs. The RN to MSN online program has 12 bridge credits, as nurses should already hold a bachelor’s degree in another area of study.
Online Doctoral Degree in Nursing
The newly online Doctoral Degree in Nursing program at Drexel University seeks to provide both a practical and research-based education. Students may choose from four tracks:
•The Clinical Executive Track: Health Care Management
Year 2 of the program also requires a short-term (2 week) study abroad session in England.
Duration and Cost
The program requires 48 credits and is meant to be completed in three years on a part-time basis. The program tuition is $729 per credit.
Online Certificates in Nursing
Over ten online post bachelors and masters nursing certificate programs are available to Drexel University students. The following nursing certificate programs are offered:
Post-Master’s Certificate Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Post-Master’s Certificate in Nursing Education & Faculty Role
Post-Master’s Certificate in Innovation and Intra/Entrepreneurship in Advanced Nursing Practice
Post-Master’s Certificate in Medical Family Therapy
Physician Assistant Post-Professional Master’s Program
Post-Bachelor’s Certificate in Innovation and Intra/Entrepreneurship in Advanced Nursing Practice
Post-Bachelor’s Certificate in Nursing Education & Faculty Role
Post-Bachelor’s Certificate in Leadership in Health Systems Management
Post-Bachelor’s Certificate in Clinical Trials Research
Certificate of Advanced Study in Complementary and Integrative Therapies
Certificate in Medical Billing and Coding
Duration and Cost
The programs range in tuition from $600 to $765 per credit, and require 12 to 45 credits.
Things to consider:
Prospective applicants must hold a nursing license; students who do not hold a nursing license may obtain one through an on-campus program at Drexel University.
Nurses with a bachelors degree in another field should consider the online RN to MSN program.
Nurses in the RN to MSN online program should hold a bachelor’s degree.
Clinical components of the master’s and doctoral programs may require some components of the program to be completed in-person.
Accreditation
Drexel University’s nursing programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission (NLNAC) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Address:
Drexel University
3141 Chestnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Vanderbilt University
Nashville-based Vanderbilt University is one of the most sought-after institutions in the nation. Known for its innovative research programs and projects, the university also has strong ties with the community. Vanderbilt University awards baccalaureate through doctoral degrees in seven schools including Blair School of Music, School of Engineering, Peabody College (Education and Human Development), Law School, Divinity School, School of Nursing, and Owen Graduate School of Management among others.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
1 online masters degree in nursing program
Campus-based masters through post-doctoral programs
Flexible and modified scheduling to accommodate busy nurses
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
The nursing school at Vanderbilt University is ranked fifteen in the nation according to U.S. News and World Report. Though currently only one online course is offered, Vanderbilt University offers many course options and flexible scheduling to accommodate the busy nurses’ needs. Courses at the MSN level are offered to non-nurses and nurses alike. For nurses who have already earned their degree without a specialization, post-MSN certifications and paid post-doctoral opportunities are available. Modified block scheduling is available for some courses. This method utilizes online conferencing, video, and virtual course delivery, in addition to a block of time (usually 5 days including a weekend) to deliver nursing courses. Doctoral degree programs accept BSN students, and post-doctoral programs are offered for nurses with terminal degree-seeking continuing education opportunities. The nursing school also offers a wide variety of continuing education courses and options, including conferences, and the ability for nurses to take classes as non-credit for professional development purposes. The Vanderbilt University nursing program truly offers options for everyone.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing (MSN)
The online Master of Science Degree Program in Health Systems Management trains nurses to provide leadership across a wide variety of nursing settings. The program prepares nurses for everything from managing a nursing team to making financial and operational decisions. Managed Care Firms, Data Management Firms, and Community-Based Clinics are a few of the places nurses with a Health Systems Management specialization may find employment. Nurses may take a specialization exam in Health Systems Management through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) upon completion of the nursing course. Courses in the program include Management Strategies for Health Care Systems, Health Care Management of Populations, and Advanced Practice Nurse Role within the US Healthcare Delivery System.
Duration and Cost
The program is 39 credits and may be completed in as little as 1 calendar year. The course may also be completed on a part-time basis. The estimated course tuition for the program is $42,432.
Faculty
Faculty at Vanderbilt University are nationally recognized in their field and include a substantial number of male faculty members.
Things to consider:
Clinical practica must be completed as part of the program
Accreditation
Vanderbilt University’s MSN degree programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission (NLCAC) and approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing.
Address:
Vanderbilt University
School of Nursing
Godchaux Hall 207
461 21st Avenue South
Nashville, TN 3724
University of Wisconsin Green Bay
The year 1965 was one of celebration for Green Bay, with the Packers winning their first championship, the inaugural campus of the University of Wisconsin Green Bay receiving donated land, and campus construction beginning for the University of Wisconsin Green Bay. The Green Bay campus of the University of Wisconsin was founded in 1965, with a plan for problem-solving-based, interdisciplinary study.
This regional, public university serves over 6,000 students and is part of the University of Wisconsin system. Programs of study include over 40 undergraduate and graduate programs in addition to 12 pre-professional programs. Popular majors include Business Administration, Psychology, Human Biology, Human Development, Communication, Elementary Education, Nursing, Accounting, Interdisciplinary Studies, and English.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
Offers 2 distinct online bachelor degree completion programs, one for nurses residing in Wisconsin, and 1 for nurses residing elsewhere
Campus-based bachelors degree program
Campus specializes in RN to BSN education
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
The University of Wisconsin at Green Bay offers 1 online degree completion program, a Registered Nurse to Bachelor’s of Science (RN to BSN) degree in Nursing program. The program also offers a campus-based BSN degree. Students may participate in study abroad programs to learn about health care and health systems in other countries.
Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Nursing
The online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing program at the University of Wisconsin offers the opportunity to engage with peers through distance learning, while also offering a flexible scheduling opportunity for students seeking to earn their degree at their own convenience. The BSN Home program is for students who desire to study online and live in Wisconsin. For aspiring BSN students outside of Wisconsin, a BSN can be pursued through the BSN-Linc program. Students in the BSN-Home program may choose the closest institution in the University of Wisconsin network to pursue their studies. Campuses in the network include Milwaukee, Oshkosh, Eau Claire, Madison, and Green Bay. Though flexible, the course does have deadlines and requires students to comment on their peer’s submissions and submit online assignments in a timely matter. Courses in the program include:
Health Assessment
Theoretical Foundations of Nursing
Management and Leadership
Adaptation to Chronic Illness and Disability
Global Aspects of Health Care
Geographic Information Systems in Health
Women’s Health Care Issues
Duration and Cost
The BSN degree is 120 credits, half of which are typically transferred from previous educational experiences at the associate’s degree level. Tuition for the BSN Linc program is $405 per credit. Spring 2012 tuition for the BSN home program is $428 per credit.
Faculty
Faculty at the University of Wisconsin, Green Bay are knowledgeable in their areas of expertise and have experience teaching adult learners.
Things to consider:
The BSN-Home program requires some campus-based course attendance; students in the BSN-Linc program are not required to come to campus.
Students are required to find and obtain required course materials on their own.
Clinical is required for the BSN Linc program and may be completed in the student’s home state.
Accreditation
The University of Wisconsin Green Bay is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Universities. Nursing programs at the University of Wisconsin, Green Bay are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The institution was accredited by both NLNAC (National League for Nursing Accreditation Committee) and CCNE and elected to maintain only the CCNE accreditation.
Address:
University of Wisconsin – Green Bay
2420 Nicolet Drive
Green Bay, WI 54311-7001
University of Missouri, Kansas City
University of Missouri – Kansas City (UMKC) was founded in 1929. In 1930, the then University of Kansas City merged with Lincoln and Lee University. Beginning with just 265 students and 17 instructors in 1933, the university now has over 15,000 students and almost 4,000 faculty. Students are able to choose from over 125 academic areas of study in 3 campus locations.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
1 online bachelors degree, 1 online masters degree, 2 online doctoral degrees, and 1 certificate program
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
UMKC offers comprehensive online degrees from the bachelor’s through the doctoral level, both on-campus and online.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
The online Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree program is a competency program that focuses on developing leadership skills in nurses including being a manager, coordinator, and designer of healthcare programs. Programs in the course include Pathophysiology, History of Nursing, and Scientific Inquiry. Through the Rural Nurse Initiative (RNI) program, certain nurses serving in rural areas can enroll in the online degree program, and receive benefits such as a personal laptop on loan and reimbursement for fees related to a broadband connection to connect to online courses.
Duration and Cost
The degree program is 120 credits. The total length of the program will vary on the number of units transferred in for the previous studies in nursing. Students enrolled in online programs pay in-state tuition fees. The program tuition varies per total credit hours enrolled, and undergraduate tuition is approximately $300-$350 per credit hour.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing
The online Master Degree Program at the University of Missouri, Kansas City offers a Nurse Educator specialization. Previous tracks as a Nurse Practitioner have been discontinued and instead, students may now apply for the new BSN to DNP program.
Duration and Cost
The program is 41 credits. Students enrolled in online programs pay in-state tuition fees. The program tuition varies per total credit hours enrolled, and graduate tuition is approximately $365-$415 per credit hour.
Online Doctoral Degrees in Nursing
The School of Nursing at the University of Missouri-Kansas City offers a traditional research-based, academic doctoral program and also a practice-based DNP program for nurses interested in remaining in practice after earning their doctoral degree.
Duration and Cost
The Ph.D. program is 49 to 61 credit hours depending on if students hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree program at the time of enrolling in the program. The DNP program is 31 credit hours. Students enrolled in online programs pay in-state tuition fees. The program tuition varies per total credit hours enrolled, and graduate tuition is approximately $365-$415 per credit hour.
Online Certificates in Nursing
The online Post-Master’s Nurse Educator certificate allows nurses to complete nurse educator training after their degree program and prepares nurses to take the Nurse Educator certification exam offered by the National League of Nursing.
Duration and Cost
The program is 12 credits. Students enrolled in online programs pay in-state tuition fees. The graduate tuition is approximately $365-$415 per credit hour.
Faculty
At UMKC, 95% of faculty hold a terminal degree in their field of study.
Things to consider:
Programs may require an on-campus component.
Some courses may require students to arrange and complete a clinical practicum
Accreditation
The University of Missouri, Kansas City is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Nursing programs at the UMKC are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Address:
University of Missouri – Kansas City
School of Nursing
Health Sciences Building
2464 Charlotte St.
Kansas City, MO 64108
University of Saint Mary
The University of Saint Mary was founded in 1923 as a liberal arts college in the Catholic tradition. The University offers a value-based education with equal focus on academics and morality. The Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth founded the institution. Today the University of Saint Mary offers 26 undergraduate and 5 graduate degree programs. Since 2005, The Princeton Review has ranked the University of Saint Mary among the Best Midwestern Colleges.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
1 online bachelors degree program in nursing
1 campus based bachelors degree program is also offered
Students may be eligible to obtain credit for life experience
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Nursing programs at the University of Saint Mary seek to integrate faith, personal values and excellence in academics to produce students who are contributing members to society.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
Not only does earning a BSN offer the opportunity for nurses to offer better patient outcomes and increased quality of care, but also access to more advanced opportunities with a higher salary. Students in the University of Saint Mary’s online RN to BSN program may have the opportunity to simultaneously earn a certificate in Health Care Management as a stepping to leadership opportunities.
The BSN program focuses on developing critical thinking and decision-making skills in the areas of health assessment, nursing care plan development, intervention implementation, and outcome evaluation. Mission in Health Care: A Theological Perspective, Nursing as a Profession, End of Life Care, Senior Integrative Seminar and Research in Nursing are some of the courses required to complete the nursing degree. Students have the option of attending a graduation ceremony on campus, though the entire degree program may be completed online. The career outlook for nurses with a BSN qualification is very bright, with most openings being available in physicians’ offices, home health care and nursing care facilities.
Duration and Cost
Students can complete their program in as little as 18 months with continuous enrollment. The total credits required for the bachelor’s degree is 128, 29 of which must be nursing credits. Students may transfer credits from previous coursework to the program. The most recent tuition fee is $345 per credit hour, and is subject to change. The amount of credit hours required to complete the program depends on the number of credit hours transferred in.
Faculty
Faculty in the nursing program at the University of Saint Mary hold advanced degrees in their profession and a significant amount of experience (some with 40+years) in the nursing profession.
Things to consider:
Students must complete a clinical project in the workplace or community.
Some courses may require proctoring of exams.
Accreditation
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Saint Mary is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The University of Saint Mary is accredited by the North Central Association of Schools & Colleges.
Address:
University of Saint Mary
4100 South 4th St
Leavenworth, KS 66048
University of Pittsburgh
The University of Pittsburgh is one of the oldest and most traditional colleges in the United States. Originally founded in 1787 as a small private school in a log cabin, the University of Pittsburgh has grown to 4 regional campuses with over 30,000 students. Education, engineering, social work, business and information systems are a few of the subjects that students can study.
The Masters Degree in Nursing Clinical Nurse Leader specialization allows students to gain the experience and skill necessary to function as a nurse across a wide spectrum. Students are expected to participate in the rich online learning community available to them, and face-to-face sessions may be required. Online learning at the University of Pittsburgh offers opportunity for discussion, problem solving, critical thinking, research, and community building. Students may attend classes on the main campus, and also participate in an online information session. Courses include Healthcare Outcomes, Research for Evidence Based Practice and Advanced Pharmacology.
Duration and Cost
The program may be completed in two years on a full-time basis. It is also an option to study part-time. Tuition is $11,006 and $12, 694 per term for Pennsylvania residents and non-residents respectively. The program requires 2-3 terms per academic year.
Online Doctoral Degree in Nursing
The post-masters online Doctor or Nursing Practice program is available only to nurses who have completed a master’s degree. Additional doctoral programs include PhD’s in nursing are available on the University of Pittsburgh Campus. The program offers the following nine specializations:
Nursing Administration/Leadership
Nurse Anesthesia
Clinical Nurse Specialist
Medical-Surgical*
Psychiatric Mental Health
Nurse Practitioner
Acute Care*
Adult*
Family*
Neonatal*
Pediatric*
Specializations noted with an asterisk (*) may require some travel to the Pittsburgh area, though not all specializations do. Corse courses include Ethics, Grant Writing and Finance and Economics for Health Care Leaders. The program requires 2-3 terms per academic year.
Duration and Cost
Most doctoral programs take three years to complete on a full-time basis, depending on the specialization required. Tuition is $11,006 and $12, 694 per term for Pennsylvania residents and non-residents respectively.
Online Continuing Education Courses in Nursing
The School of Nursing offers several online continuing education courses for nurses to maintain compliance with state requirements. Courses range from 1.5 to 6.5 continuing education credits and have registration fees from $30 to $130 per course. Course currently are offered are:
Clinical Ethics for Nurses
Nursing Preceptor Program
Introduction to Nursing Informatics for Nurse Educators
Preconception Counseling for Adolescent and Adult Women with Diabetes
Addiction Training for Nurses (SBIRT)
Moving the Classroom into the 21st Century
Faculty
41% of faculty hold leadership positions in national organizations and 76% have received doctoral level education
Things to consider:
In some cases clinical practicums may not be available in a student’s local community.
Verify your state is not listed in the state restrictions list for online degree programs.
Accreditation
Nursing programs at the University of Pittsburgh are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The master’s and doctoral level degree programs are also accredited by the Council on Accreditation. Continuing education courses are accredited by American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.
Address:
University of Pittsburgh
School of Nursing
3500 Victoria Street
Victoria Building
Pittsburgh, PA 15261
University of North Alabama
The University of North Alabama was founded in 1880 as La Grange College. The university was set up by the Methodist Episcopal Church as a secular institution. The University of North Alabama identifies itself as the first state-chartered college in Alabama. Though its roots were as a Southern teachers college, the university now has over 60 undergraduate majors and students from over 50 countries.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
1 online bachelor’s and two online masters degree programs.
Campus based traditional and accelerated bachelor’s degrees are available.
Federal financial aid and scholarships are available.
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Nursing programs at the University of North Alabama seek to provide nurses an education opportunity that suits their needs through online, traditional and accelerated programs.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
All courses in the Bachelors Degree in Nursing program are completed online. Students are required to attend clinical practicums in their local area. The program accepts up to 30 credits from a previous nursing program. Core courses for the program include Leadership, Role Theory and Community Nursing.
Duration and Cost
Students in the flex-track (online only) option are waived non-resident fees. Total credits required for the program are 128, some of which may be transferred from a previous institution. Tuition is $204 per credit hour, and $2,448.00 per semester for 12 hours of undergraduate tuition.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
Students seeking an online Master Degree in Nursing have the option of pursuing the RN to MSN or general MSN degree program. Students in the RN to MSN program are awarded both BSN and MSN degrees (this is not always the case in RN to MSN programs) and their course load is reduced by one semester (or 9 credit hours) by earning the degrees in this accelerated option. The Master of Science in Nursing Degree option offers two specializations—Nursing In Teaching and Learning Environments and Nursing Leadership in Organizational Environments. All courses are offered online and in asynchronous format, and some courses are offered through Jacksonville State University’s online nursing program. Core courses for both programs include Advanced Nursing Theory, Health Promotion Across the Life Span and Human Diversity and Ethics.
Duration and Cost
Students in the flex-track (online only) option are waived non-resident fees. Approximately 42 credits are required for the program. Tuition is $247 per credit hour. Students in the RN to MSN option may have additional undergraduate tuition fees for their coursework.
Things to consider:
Some courses require on campus proctored exams
Students must attend clinical practicums in their local area
Students must meet a 2.5 GPA requirement to be admitted into the BSN program
A 3.0 GPA is required for admittance into the master’s degree program.
Accreditation
University of North Alabama’s nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing.
Address:
University of North Alabama
One Harrison Plaza
Florence, AL 35632
University of Central Missouri
Founded in 1871 as a normal school for teachers, the University of Central Missouri now offers over 150 degree programs and has over 11,000 undergraduate and graduate students.Ninety-two (92) percent of students obtain jobs within 6 months of graduation.
Fields of study include nursing, aviation, business and technology. The university also prides itself in generous financial support and scholarships available to incoming, current, transfer, international and graduate students in addition to federal financial aid.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
Offers 1 online bachelors, 2 online masters degree in nursing, and several non-credit certificate programs
FAFSA (federal financial aid) accepted
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Online programs at University of Central Missouri offer comprehensive learning opportunities for nurses of all levels whether pursuing a bachelor’s degree or post-graduate certification.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
The online RN to BSN offers the opportunity to gain advanced skills and knowledge to pursue career options in settings including public health, home health, nursing management, program planning, and health teaching. Courses in the program including Assessment Across the Lifespan, Advanced Concepts of Wellness for RNs and Socio-Economic Factors Impacting Health.
Duration and Cost
Students can complete the program in 1 to 4 years depending on if they choose to enroll full or part-time. Tuition is $251.30 per credit hour. Approximately 30 credit hours are required for the program depending how many credit hours are transferred in.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing
Online Master of Science in Nursing degree programs are available with a Rural Family Nursing or Nurse Educator specialization. While the Nurse Educator Specialization may be completed entirely online, the Rural Family Nursing specialization requires students complete clinical trials in Missouri. Core courses in the master’s program include Theories of Nursing, Contemporary Issues in Health Care Delivery and Nursing and Nursing Research.
Duration and Cost
The course requires 32 to 44 credit hours. Tuition is $307 per credit hour.
Online Certificates in Nursing
The following non-credit certificates are available to assist nurses in advancing their career education:
Legal Nursing Consulting- This certificate will assist nurse in providing legal counsel to lawyers on nursing matters. The course is $93 and requires 24 hours of instruction.
Legal and Ethical Issues in Nursing provides nurses with advanced instruction in key legal and ethical issues to provide better patient care. The course is $149 and has 23 contact hours of instruction.
Both courses may be completed online and within 6 weeks of program enrollment.
Faculty
A faculty mentor assists nursing students in planning a course to meet their individualized goals and needs for the program.
Things to consider:
The program is only open to students residing in the United States.
Specific admission application deadlines for master’s program, verify dates an apply accordingly.
Nursing degree programs are not accredited by a nursing body.
Accreditation
The University of Central Missouri is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The online certificate programs are delivered by ALLEGRA Learning Solutions, LLC which is accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.
Address:
University of Central Missouri
School of Graduate & Extended Studies
HUM 410
Warrensburg, MO 64093
The College Network
The College Network is a private educational company that partners with universities to offer top-notch degree programs and certificates delivered entirely online. Degrees available range from associate’s to doctoral level and certificate programs. Areas of study available include health care, nursing, business, criminal justice, fire science, human resources, project management, marketing, lean six sigma and legal studies.
The College Network also makes test prep review materials for nursing programs. All programs are accredited and are estimated at 50% cost of traditional degree programs. Students complete a portion of their degree program through The College Network, and in no case is campus attendance required during this portion of the program. The remaining portion is completed through enrollment in the partner university. Students may earn their degree in less time than traditional programs while in the comfort of their home. The College Network is based in Indiana and has been in operation since 2002.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
2 online associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs and 1 certificate program.
Financing may be available for The College Network portion of studies.
Clinical Readiness Program offered through ePatient technology offers virtual simulation opportunities in lieu of clinical trials.
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Credits earned through The College Network’s Comprehensive Learning Modules™ can be transferred towards completion of a degree program at a variety of colleges and universities.
Online Associate’s Degrees in Nursing
Two online associate’s degree programs are offered through The College Network, the LPN/LVN to RN and Paramedic to RN programs. Each program is designed to assist healthcare professionals with a diploma or certificate in earning the basic degree qualifications for nurses.
Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Nursing
Two online programs, LPN to BSN and RN to BSN are offered for both diploma and degree holding nurses to earn their bachelor’s degrees. The bachelor’s degree is the first stepping stone towards positions in nursing leadership. The College Network offers 5 RN to BSN programs through several nationally accredited universities.
Online Master’s Degrees in Nursing
The online master’s programs are available through Regis University and consist of an RN to MSN and general MSN program. The program can be completed in less than 24 months and includes courses in Research in Nursing and Healthcare Policy.
Online Certificate in Nursing
The Ethics in Nursing certificate offers 2.5 continuing education contact hours. The course may be purchased and completed entirely online at any time.
Course costs and duration vary according to the partner university through which the program is completed. Check with the relevant program for duration and costs.
Things to consider:
Only a portion of courses are completed through the College Network.
In some cases students may be required to go to campus for clinical practicums or the post-College Network portion of their program.
Local practicums may be required to earn the degree.
Accreditation
The College Network degree programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission or Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Address:
The College Network
3815 River Crossing Pkwy Ste 260
Indianapolis, IN 46240
Stevens Henager College
Stevens-Henager College was founded in 1891 by J.A. Smith as Intermountain Business College. After several name changes, the college became known in 1959 as Stevens-Henager College, the name it holds to this day. Though originally founded as a business college, the school has grown to offer programs in health care, nursing and information technology. With main headquarters in Ogden, the college has branched out to four other locations in Utah, Colorado and Idaho.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
Offers 1 online bachelor’s and 1 online master’s degree in nursing
Campus based nursing programs are also available
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 Stevens-Henager College 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 online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN) and Nursing Administration programs 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 master’s of nursing degree program explore research and statistics, the focus of the baccalaureate program is on practical aspects of nursing and students are not expected to apply research concepts as in the master’s degree. The bachelor’s degree programs offer a general Nursing and Nursing Administration degree and a Nursing Administration degree with one of five emphases — Clinical Nurse Educator, Community Health Nurse, Nurse Case Manager and Nursing Informatics emphasis.
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 their degree.
Duration and Cost
The online nursing programs require 20 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 range from $30,155 to $40,385.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing (MSN)
The online master’s degrees in nursing offer a specialization in Nursing Administration or Nursing Education.
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 15 months to complete, which is composed of 59-83 credits depending on the specialization. Fees for tuition are approximately $28,000.
Faculty
Nursing faculty of Stevens-Henager College 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.
Bachelor’s degree program is available to registered nurses only.
Accreditation
Stevens-Henager College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).
Address:
Stevens-Henager College
383 West Vine Street
Salt Lake City, UT 84123
Stenberg College
Stenberg College offers educational opportunities in the health and human services fields including nursing, medical assistant and early childhood care programs. Over 94% of Stenberg College graduates obtain employment within 6 months of graduating their program. Stenberg College offers a lifetime career assistance program to assist graduates in finding employment.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
Offers 1 post-diploma certificate program, and 3 vocational diploma/certification programs
Students can work one-on-one with the financial aid office to source funding for their education
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Online programs at Stenberg College are available in combined and fully online formats to meet student’s needs. Programs are focused on the Canadian healthcare system. The Advanced Leadership Certificate is offered online for already licensed nurses seeking advanced leadership opportunities. The practical and psychiatric nursing programs offer campus-based programs for nurses. The nursing unit clerk program allows students with a desire to perform clerical functions in the hospital setting to function as administrative assistants to nurses. Students who participate in nursing programs at Stenberg College are eligible for free ESL classes.
Online Certificates in Nursing
The Advanced Leadership Certificate offers Licensed Practical Nurses the opportunity to obtain training necessary to assume health care roles in the Canadian health care system. The course is 10 weeks long and tuition is $600. The course can be completed entirely online or in a combined format (on-campus and online).
The Practical Nurse Certificate program is 51 weeks including all courses and the required clinical practicum. Nurses in this course will learn how to administer medication, assess and monitor patients, educate patients regarding health care issues and assist in patient rehabilitation. The program tuition begins at $19,500.
The regional Psychiatric Nursing Certificate program is designed primarily for nurses in rural areas who normally would not have the ability and access to leave their area for further education. This course makes all theoretical courses available online and requires nurses to complete practicums in their local region of Canada. The course is currently scheduled to start in March 2012 in select areas. Please confirm that your program of interest is available in your area. The program is 101 weeks. The program tuition begins at $19,500.
Nursing Clerks fulfill basic administrative duties for nurses that could not normally be fulfilled by a nurse due to a busy schedule. Nursing Clerks positions are not for the light of heart, as the position is under frequent stress and frequently in the “eye of the storm”. The program also seeks to enhance personal skills and development to cope with such stressful situations. A Nursing Unit Clerk advisory committee meets regularly to ensure that the program courses are up to date. The program is 37 weeks. The program tuition begins at $12,700.
Faculty
Nursing faculty of Stenberg College have years of experience, are well-connected in their field, and stay abreast of current trends.
Things to consider:
Nursing programs are not accredited by a nursing body
Nursing programs may not be recognized in the United States
The majority of programs do not qualify for post-secondary credit
Tuition fees listed above are in Canadian currency
Additional fees may be required for international students
Accreditation
Stenberg College is accredited by the Private Career Training Institutions Agency of B.C (British Columbia, Canada).
Address:
Stenberg College
Suite 750 – 13450 102nd Avenue
Surrey, BC V3T 5X3
South University
Savannah based South University was founded in 1899 by Dr. John Draughon as Draughon’s Practical Business College. The University has now grown to offer courses in Nursing and Health, IT, Business, Legal, Criminal Justice, and Creative Arts in over five campus locations. South University was bought by Education Management Organization in 2003, and began offering online bachelor’s degree programs the next year.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
1 online bachelor’s and 2 online master’s degree programs
Campus based bachelor’s and master’s degree programs are available
Nurses in the bachelor’s program may receive up to 45 credits for their previous experience
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
South University’s nursing program prepares kind and caring individuals who have a desire to help others with the skills necessary to pursue nursing education.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
The online RN to BSN degree program focuses on training nurses to provide an advanced level of care to their patients and training in specific geographic areas in which the nurses will provide care, rural communities in particular. Students will take courses in Illness and Disease Management, Legal and Ethical Issues in Nursing, Transition into Professional Nursing for RNs and a capstone course that involves planning and delivering care in the student’s community.
Duration and Cost
Tuition for the program is $78,562, and the program may be completed in as little as 27 months.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
The RN to MSN program is an ideal option for registered nurses seeking to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree as the program awards both. The curriculum of the bachelor’s and master’s degree programs is combined and students can access coursework any time of day. Core coursework includes Advanced Nursing Practice, Nursing Research Methods and Financial Management for Nurses.
South University also offers a general master’s of science option for nurses who have already earned a bachelor’s degree. As with the RN to MSN program, all MSN programs at South University offer the Nurse Educator specialization. Teaching and Learning Strategies, Evaluation of Educational Outcomes in Nursing and 2 course practicums in Nursing Education are part of the specialization coursework.
Duration and Cost
The program tuition is $63,908 for both the MSN and RN to MSN programs. The RN to MSN program requires 213 hours total and the MSN concentration alone requires 48 hours, some of which may be transferred from previous experience or coursework. The MSN program may be completed in as little as 18 months. The RN to MSN program may require additional undergraduate fees to earn the BSN portion of the degree.
Faculty
Faculty at South University hold advanced degrees from select institutions, and include professors with doctoral degrees.
Things to consider:
Verify you meet specific and detailed academic requirements with your program of interest
Only one degree specialization is offered
Students may be required to complete one or more locally based practicums.
Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits online nursing programs at South University.
Address:
South University
709 Mall Blvd
Savannah, GA 31406
Salem International University
Salem International University was founded in 1888 as Salem College by the Seventh Day Baptist Church. As a private, for profit institution, Salem International University now offers associate through graduate level degrees in business, education, nursing, information technology and criminal justice. Salem International University makes every effort to offer flexible course schedules suited to the busy professional.
Alumni of the West Virginia based university have gone on to become national and international executives, professional athletes and a state governor. A variety of clubs and athletics are available to students on campus including cheerleading, photography, videography, ministry, thrill seeking, water polo, wrestling, music, and writing. Student government, activities and newspaper are also options in which students can be involved.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
1 online bachelor’s degree in nursing
Campus based certificate and associate’s degree programs
Federal financial aid is available, but only to those who qualify.
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
The School of Nursing at Salem International University strives to make nursing education available and accessible to all. Nursing programs are available from the diploma to bachelor’s degree level. Nursing programs at the diploma and associate’s degree levels are not offered online. Key beliefs at Salem International University School of Nursing include valuing the nursing profession at all levels of expertise and becoming a lifelong learner. Caring, integrity, diversity and excellence are core concepts of the nursing programs. Salem International University uses the popular internet-based Blackboard program for classes and coursework.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
The online RN to BSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing program) offers current registered nurses the opportunity to earn their degree online. Courses in the online bachelor’s degree program emphasize the following skills and competencies:
Critical, creative and reflective thinking
Lifelong learning
Evidence-based practice
Leadership and Management Strategies
Diverse client populations across the lifespan
Communication and Informatics
Health promotion, maintenance and restoration
Core Courses in the nursing program include Health Assessment, Nursing Research, Ethics, Complex Health Problems, Evidence-based Practice, Special Topics in Nursing, Community Nursing and Nursing Management and Leadership. Students submit a portfolio demonstrating comprehension of concepts learned in their course, rather than completing a practicum.
Nurses who complete the program can aspire to careers as a Clinical Nurse Specialist, Instructor, Registered Nurse, Acute Care Nurse, Advanced Practiced Psychiatric Nurse and Critical Care Nurse.
Duration and Cost
Estimated tuition is $12,700, and the course requires 120 credit hours, 60 of which are awarded upon acceptance into the program.
Things to consider:
Nurses who enroll in the program must be in good standing.
Students must maintain a 2.0 GPA in all courses to earn their degree; 2.5GPA is considered maintaining good academic standing.
Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing degree program is not accredited by a nursing body.
Accreditation
The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central of Association of Colleges and Schools accredits the RN to BSN Nursing program.
Address:
Salem International University
223 West Main Street
Salem, West Virginia 26426
Saint Joseph’s College of Maine
Saint Joseph’s College of Maine is a private, Catholic institution and a liberal arts college founded in 1912 by the Sisters of Mercy, an international group comprised of Catholic women dedicated to service. With just 3,000 students, the Standish, Maine based college has programs in liberal arts, education, nursing and business. The college also has a commitment to service learning.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
Comprehensive online course offerings including 1 online bachelor’s, 2 online master’s, and 3 certificate programs
Students may opt to take campus-based summer courses to accelerate their degree, though they are not required
Registered nurses with a diploma (who do not hold an associate’s degree) may apply for the BSN program
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Nursing programs at Saint Joseph’s College of Maine allow students to maintain a personalized approach to learning through offering several degree specializations and dual degree options for nursing students.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
The online Bachelor’s degree in nursing program is unique in that it is not restricted to nurses with an associate’s degree, nurses who hold a diploma may also participate in the program. Students may also take challenge examinations to earn credit for previous educational or work experience that has provided knowledge needed to earn their degree.
Duration and Cost
Tuition is $325 per credit. The bachelor’s degree requires a total of 128 credits, 32 of which must be earned from Saint Joseph’s College of Maine. Total cost of your program will depend on the credits needed after transfer, challenge exams, etc. The average undergraduate program cost is $28,000.
Online Master’s Degrees in Nursing
Students in the online master’s programs at Saint Joseph’s College of Maine can choose from three degree specializations and two dual degree options in Healthcare Administration and Business Administration. The three specializations that students can choose from are:
Family Nurse Practitioner- Nurses seeking to serve families in a clinical setting
Nurse Educator –Nurses seeking an educator or instructor position
Nurse Administrator- Nurses seeking an administrative or leadership role
All three specializations will prepare nurses to sit certifying exams in their respective specialization.
Registered nurses who have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree may also participate in the RN to MSN degree option.
Duration and Cost
Tuition ranges from $425 to $600 per credit depending on the specialization of the course. The Family Nurse Practitioner is $600 per credit, while all other specializations are $425 per credit. Courses require 42-60 credits depending on the specialization and degree(s) earned.
Online Certificates in Nursing
Saint Joseph’s College of Maine offers three online certificate options that nurses may earn post-degree.
The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Certificate offers the opportunity for nurses with a master’s degree to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to become a Family Nurse Practitioner and sit the qualifying exam. The 27 credit program requires 600 supervised clinical hours.
The online Certificate in Nursing & Health Care Education is designed for nurses who are a staff educator or who desire to increase their knowledge of the profession. This 18 credit course is not meant to certify instructors or prepare them for post-secondary instruction.
The 18 credit Certificate in Nursing Administration & Leadership is ideal for nurses who are new managers or desire to become managers.
Tuition for graduate courses is $425 per credit, with the exception of the $600 per credit FNP program.
Faculty
Faculty of Saint Joseph’s College of Maine all hold graduate level degree (master’s or higher), with several holding doctoral level degrees.
Things to consider:
Some programs may require students to complete a local residency
Each course has detailed admission requirements; verify you meet admissions requirements or speak with an advisor with the program before applying
Accreditation
Nursing programs at Saint Joseph’s College of Maine are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and approved by the Maine State Board of Nursing.
Address:
Saint Joseph’s College of Maine
278 Whites Bridge Road
Standish, Maine 04084
Sacred Heart University
Sacred Heart University was founded in 1963 as a way to provide an education for the local community in the Catholic tradition. Since then, the university has grown to 45 degree programs from associate’s to the doctoral level. The university has a demonstrated commitment to service with over 35,000 hours donated each year.
Campus-based certificate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral programs are offered
Students can skip a session if personal, family or work commitments become too demanding
A variety of nursing-specific scholarships are available
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Nursing programs at Sacred Heart University are based upon the four principles of community, spirituality, ethics and diversity. Because of the small student to faculty ratio, students are able to received individualized counseling from faculty members. The programs offer hands on practice through service learning partnerships and a simulation lab. Keeping in line with the university’s service learning tradition, students may participate in medical mission trips in places as distant as Jamaica and Guatemala.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
The online bachelor’s degree program is ideal for working nurses seeking to return to school. Sacred Heart University recommends preparing for at least ten to twelve hours of study per week; sessions are eight weeks long. Topics of the course include intercultural health and wellness, research, and leadership development.
Duration and Cost
Tuition is $500 per credit hour, and the number of credits required to complete the program vary depending on the amount of credits transferred in. The program requires 123 credits to earn a bachelor’s degree.
Online Master’s Degrees in Nursing
Sacred Heart University offers two options for registered nurses seeking to earn a Master’s Degree in Nursing online, an RN to MSN option and MSN option for nurses who already have their bachelor’s degree. The course offers the following three specializations:
Clinical Nurse Leader- Prepares nurses to sit the Clinical Nurse Leader exam through the American Association of Colleges of Nursing
Patient Care Services Administration- Prepares nurses for a role in leadership and administration
Nurse Education-Prepares nurses for a role in teaching and instruction
Core courses for the programs include Health Care Policy and Ethics, Theory and Professional Roles, and Principles of Health Care Research.
Duration and Cost
The course is $580 per credit hour and takes approximately 2 years to complete if one course is taken each session.
Online Certificate program in Nursing
The online Home Healthcare Management certificate program is designed for nurses in management positions in home health care agencies to meet the requirements of the State of Connecticut, Department of Public Health (DPH). Students may also use credits earned in this two-course certificate program towards the BSN program. Students are required to take six credits of coursework in the form of two courses—Leadership and Management and Management of Home Healthcare Agencies.
Faculty
Sacred Heart University has award-winning nursing faculty with years of clinical experience. Students have access to faculty through small class sizes, with a student to faculty ratio of 13:1.
Things to consider:
Nurses who take courses must carry malpractice insurance
6 start dates are offered per year
Accreditation
Sacred Heart University’s nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Address:
Sacred Heart University
5151 Park Avenue
Fairfield, Connecticut 06925-1000
Oklahoma Wesleyan University
Oklahoma Wesleyan University has been fully-accredited as a degree granting four-year institution since 1974. The college founded in 1959, was the result of the merger of three Wesleyan institutions and became Bartlesville Wesleyan College and moved to Bartlesville, Oklahoma in 1959. The school now offers a wide variety of degree programs from associate’s to doctoral level, both campus-based and online.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
1 online bachelor’s degree program in nursing and 1 master’s degree program in nursing.
In-state tuition is offered for the nursing program.
Students may obtain credit for life-based learning experiences.
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
The nursing programs at Oklahoma Wesleyan University seek to deepen each student’s understanding of the art and science that encompass the nursing profession. In this program, nurses will take an in depth study in the nursing field and develop the knowledge, character, practical and spiritual experience to build the nurse’s awareness of personal skills and development. Curriculum at Oklahoma Wesleyan University is biblically based and infused with Christian Wesleyan theology.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN)
The online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing Program is for nurses who desire to take the next step in their career and knowledge of the nursing profession. Nurses can continue to work full-time while completing the program online and courses are taken one subject at a time to allow complete focus on one course. Courses for the bachelor’s degree program include an introductory course in taking classes online, Computers in Nursing, Intercultural Nursing, Leadership and Management in Nursing and Nursing Research.
Duration and Cost
To earn a bachelor’s degree, students must earn 126 credits total, with 42 credits if core coursework. Tuition is $388 per credit, and the number of credits taken will depend on the number of credits transferred in. Tuition costs begin at approximately $25,600 with the minimum 60 credits transferred in.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing
Though it’s in the school of management and not nursing, the Master’s of Business Administration Degree in Nursing Management is ideal for nurses seeking leadership roles in health care institutions. This emerging approach in cross-disciplinary education is designed so that nurses may function in leadership in a variety of settings. Students in the master’s degree program will take courses in healthcare economics, quantitative analysis, and strategic marketing management with advanced nursing courses such as Healthcare Systems and Health Informatics and Evidence-Based Practice.
Duration and Cost
Tuition for the master’s program is $465 per credit hour and 36-38 credit hours for completion.
Faculty
Faculty at Oklahoma Wesleyan University have earned recognition from national media such as CNN, PBS and U.S. News and World Report.
Things to consider:
Common core courses from other programs including chemistry and statistics are not a part of this course.
Requirements for both programs are detailed; contact the school to ensure you meet and understand all requirements.
Attendance on campus may be required for the master’s degree program.
Accreditation
The nursing programs at Oklahoma Wesleyan University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Address:
Oklahoma Wesleyan University
2201 Silver Lake Road
Bartlesville, OK 74006
Benedictine University
Benedictine University seeks to provide quality liberal arts and professional education to a diverse body of students in their Roman Catholic tradition. Founded in the Benedictine heritage in 1887, the university was originally founded to educate Eastern European students mostly of Czech descent. Over 65 undergraduate and graduate programs are offered in the university’s five schools. Benedictine University is part of the Association of Benedictine Colleges and Universities.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
1 online master’s degree program
Campus-based RN to BSN completion program
Nursing-specific scholarships are available
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
The MSN program at Benedictine University is among the top ten in the nation according to some ranking organizations.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing
The online MSN degree program at Benedictine University seeks to train effective nurse leaders, educators and administrators. The program allows for some customization as students design their area of focus in their last 12 credits (4 courses) of their 36 credit program. Six areas of focus for the degree are available including:
Public Health
Health Education
Administration
Leadership, Management & Finance
Disaster Management
Health Policy
Students also have the option of creating their own customized area of focus. Core courses for all specializations are:
Transforming Nursing Roles: The Educator, Administrator and the Socially Sculptured Professional Nurse
Global Leadership: Foundations of Nursing and Health Care
Ethical and Culturally Competent Health Care Professional
Health Care Information Systems and Technology
The Teacher, Scholar, Administrator, Visionary Leader
Measuring Quality in Health and Education Systems
Management, Human Resources and Financial Planning in Health and Education Systems
The course uses the Angel online learning platform, which allows students to interact with students and faculty through discussion, obtain course assignments and ask questions of peers and faculty. Six academic sessions are offered per year so that students may quickly accelerate through their coursework. Most students take one course each session, for a total of six per year, though more courses may be taken dependent upon individual preferences.
Duration and Cost
The program can be completed in 16 to 14 months depending on the student’s course schedule and preferences, and requires 36 credits. Tuition is $510 to $750 per credit hour.
Faculty
At Benedictine University no courses are taught by graduate assistants. Faculty for the MSN program are credentialed and come from various areas of the nation.
Things to consider:
MSN Program has received initial accreditation only.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
A 125 hour clinical capstone experience is required.
Students must have a bachelor’s degree in nursing to be considered for the program.
Accreditation
Benedictine University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools Benedictine University’s Master of Science in Nursing program has received initial accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Address:
Benedictine University
5700 College Road
Lisle, IL 60532
Anna Maria College
Anna Maria College is a private, Catholic institution founded by the Sisters of Saint Anne in 1946. The College offers over 55 undergraduate and graduate programs for certificates through master’s level qualifications. Donned “the small college with a big heart” by a local newsman, the Massachusetts-based liberal arts institution has a variety of clubs, internships and study abroad opportunities for its students.
The college is a member of the Member of the 12-college Worcester Consortium; students can register for classes at other consortium colleges at no additional cost.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
1 online bachelors degree program
1 campus-based bachelors degree program
Scholarships and federal financial aid are available to qualifying students
No state-restrictions, nurses from all 50 states are accepted to online program
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Anna Maria College offers an online RN (Registered Nurse) to BSN (Bachelor’s of Science Degree) in nursing program to students.
Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Nursing
The online Registered Nurse to Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) Degree completion program is designed to take full advantage of career options available to nurses. Credits towards the degree can be earned for previous coursework, national certification, and work experience. In addition to non-major required courses in Catholic Social Teaching and Statistics, the degree requires the following course options:
Professional Nursing-explores issues professional issues in nursing including ethics and career planning
Physical Assessment and Health Promotion-uses Neuman Systems Model in completing comprehensive wellness assessments
Nursing Research-introductory nursing research course design to give nurses a basic understanding and grasp of the research process
Nursing Informatics-students explore technology-based health applications that explore clinical work
Pathopharmacology-develop understanding of pathophysiological and pharmacologic concepts as it relates to understanding major healthissues
Leadership & Management –explores leadership, management styles and models
Public Health Nursing-focuses on providing care to the community as a client in the context of critical thinking and caring
Senior Seminar I-students pursue an in-depth study of a specific nursing topic explored during the course under facultysupervision
Senior Seminar II-students develop a project based on the Neuman Systems Model to address a community need
Duration and Cost
Tuition for the course is $1, 812 for each semester (or per 3 credit course). A minimum of 120 credits are required to earn the bachelor’s degree qualification, up to 75 of which may be transferred. Individual completion times vary according to the amount of credits transferred into the program, though the course may normally be completed in 2.5 years.
Faculty
Small class sizes offer students at Anna Maria personalized attention and more frequent contact with Anna Maria College’s distinguished faculty with advanced qualifications.
Things to consider:
The program does not offer a clinical component to the degree.
Accreditation
The Bachelors of Science in Nursing Program is approved by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing and is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Address:
Anna Maria College
50 Sunset Lane
Paxton, Massachusetts 01612
University of Phoenix
University of Phoenix was founded in 1976 by Cambridge graduate Dr. John Sperling with the sole purpose of providing convenient class times and educational opportunity for working adults. Though their online campus didn’t open until 1989, years before students were required to type papers, they were far ahead of their competitors.
As the self-proclaimed largest private university with over 200 locations, the University of Phoenix is recognized by many as the cream-of-the-crop of online universities. University of Phoenix has a wide range of academic programs such as technology, psychology, and education offered through 7 colleges and 2 schools. Campuses are located in over 40 states including California, Alabama, Wyoming, Oklahoma, Ohio and the country of Puerto Rico.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degree
2 bachelor’s, 5 master’s, and continuing education courses.
Prerequisite is an associate’s degree in Nursing.
1 bachelor’s degree and 4 master’s degrees, and 1 doctoral degree are available to be completed completely online.
Scholarships available.
Campus-based Programs
Being such a large institution, the University of Phoenix claims to have campus locations within ten miles of over 85 million Americans. It is very likely that the University of Phoenix has an online campus near you. The LPN/LVN to BSN degree program is currently offered in Denver, Colorado; Honolulu, Hawaii; Modesto, California and Phoenix, Arizona. The LPN/LNV to BSN program at the University of Phoenix allows nurses who only hold a diploma to pursue a bachelor’s degree directly. The course includes clinical, hands-on training in simulation labs, women’s health, surgical, pediatric and psychological nursing.
Online Nursing Degrees
The College of Nursing at the University of Phoenix is newly separated from the College of Health and Human Services at the University of Phoenix. The new College of Nursing will make room for a host of new academic programs including a revised Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program, and new specialties in the graduate programs. Other initiatives the university seeks to implement including expanding geographically, offering new nurse practitioner programs, and establishing continuing education programs. Student outcomes for the undergraduate nursing programs at the University of Phoenix include Assessment, Communication and Critical Thinking. Graduate programs include the same outcomes with the addition of Clinical Decision Making.
Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Nursing
University of Phoenix’s online RN to Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing program caters to a working nurses’ busy schedule. This program is designed to enhance and further develop the nurse’s knowledge through providing a foundation in the physical sciences and liberal arts. The online program includes clinical practicums delivered through Pearson education.
Duration and Cost
The program ranges in cost from $25,350.00 – $63,800.00 and requires approximately 120 credits to complete, though less may be necessary if credits are transferred in.
Online Master’s Degrees in Nursing
The University of Phoenix offers a variety of nursing programs with varying specialties. The University also offers a bridge program allowing nurses with a bachelor’s degree in another field to pursue a master’s of science degree in nursing through taking a few bridge courses, which then allows them to pursue one of the programs of study below.
Master’s of Science in Nursing
The online MSN in Nursing degree prepares nurses holding a bachelor’s degree with the skills necessary to assume leadership in practice or educational settings. The classes focus on enhancing the nurse’s knowledge of their role while providing leadership training.
Duration and Cost
The program requires 39 credits and ranges in tuition from $19,285 to $50,000.
Master’s of Science in Nursing-Informatics
The MSN-Informatics specialization focuses on understanding the history of informatics, how to select and implement an information system, and how informatics shapes the healthcare practice.
Duration and Cost
The online master’s program with informatics specialization requires 39 credits and ranges in tuition from $19,285 to $50,000.
Master’s of Science/Master of Business Administration in Nursing- Health Care Management
A very unique dual-degree, the online MSN/MBA program provides nurses with advanced health care knowledge in addition to business management practice expertise.
Duration and Cost
The program requires 65 credits and ranges in tuition from $19,285 to $50,000.
Master’s of Science in Nursing- Nursing/Health Care Education
Providing a fundamental base for nurse educators, the Nursing/Health Care Education course focuses on the faculty role, curriculum, assessment, evaluation, and instructional strategies.
Duration and Cost
The program requires 39 credits and ranges in tuition from $20,765 to $34,130.
Online Certificates in Nursing
The University of Phoenix also offers continuing education programs for Nurse Educators, Nurse Practitioners and Nurse Managers. Not all courses are available in online or on-campus formats. Students have the option of using professional development courses to count towards credits in a degree program at the University of Phoenix. Students interested in professional development courses should check with the University of Phoenix website to find when classes are offered or speak with an enrollment advisor.
Things to Consider
The master’s degree specialization courses require a clinical practicum that may not be available in certain states
The LPN/LVN to BSN and RN to BSN, and Master’s courses require clinical practicums that students must choose.
Not all programs and courses are available in online/on-campus format. Students should speak with an enrollment adviser to find out if specific programs and courses are available in their area.
Doctoral program is not yet accredited by a nursing body.
Faculty
University of Phoenix’s nursing program faculty hold DNP/PhD degrees and Master’s level degrees in their field, and are required to have a minimum of five years experience, though quite a few have as many as 20+ years experience. Faculty members are authors, lecturers, and explore nursing in the context of other fields.
Accreditation
Bachelor’s and Master’s Nursing degree programs at the University of Phoenix are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Address:
University of Phoenix –Online Campus
3157 E. Elwood St.
Phoenix, AZ 85034
Kaplan University
Kaplan University, a subsidiary of The Washington Post, was founded in 1937 as American Institute of Commerce. Since then, the Kaplan University umbrella has branched into a full services educational group with supplemental review courses, learning centers, and academic review books in addition to onsite and online accredited degree granting programs.
The school has over 35,000 online alumni and over 200 academic programs in the Arts and Sciences, Medical and Law fields. The Iowa based university is at the forefront of the field of online education and strives to serve a primarily non-traditional student population. Kaplan University offers a variety of scholarships and provides special discounts to high achievers, active duty military and veterans.
Licensure valid for Florida, Certifications valid in select states including CA, FL, IA, MI
Courses in healthcare finance, leadership, diversity, informatics, and ethics and legal implications in nursing
Scholarships and Financial Aid Available
Accredited Nursing Program (See Accreditation)
Kaplan University’s online nursing programs offer a variety of options for those interested in the healthcare field, regardless of your availability and educational background.
Online Nursing Degrees
Online Associate’s Degrees in Nursing
Kaplan University’s associate’s degree is the basic qualification among the 5 degree options offered. The course can be completed entirely online, with the exception of the practicum. Because licensure varies by state and Kaplan University is based in Florida, students must complete a practicum in a local facility. The associate’s program is 110 units and costs approximately $40,000.
Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Nursing
The RN-BSN program (Registered Nurse to Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing Program) is ideal for registered nurses seeking to increase the opportunities available to them by obtaining further education. The course is offered completely online. Topics covered include leadership, research, community healthy, and diversity. Assuming you have previous credits from an associate’s degree or diploma, this course requires 91 credits and is just under $30,000.
Online Master’s Degrees in Nursing
Two master’s degree programs are offered online. In the traditional master’s program, the leadership emphasis is evident with courses such as health care finance, human resources, and organizational theory. Both courses can be completed entirely online, except for the practicum which can be completed with a local mentor of your choosing. Complete with a one-on-one practicum with a mentor and a required project proposal, you are sure to graduate with hands on experience and preparation for your future nursing career. The course ranges from 63-90 credits and $23,000 to $33,000 depending on if you choose to incorporate one of five certificate options (or specializations) into your program.
Students in the RN-MSN (Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing Program) can expect a fast-track from a diploma or non-nursing related degree to the master’s degree program. Students who choose this track will complete significantly less coursework than completing the bachelor’s and master’s courses separately. The emphasis is a mixture of the bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. Students can expect to complete about 90-95 and 40-43 undergraduate and graduate credits respectively depending on if they held a bachelor’s degree or nursing certificate prior to entering the program. Tuition ranges from $46-48,000.
Certificates and Specializations
Certificate programs are an ideal option for nurses with a bachelor’s or master’s degree seeking to enhance their career direction and focus. The following five programs are available:
Adult Nursing Practitioner Certificate-Treating adults with acute and chronic illness
Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate-Working with all individuals within a family context
Nurse Administrator Certificate-Preparing for a career in nursing management
Nurse Educator Certificate-Teaching or development staff training in schools and businesses
Nurse Informatics Certificate-Health-Managing health care data, literacy, and knowledge
Certificate programs can take as little as 7 months and 23 credit hours to complete and range from $9,000 to $20,000.
Faculty
Kaplan University’s nursing program faculty hold PhDs, EdDs and MSN’s in the field and come from a variety of programs including online and on-ground, and of course Kaplan University’s own program.
Things to consider:
The nursing certificates are valid only in select states; find the current states accepting certificates on the specific program’s page.
All rates quoted are for tuition. Additional fees and book costs may apply.
Ensure your program is accredited before you apply.
Accreditation
Associate of Science in Nursing-Florida Board of Nursing
Bachelor of Science in Nursing-Iowa Board of Nursing; Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Master of Science in Nursing*-Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
*Certifications: Nurse Educator, Nurse Administrator, and Informatics accredited with Master of Science program, Adult and Family Nurse Practitioner specializations are not accredited at this time.
Address:
Kaplan University, Pembroke Pines
10131 Pines Blvd, Suite B
Pembroke Pines, FL 33026
Herzing University
Wisconsin based Herzing University is celebrating its 46th year of operation. Herzing University prides itself in the individualized attention each student receives from faculty and staff alike. The commitment to personalized attention is seen in the university’s policy to personally assist students in applying for grants, scholarships, and programs for which they may qualify. Herzing University offers diploma, undergraduate and graduate level programs in technology, design, business, healthcare, and public safety.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
1 online bachelor’s and master’s degree program
University offers diploma, associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs
Classes are automatically scheduled for you
Students can repeat failed courses free of charge
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
The RN to BSN degree option allows nurses to complete their bachelor’s degree coursework while continuing employment as an RN. Examples of increased opportunities and roles available to RNs with a bachelor’s degree include consulting and research roles, specialist roles, education and administrative management.
Course Description
The course assists nurses in understanding local, national and global policy as it relates to health promotion and disease prevention from the individual to population level. Nurses in the online bachelor’s degree program learn to think critically, conceptually, and practically, using mathematical analysis and the scientific method. A bachelor’s degree in nursing provides access to entry level administrative opportunities in the nursing field. Students are also required to take one unit of personal development education (managing career, personal finances, etc).
Duration and Cost
The bachelor’s degree requires 3 to 3 ½ years to complete and according to the universities website, tuition fees range from $49,680 to $57,600 as of December 2012 (see the university site for current costs and tuition fees). Please note that the program length pertains to graduating in normal time.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing
Master’s students choose from two specializations in Nursing Education or Nursing Management. A difference between the bachelor’s and master’s nursing degree is that the master’s degree lays the groundwork for students to accelerate into advanced leadership roles, sometimes without having to earn experience, as leadership is a core part of the master’s course.
Course Description
The Nursing Educator concentration offers courses in teaching and learning strategies, technology and principles of nursing education, nurse educator roles, curriculum development and evaluation and culminates in a clinical practicum and a scholarly research project. Students in the Nursing Management concentration will complete courses in nursing manager and leadership roles, health care information management and health policy and management. The Nursing Management specialization also culminates in a practicum and scholarly research paper.
Duration and Cost
The master’s degree can be completed in as little as 1 year and tuition is approximately $22,500 as of December 2012 (please visit the university website for current tuition costs). This one year completion time pertains to graduating in normal time.
Faculty
All Herzing University faculty have been trained in delivering course material online, and have experience in the nursing field. All faculty for the master’s program hold doctoral degrees.
Things to consider:
Verify with the school that the program is available in your state
Nursing programs are not currently accredited by a nursing body
Accreditation
Herzing University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Herzing University is currently an applicant for Commission on College Nursing Education (CCNE) Accreditation.
*For more information about Herzing University graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the nursing program, and other important information, please visit the university’s website at, http://www.herzing.edu/student-data.html
Address:
Herzing University
Administrative Offices
W140 N8917 Lilly Road
Menomonee Falls, WI 53051
University of Arkansas Grantham
Since 1951, University of Arkansas Grantham has been providing affordable and flexible education options for students who would not otherwise be able to complete higher education, including first-generation college students and military personnel. University of Arkansas Grantham was founded by a WWII veteran who sought to level the playing field for students who sought college education but didn’t have the time or money to complete traditional degree programs. University of Arkansas Grantham now has over 38-degree programs that award associates to master’s degrees.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
1 online bachelor’s and 2 online master’s degree programs
100% online nursing degree programs all degrees are offered online and students are in no case required to attend campus or meet at specific times (classes are asynchronous)
Students complete the required master’s practicum in the form of a research paper
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
University of Arkansas Grantham’s online nursing programs focus on developing culturally competent nurses capable of critical thinking and providing top-notch quality care.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
Bachelor’s Degree Options
Registered nurses without a bachelor’s degree may opt into the RN to BSN program to accelerate their career options. Common occupations that the BSN can lead to include lecturer posts, mid-wife positions, and leadership roles in nursing. In this era of increased competitiveness among job applicants, nurses with a 4-year degree will increase their skills, knowledge base, and opportunity for advanced career options.
Course and Curriculum Description
The bachelor’s degree in nursing program is developed according to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s (AACN), Essentials of Baccalaureate Education for Professional Nursing Practice publication. Course curriculum includes health management, case management, theories and research in nursing, and transition to professional nursing.
Duration and Cost
The RN to BSN program is 48 months. Tuition and fees for the program are a total of $32,860.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing
Master’s Degree Options
Registered nurses without a bachelor’s degree may opt into the RN to MSN program to receive their master’s degree at an accelerated rate. Nurses already in possession of a bachelor’s degree may enter the general master’s program. In either case, students choose from four-degree specializations.
Course and Curriculum Description
Students in the online RN to MSN Bridge program take 21 credits of undergraduate coursework (similar to the BSN program) in addition to courses in student success and business management. Depending on the specialization, nurses will take courses in:
Clinical and administrative systems and case management and evidence-based practice (Case Management).
Curriculum development and organizational dynamics of higher education (Nursing Education).
Project and change management and information, security and privacy in healthcare (Nursing Informatics).
Human resources management and strategic management and planning (Nursing Management and Organizational Leadership).
All nurses will take courses in foundations of advanced nursing and legal and ethical issues of nursing.
Program Details
The Master’s of Science in nursing offers four specializations common among online master’s in nursing programs. The four specializations are Case Management, Nursing Education, Nursing Informatics, and Nursing Management and Organizational Leadership.
Duration and Cost
Master’s degrees are 24 months. The MSN and RN-MSN tuition and fees for the two-year program ranges from $12,190 – $19,135.
Faculty
All University of Arkansas Grantham nursing faculty hold advanced degrees and approximately half hold doctoral degrees.
Things to consider:
Students in the RN-MSN program do not earn a BSN in the course of completing undergraduate coursework.
Students in the RN to MSN program must maintain a 3.0 GPA in a nursing coursework.
Accreditation
University of Arkansas Grantham is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), two of the premier nursing accrediting organizations for its College of Nursing programs.
Address: University of Arkansas Grantham 2404 N. University Ave Little Rock AR 72207
The College of St. Scholastica
The College of St. Scholastica was founded in 1912 by a group of Benedictine Sisters, in the Catholic Benedictine tradition. The college was founded to provide education to a small group of young women, and has now served over 14,000 students. The only independent private college in northeastern Minnesota, The College of St. Scholastica has been recognized by both
The Washington Post and U.S News and World Report for being among the best institutions. Students can choose from six schools to pursue their education, School of Arts and Letters, School of Business and Technology, School of Education, School of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, and School of Sciences. The College of St. Scholastica is so confident in its academic programs that it guarantees students who follow simple guidelines will graduate in four years or study subsequent years for free.
Overview of Programs, Certificates and Degrees
1 online bachelor of science in nursing degree program, additional healthcare related programs
Campus-based baccalaureate through doctoral programs offered with flexible scheduling
Awards financial aid to over 98% of qualifying students
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
The nursing program at The College of St. Scholastica embraces the values of community, hospitality, respect, stewardship and love of learning, all of which are steeped in their Benedictine tradition. The program is shaped by the Benedictine heritage, and focuses on nursing as a holistic profession, in which compassion and care of the healthcare provider are equally important with skill. The program focuses on nursing as providing care to the whole person-the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual welfare of persons. Though only one online degree program is offered, additional programs offer flexible scheduling including late afternoon, evening and weekend classes.
Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Nursing
The online Registered Nurse to Bachelors of Science degree program (RN to BS) is offered to registered nurses with either a diploma or associate’s degree. Students pursuing the RN to BS program will be fulfilling the increasing demand for nurses with higher educational qualifications through the convenience of a program delivered completely online. Courses in the program include:
Leadership in Nursing
Holistic Assessment in Nursing
RN/BS Nursing Portfolio
Basic Statistics for Professional Nursing Practice
Duration and Cost
The course requires 128 credits for the degree, some of which may be transferred from previous documented study or through challenge exams. Course tuition is $395 per credit, and does not include books or other required fees.
Faculty Previous students have noted the caring attitude of their professors at The College of St. Scholastica as a contributing factor to their success.
Things to consider:
Nurses must have three to six months experience as a registered nurse
Nurses who enter the program must hold state licensure and be eligible for licensure in Minnesota
Students will earn a BS and not a BSN degree
Accreditation
The baccalaureate nursing program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The College of St. Scholastica is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association.
Address:
The College of St. Scholastica
1200 Kenwood Avenue
Duluth, MN 55811
Saint Xavier University
Chicago-based Saint Xavier University was founded in 1847 by the Sisters of Mercy in honor of their leader, Mother Francis Xavier Ward. Saint Xavier University claims several firsts including being the oldest Mercy higher education institution in the world and the oldest Catholic higher education institution in Chicago.
Over 4,000 undergraduate and graduate students are enrolled in Saint Xavier University in their five colleges and schools, which are the College of Arts and Sciences, School of Education, Graham School of Management, School of Nursing and School of Continuing and Professional Studies.
Overview of Programs, Certificates and Degrees
Offers 2 online masters degree and 1 certificate program
Campus-based undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs are offered
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Saint Xavier University values focusing on underserved populations and remedying health disparities in the field. In 2010, the nursing school was renamed as a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing (NLN) re-designated the School of Nursing.
Online Master’s Degrees in Nursing
Saint Xavier University offers a Master in Nursing Executive Leadership and Clinical Leadership. The Executive Leadership programs trains nurses to work exclusively in an administrative role, managing a unit or department. Training focuses on the following areas of specialization:
Assessment and implementation of quality and safety measurements
Understanding systems of communication with colleagues and patients
Budgeting
Project Management
Strategic Planning
The Master’s in Nursing Clinical Leadership program is for nurses who desire to work with patients while holding leadership duties. Areas of specialization in the course include:
Interpreting aggregate data
Assessing Microsystems
Collaborating with members of other disciplines
Appraising evidence
Designing and implementing projects to improve patient care
Duration and Cost
Both master’s programs are 38 credits. Tuition is $790 per credit.
Online Certificates in Nursing
The online Nurse Educator Certificate program at Saint Xavier University trains aspiring Nurse Educators both in theory and through practical opportunities in the classroom. Not only do students study teaching methods, but also how to adapt programs to a specific setting whether nursing schools, hospitals or health courses for the public. The program is for nurses who hold or are in the process of obtaining a master’s degree in nursing. The program can be completed in conjunction with the master’s program at Saint Xavier University. Specific areas of training in the certificate program as outlined by Saint Xavier University include:
Educational theory for adult learners
Curriculum design
How to create course objectives
Lesson Planning
Student evaluation techniques
Curriculum evaluation
Duration and Cost
Tuition for the online nursing certificate program is $790 per credit. The program is 9 credit hours and can be completed in less than one year.
Faculty
Over 80% of faculty at Saint Xavier University hold a terminal degree in their field. The majority of nursing faculty hold or in the process of earning a PhD.
Things to consider:
The master’s program requires a 3 day-on campus session.
Students are required to complete a clinical practicum applying concepts from the master’s degree.
Accreditation
Saint Xavier University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The online nursing master’s degree and certificate programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Address:
Saint Xavier University
3700 West 103rd Street
Chicago, IL 60655
Rasmussen College
Rasmussen College offers degree programs in Nursing, Education, Business, Health Sciences, Justice Studies, and Technology and Design in over 20 campus locations in the states of Minnesota, Illinois, North Dakota, Wisconsin and Florida and a distance-based location. Rasmussen College was founded in St. Paul Minnesota in 1900 to bring a practical, career-oriented education options to the local population.
Walter Rasmussen founded the school to meet the demands of an overgrown business class to train secretaries and accountants. Originally founded as Rasmussen Practical Institute, the fundamental goals and mission of Rasmussen College remain the same to train and prepare students for work in all areas of business and obtain a respectable livelihood.
Overview of Programs, Certificates and Degrees
Offers 1 online bachelor degree completion program
Campus based certificate through bachelors degree nursing programs are offered in several states
Online degree programs in related health care fields are available
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Though Rasmussen College currently offers only 1 online degree option in nursing at the moment, there are several other online certification and degree opportunities in related fields including health sciences and medical administration. Campus-based nursing programs included a Professional Nursing Associate’s Degree program and Practical Nursing Associate’s and Diploma Nursing programs.
Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Nursing
Rasmussen College offers 1 online degree completion program, a Registered Nurse to Bachelors of Science degree in Nursing program. The program is specifically for currently registered nurses holding an associate’s degree or diploma. The college also offers a campus-based associate’s degree program to become a registered nurse. Designed to train nursing leaders, the program provides training in clinical and management scenarios. Courses electives for the program include:
Nursing Informatics-basic understanding of various information system applications within the health care system.
Quality and Safety in Nursing-examines safety and quality issues in healthcare
Introduction to Alternative and Complementary Therapies-explores alternative and contemporary theories in health, evidence-based healthcare and safety issues
Other required core courses of the program include the following:
Health Assessment
Applied Pathophysiology
Transcultural Nursing
Dimensions of Professional Nursing
Nursing Research
Public Health and Community Nursing
Leadership and Management in Nursing
Elements of the program include real-world case studies, projects, and critical-thinking discussions. Students can transfer credits from multiple schools and transfer policies seek to minimize degree completion time as much as possible.
Duration and Cost
A total of 181 quarter credits are required for completion of the degree program. Courses cost $310 to $395 per credit and may vary based on location of the program.
Faculty
Rasmussen College employs dedicated faculty with real-world industry experience.
Things to consider:
Program does not include a clinical component.
Online nursing program is not accredited by a nursing body.
Students from certain states are not eligible to enroll, check with the program for more information.
Accreditation
Rasmussen College is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
Address:
Rasmussen College
130 Saint Andrews Drive
Mankato, MN 56001
Philadelphia University
Philadelphia University offers undergraduate and graduate programs in over 40 areas of study. The curriculum offers an education in the liberal arts within a career-development framework. The over 3,000 pupils studying at Philadelphia University represent over 30 states and 30 countries.
Students choose from over 60 areas of studies in three colleges, College of Architecture and the Built Environment; the College of Design, Engineering and Commerce; and the College of Science, Health and the Liberal Arts. The university, which began as a technical college in 1884 has gone through many changes, including a merger and separation with the Philadelphia Museum and now has a satellite campus in the Bucks County area of Pennsylvania.
Overview of Programs, Certificates and Degrees
Offers 1 online master degree and 1 certificate program
Offers campus-based health related degrees including health sciences and occupational therapy
Graduate assistant-ship available
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Though a distance-education program, the Midwifery institute encourages hands on participation, and strives to give nurses as much quality hands on education and experience in addition to theoretical knowledge, which is developed through online courses.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing
Though online, the online Master’s Degree in Nursing Midwifery at Philadelphia University offers a community-based approach to learning, including monthly real-time tutorials and intensive, campus-based learning experiences. Traditionally midwives are trained health professionals that assist women in the birthing process, and today focus not only on women’s health, but also women’s health and pre and post partum care in general. The program is for Registered Nurses (RNs) with bachelor’s degrees seeking to become midwives. Graduates of the program may sit the exam to earn the CNM (Certified Nurse Midwife) or CM (Certified Midwife) credential awarded by the American Midwifery Certification Board. Courses in the program include:
Healthcare of Women
Antepartum, Intrapartum and Postpartum Care
Embryology and Genetics
Advanced Pharmacology
Health Policy
Introduction to Clinical Administration
Duration and Cost
Program duration is 2 years of full-time study or 3 years of part-time study. Tuition is $737 per credit hour. The program is a total of 65 credits with thesis.
Online Certificates in Nursing
For nurses who already hold a masters degree in nursing, an online Post-Master’s Certificate in Midwifery is offered for educational advancement. The course includes the same courses as the master’s degree program, with the exception of the following:
Introduction to Health Policy
Critical Inquiry I
Critical Inquiry 2
Master’s degree program elective
A degree-completion program is also offered to current midwives who seek to update their skills and educational knowledge.
Duration and Cost
Tuition is $737 per credit hour, and the program can be completed in approximately 2 years. The completion program can be completed in just three to four terms. The program is between 50-55 credits.
Faculty
Faculty at Philadelphia University are some of the best and most experience nurse-midwifery educators in the country.
Things to consider:
Campus-based, intensive study sessions are occasionally required.
Master’s program is full-time or part-time
Students wishing to earn a bachelor’s degree in addition to the master’s have the option of attending a campus-based program
Programs are not accredited by a nursing body
Accreditation
Philadelphia University is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. The program is accredited by the American College of Nurse-Midwives.
Address:
Philadelphia University
4201 Henry Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19144-5497
Gannon University
Gannon University is a private, Catholic institution awarding associate’s through doctoral degrees and certificates. Based in Pennsylvania, the university was founded as Cathedral College in 1925 by Archbishop John Mark Gannon. Now home to over 3,000 full and part-time students, the university offers programs of study in Humanities, Business, Education, Social and Health Sciences. Gannon University has a host of extracurricular opportunities available to students including study abroad programs.
Overview of Programs, Certificates and Degrees
Offers 1 online bachelor and 1 online certificate program.
Campus based bachelors and masters of science degree programs.
Programs delivered on campus offer flexible scheduling including evening and weekend classes, and a part-time study option.
100% career placement rate for nursing graduates.
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
There are many reasons to attend Gannon University’s online and campus-based degree programs. Nursing programs at Gannon University utilize a community-oriented curriculum, which takes a holistic approach to providing care to individuals, their families and communities. The university works with Partnership in Nursing Education (PNE) to allow students to participate in ROTC to gain training for army nursing.
Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Nursing
Gannon University believes that professional nursing begins at the baccalaureate level. Students who pursue Gannon University’s online RN to BSN program will not duplicate previous education or re-take classes, as the school of nursing operates in agreement with the Pennsylvania Nursing Articulation Model, which allows nurses to gain articulation for credit for areas of previous education.
Areas of study in the degree program include:
Transitions to Professional Nursing
Research in Nursing
Promoting Healthy Communities Management and leadership in nursing
Other nursing electives
Duration and Cost
A total of 128 credits are required for the BSN degree. Students can earn credit from previous work and challenge exams. As a result, students may begin their studies at Gannon University with up to 41% of their degree already complete. Tuition for each year is approximately $24,980.
Online Certificates in Nursing
The Certificate in School Nursing may be completed online, and is offered to nurses currently holding or enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program. The program is offered in conjunction with the school of education. Courses for the program include:
– Foundations of American Education and lab
– Minority Groups
– School Nursing
Duration and Cost
The program is 11 credits. Tuition is $630 to $810 per credit for part-time students.
Faculty
Gannon University’s nursing faculty are committed to providing student centered education. The small student to faculty ratio at Gannon University allows students to gain close mentoring and supervision from faculty.
Things to consider:
Students in the RN to BSN program must be licensed nurses with an associate’s degree.
Students must be licensed in Pennsylvania to receive school nursing certificate.
Accreditation
Gannon University’s nursing programs are approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Address:
Gannon University
109 University Square
Erie, Pennsylvania 16541-0001
Frontier Nursing University
Frontier Nursing University was founded in 1939 to meet a need for a US based training option for nurses desiring to become midwives, as previously nurses traveled across the Atlantic to Great Britain for education. Students have the option of obtaining the following qualifications ultimately leading to a masters or doctoral degree: Midwife (CNM), Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), or Women’s Health Care Nurse Practitioner (WHCNP).
Overview of Programs, Certificates and Degrees
Online master’s and doctoral degrees and post-master certificates
All courses are delivered online, though two campus visits are required
Federal financial aid is available
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Frontier Nursing University offers comprehensive online degree options for nurses seeking to study online. Though courses may not meet face-to-face, Frontier Nursing University strives to build learning community among its students and faculty members. Students are also encouraged to engage their home community in which they practice. In person interactions, in forums, on the phone and in e-mails are a few of the ways that students are expected to communicate with their peers and professors. Nursing programs at Frontier Nursing University have four components.
First, students complete a four-day orientation on campus in Hyden, Kentucky meant to build camaraderie among students and faculty and prepare for the learning modules ahead. Students then spend 4-8 terms (each term is twelve weeks) on coursework. Before students began practice in their new field of study, intensive clinical training and a clinical practicum are required. Students complete an eight-day hands-on training in Kentucky, followed by a 10 month clinical in the students’ community supervised by a regional coordinator at Frontier Nursing University.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing
Students pursuing on an online Masters Degree in Nursing may choose from 3 specializations, and a bridge-completion program:
Nurse-Midwifery
Family Nurse Practitioner
Women’s Health Care Nurse Practitioner
ADN to MSN (Associate Degree Nurses to Master of Science in Nursing)-comparable to RN to BSN programs
FNU also allows nurses to complete multiple specialty tracks while pursuing their course of study.
Duration and Cost
Programs can be completed in as little as two years or longer, depending on if students pursue full or part-time study. Programs are 41 to 77 credits and required. Tuition is $450 to $490 per credit for full and part time students respectively.
Online Doctoral Degree in Nursing
The online Doctor of Nursing Practice program has a practical focus of implementing and managing delivery of care specifically to rural and underserved communities. Students will analyze complex nursing situations, evaluate and apply nursing models, and demonstrate knowledge as a clinical educator.
Duration and Cost
The doctoral degree program is 33 credits total. Tuition is $505 per credit.
Online Certificates in Nursing
The online Nurse-Midwifery, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Women’s Health Care Nurse Practitioner programs may be completed as a post-master’s degree option. Tuition is $450 to $490 per credit for full and part time students respectively.
Online Course in Nursing
Non-degree seeking students may pursue courses in Frontier Nursing University’s course catalog through approval. Students interested in non-degree courses should contact the university for more information.
Things to consider:
Two on campus sessions are required, a clinical skills training program and orientation, though all coursework is delivered online.
Accreditation
Frontier Nursing University (FNU) is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The nurse-midwifery post-masters certificate program and master’s program are accredited by the ACNM Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME). The Doctor of Nursing Practice, the Master of Science in Nursing program and the post-master’s certificates are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Address:
Frontier Nursing University
195 School St
Hyden, KY 41749
Colorado Technical University
Colorado Springs-based Colorado Technical University focuses on giving students greater control of their education through their technologically advanced campuses, flexible degree options and student support system. The university offers associate’s through doctoral level degrees in the fields of Business, Health Sciences, Criminal Justice, Engineering, Computer Science, Technology and Interdepartmental Programs.
The online learning system offers multiple methods of delivery to learn materials in a way that most suits students’ individual learning styles and needs. Colorado Technical University strives to provide real-world and career oriented education with a focus of helping students advance and meet their personal career goals.
Overview of Programs, Certificates and Degrees
Offers 1 online bachelor’s degree program, and two additional online programs in the health care field
Campus-based associates and bachelors degree options are also available
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
The MSN program at Colorado Technical University is among the top ten in the nation according to some college ranking publishers.
Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Nursing
Students who complete the online Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science (RN to BSN) degree program have increased career options such as Public health nursing, School Nursing, Quality Improvement, Parish Nursing, Risk Management and Occupational Health Nursing. Nurses who pursue the online RN to BSN program will have increased career options that nurses holding only an associate’s degree or diploma may not have. The program seeks to instill critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and analytical skills to prepare nurses to operate in a broader scope in the nursing practice. Core courses in the program include:
Challenges and Trends in Contemporary Nursing
Nursing Informatics
Population-Based Nursing
Alternative and Complementary Interventions
Safety and Quality Improvement in Nursing Practice
Evidence Based Practice and Applied Nursing Research
Leadership and Nursing Systems Management
Innovation in Nursing
In lieu of a clinical component, students will complete a self-study project under the guidance of a faculty mentor, which may explore clinical, leadership or population-focused tasks.
Duration and Cost
Online Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Health Sciences
Though Colorado Technical University does not offer graduate degrees in nursing, several programs are offered, which are both reasonable and feasible programs for nurses seeking a graduate education. The Associate of Science degree in Health Administration Services provides a 2-year degree option for nurses the option of gaining increased understanding of the health care field through studying ethical and legal aspects of the healthcare practice and the components and purpose of healthcare records. The bachelor’s degree option prepares students to take an administrative leadership role in a healthcare organization. Upon successful completion of the program, students may pursue opportunities in consulting, pharmaceutical companies and managed care organizations.
Faculty
Faculty at Colorado Technical University are committed to student success.
Things to consider:
Program is not accredited by a nursing body
No clinical component
Accreditation
Colorado Technical University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Address:
Colorado Technical University
4435 North Chestnut Street, Suite E
Colorado Springs, CO 80907
Brandman University
Brandman University offers over 50 certificate and degree programs catered towards working professionals and adults in the military. In operation since 1958, Brandman University is part of the Chapman University family and was founded to provide a feasible higher education alternative for adults in the military. The Chapman network includes over 20 other colleges based in California and Washington. The university offers programs in the fields of Nursing, Education, Business and Professional Studies.
Overview of Programs, Certificates and Degrees
Offers online bachelors through doctoral and post-doctoral certificate programs
All nursing courses are delivered online with required campus-based “immersion” courses
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Brandman University offers comprehensive nursing study options for healthcare professionals at various stages. All nursing programs at Brandman University operate on the same method, which includes a blend of immersion, online courses and community-based clinical experience. Students are required to attend several 4-day immersions twice during their program, participate in online courses, and a clinical experience delivered in their community. Immersion courses are designed to offer hands-on clinical training and an opportunity for face-to-face interaction with other students.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
Registered nurses seeking a bachelor’s degree may enroll in the online RN to BSN degree program. Courses in the program include:
Managing Health Care Reform
Nursing’s Public Image and Professional Issues
Evidence-based Thinking for Scholarship and Practice
Health Care Communication and Collaboration
Duration and Cost
Program tuition is approximately $16, 920 and is 36 credits. The program can be completed in one year on a full time basis.
Online Doctoral Degrees in Nursing
Students in the online Doctor of Nursing Practice program have the option of pursuing a doctoral degree immediately following earning a BSN qualification. Areas of specialization for the program include Adult-Geriatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Geriatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner , Family Psych. and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Acute Care.
Duration and Cost
The BSN to DNP program is 73 credits and may be completed in 2 to 3 years on a full or part time basis. Tuition is approximately $65,700. Students who choose the Post-master’s program must completely approximately 33 credits and can be completed in approximately 1.5 years part time. The program tuition is approximately $29,700.
Online Certificates in Nursing
The following post-doctoral certificates are available to nurses holding a doctoral degree:
Post Doctoral Certificate, Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (NP), Post Doctoral Certificate, Adult-Geriatric Acute Care NP, Post Doctoral Certificate, Family Psych. And Mental Health NP, Post Doctoral Certificate, Geriatric Primary Care NP, Post Doctoral Certificate, Neonatal NP and Post Doctoral Certificate, Pediatric NP, Acute Care.
Duration and Cost
Graduate certificates are approximately $6,840 per program and require approximately 15 credits to complete.
Things to consider:
Students are required to complete several 4-day immersion courses based in Irvine, California
A clinical practicum in the student’s home community is a part of the program
2 year DNP completion option is only available when a minimum of 8 students are enrolled in the program
Programs are not currently accredited by a nursing body, but in the process
Accreditation
Brandman University programs are currently not approved by a nursing body, but are seeking accreditation. Brandman University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
Address:
Brandman University
16355 Laguna Canyon Road
Irvine CA 92618
Indiana State University
What would become Indiana State University was founded as Indiana Normal State School in 1865. The college is rich in history and tradition and ranked by The Princeton Review as one of the best colleges in the Midwest. Originally a teacher’s college, Indiana State University now offers more than 100 majors in 5 colleges from the baccalaureate to doctoral level.
Overview of Programs, Certificates and Degrees
1 online certificate, 2 bachelor’s, 3 master’s and 1 doctoral degree program
For certain degrees, students can take challenge exams or receive credit for work experience
Students complete clinical practicums in their local area
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Indiana State University is one of few institutions to offer online nursing degrees at every level.
Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Nursing
Indiana State University offers to online bachelor’s degrees in nursing. While most institutions only offer an option for RN to BSN, Indiana State University offers separate RN to BSN and LVN/LPN to BSN programs. In either case, students complete the entire degree online. A unique feature of the programs allows students to take “challenge exams” in which students are given credit for passing tests in a given subject in lieu of taking the course. This is valuable for nurses who have acquired knowledge and skills on the job, and may not need certain classes.
The degree program consists of 35-81 credits depending on the program and how many credits are transferred in. Tuition fees range from 3,891-4,522 per semester depending on the number of credits taken. Students enrolled less than full time pay $282 per credit.
Online Master’s Degrees in Nursing
The online master’s degrees at Indiana State University offer three specializations: Nursing Administrator, Nursing Educator, and Family Nurse Practitioner, the last of which is the basis for the doctoral programs. All master’s students take core courses in health care perspectives and nursing theory development, along with two research based courses.
The master’s degree programs can be completed 2 ½ years on a full-time basis or in 3-5 years part time. Programs are 32-51 credits and cost $353 per credit.
Online Doctoral Degree in Nursing
The online Doctor of Nursing Practice doctorate is built upon the foundation of the Master’s in Nursing-Family Nurse Practitioner program. Unlike many research based and scholarly online doctoral nursing programs, the online nursing doctoral program offers an emphasis in practice. Recent master’s graduates are trained to put their learning in the Family Nurse Practitioner course, while receiving advanced training and leadership skills. The program’s curriculum is based upon DNP curriculum as approved by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing.
Students will complete 39-85 credits of coursework dependent upon where the degree was earned (Indiana State or another institution). Graduate fees are $353 per credit hour.
Online Certificate’s in Nursing
The 14 credit Nursing educator program is for a nurse with a master’s degree who would like to add an educator qualification. Nurse educators are trained in delivering health care knowledge to staff, patients, and families as well as teaching in higher education institutions. The tuition for the program is approximately $5,000.
Faculty
Almost all graduate faculty in Indiana State University’s program hold doctoral degrees.
Things to consider:
Program is coordinated in collaboration with The College Network
Only tuition fees are listed above. Additional fees for clinical and distance learning
Students entering the doctoral program, must have earned a master’s degree
Accreditation
Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The nursing program is approved by the Indiana State Board of Nursing and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc..
Address:
Indiana State University
200 North Seventh Street
Terre Haute, Indiana 47809-1902
Norwich University
Founded in 1919, New England based Norwich University seeks to offer a professional, liberal arts education to its students. The university is home to residential and commuter students alike. Norwich University is the birthplace of the ROTC and claims the title of the first private military academy, first private university to offer engineering instruction and one of the first institutions to accept women.
The university now offers undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs in education, business, teaching and learning and organizational leadership. Several government focused programs include a defense program for current military, military history and certificate in governmental operations programs.
Overview of Programs, Certificates and Degrees
1 online master’s degree in nursing is offered.
A week long residency is required each June in the culmination of the program.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing
The online Master’s Degree in Nursing (MSN) offers two specializations in Nursing Administration or Nursing Education. Classes have no more than 16 students to ensure students receive individualized experience. The program serves to provide a hands-on, internship degree and is less research oriented then some programs, as no internship is required. Course completion is completely online and asynchronous, meaning students can complete work and requirements for the degree ay their own pace and on their own time schedule.
– Nurse Administrator
The Nurse Administrator concentration focuses on developing nurses who can assess, identify, and apply theoretical knowledge and evidence based practice to improve nursing and healthcare outcomes in a variety of settings
– Nurse Educator Concentration
The Nurse Educator Concentration focuses on developing a skilled leader and communicator in the field of education who holds management role within an educational facility and can inform policy through communicating with stakeholders.
Learning outcomes and goals for the nursing program include stronger leadership skills and business aptitude, combining patient care and management goals, identifying and implementing strategies to improve outcomes and provide best practice, and shaping health care policy and the nursing profession.
Duration and Cost
The master’s program can be completed in as little as 18 months and up to 24 months depending on personal schedule and needs. The program encourages students to contact an enrollment adviser to discuss the cost of their program, and tuition is approximately $25,000.
Faculty
Faculty bring professional experience and activities and research into the classroom to provide a comprehensive learning experience to students.
Things to consider:
Admission requirements include a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing (BSN), an active and unencumbered license as a registered nurse, and a minimum of one year experience as a registered nurse.
Tuition fees above do not include additional cost such as academic fees and books.
Accreditation
The online master’s program at Norwich University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and and is approved by the Vermont State Board of Nursing.
Norwich University is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.
Address:
Norwich University
School of Graduate and Continuing Studies
158 Harmon Drive
Northfield, Vermont 05663-0367
Northeastern University
Founded over 100 years ago by directors of the YMCA, Northeastern University is now the largest private higher education institution in Boston. With eight colleges (arts, business, computer, engineering, health, professional studies, science and social sciences and humanities) and a School of Law, Northeastern has grown from its humble beginnings as a parochial school, “Evening Institute for Young Men.”
Northeastern University strives to provide experiential global opportunities and is known for its co-op program and focus on providing hands on experience and opportunities for its student in research, study abroad, service learning and co-op placements.
Overview of Programs, Certificates and Degrees
1 online bachelor’s degree program is offered.
A comprehensive program of undergraduate to graduate level and certificate programs are offered through the School of Nursing on the main campus.
Courses can be completed part-time or full-time (up to 7 years).
Online Nursing Degrees Review
The online RN to BSN program is offered through Northeastern University’s college of professional studies. The Bouvé College of Health Sciences at Northeastern University is a premier facility and resource for students studying at the university. Faculty from all over the world are hired to offer a broad and varied perspective in academic programs. The College of Professional Studies which houses the online nursing programs offers 67 degree programs online. Eleven percent of students are international and the college strives to provide a global education to all students in their field of study.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
The online bachelor’s degree in nursing focuses on health promotion and illness prevention in a community and health maintenance setting. Other topics that the course explores include bioethics, intercultural communication, and providing care to vulnerable populations. Benefits of completing a bachelor’s degree include increased career opportunities over nurses holding a diploma. A bachelor’s degree offer develops critical thinkers, leaders and skilled communicators in the nursing field. Advanced clinical and research experience are also advantages of earning a four year degree.
Course Description
Core courses in the nursing program include:
Professional Transitions in Nursing
Health Assessment across the Lifespan
Introduction to Nursing Research
Care-giving: Nurses with Vulnerable populations
Managing and Leading in Healthcare
Innovations in Nursing practice (capstone course)
Duration and Cost
The online program can be completed in 4 years (full-time) and 7 years (part-time). Estimated tuition for the program is $52,000.
Faculty
Faculty at Northeastern University have industry experience in their field and most are certified to teach online. Half of online faculty are published authors, and have garnered over 5 million dollars in research grants.
Things to consider:
Academic requirements for admission include Health Clearance, CPR Certification, Associate’s degree and a current RN license.
A minimum of 65 credits must be earned at Northeastern University.
Four opportunities to began the program each year.
Accreditation
Northeastern University’s online RN to BSN nursing program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Address:
Northeastern University
360 Huntington Ave.
Boston, Massachusetts 02115
National American University
National American University began in 1941 as the National School of Business to provide specialized business training. Since then, the South Dakota-based university has grown to 11 states and offers programs in the education, healthcare, and legal fields. National American University aims to provide a relevant, real-world education in all academic fields, which is why faculty have real-world experience in their taught field. National American University-Watertown has been serving students since 2006 and is one of the university’s fastest-growing locations.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
1 online bachelor’s and master’s degree offered
Additional associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing are campus-based
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
National American University offers an RN to BSN online option, which allows students to complete advanced education opening the door for career opportunities in research, management, leadership, and teaching. Admission to the BSN program requires a 2.8 GPA, associate’s degree, and nursing license. The program offers a foundational education for nurses pursuing a BSN for increased education and career opportunities or as a stepping stone to an advanced degree. Learning outcomes of the program as defined by National American University include the ability to:
Synthesize interdisciplinary knowledge to take a holistic approach to nursing
Apply theoretical concepts and critical thinking skills in practice and unpredictable contexts
Evaluate and implement relevant research findings
Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct
Commit to staying abreast of shifting trends through continuing education
Duration and Cost
The program tuition is approximately $66,810.00 and requires 186.5 credits to complete.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing (MSN)
The online Master’s of Science in Nursing program is specialized with an emphasis in nursing education. Students further specialize their program by choosing select areas of interest to focus their study. The goal is to prepare nurses for globally-minded education and leadership roles in a variety of settings. Students take a variety of courses including “Theories in a Global World, Research, Online Nursing Education, Simulation Nursing Education, and a Nursing Capstone Project and Practicum.”
Duration and Cost
The program tuition is approximately $20,000 and requires approximately 30 credits to complete.
Faculty
Most faculty at National American University hold advanced degrees (except for one which holds a BSN). Their academic and research interests are broad including end-of-life issues, medical surgery, maternal care, and active learning and simulation.
Things to consider:
Verify that the program is available in your state, as the degree programs are not approved in all states
Not currently accredited by a nursing body, but the decision is forthcoming
MSN nursing program only allows 3 courses to be transferred in (Theories in a Global World, Ethics and Leadership)
Accreditation
National American University’s bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in nursing have received new applicant status by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and are in the process of being considered for full accreditation.
Address:
National American University- Watertown
925 29th St. S.E.
Watertown, SD 57201
Liberty University
Liberty University was founded in 1971 with the goal of providing a fundamental, biblically-based education. Since then, Liberty University has grown into over 140 undergraduate and 90 graduate programs. The faculty-student ratio of the university is 23:1. The university offers accredited programs in academic fields from athletic studies to law to nursing. Liberty University also has plans to develop a medical university.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
1 online bachelor’s degree and 1 online master’s degree offered.
A campus-based bachelor’s degree in nursing is also offered in several formats
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
The nursing programs at Liberty University are based upon Patricia Brenner’s philosophy of nursing. Nursing programs at Liberty University are designed for nurses pursuing an education concurrent with Christian ethical standards and seek nursing a ministry of providing care.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
The online RN to BSN online degree programs see the completion of a bachelor’s degree as not only a personal accomplishment and door to more professional opportunity but a contribution to the nursing field, as more educated nurses mean a more educated profession. The nursing program at the bachelor’s degree level seeks to develop Biblical experience and general education as a foundation for the nursing profession. Core components of the bachelor’s degree curriculum include Nursing as a Demonstration of Christ’s Love, Critical Thinking/Problem-Solving Skills, and Leadership Skills.
Duration and Cost
The course takes approximately two to four years to complete, depending on the number of credits transferred in. Thirty hours of upper-level nursing coursework must be completed at the university, and 120 credits are required for the degree. Tuition costs from the program range from $295 to $320 per credit for full and part-time enrollment respectively.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing
The online master’s in nursing is a nurse educator track that is designed to assist future nurses in promoting teaching, program development, and scholarship in their future careers. The program is based on the curriculum guidelines of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. At the beginning of the program, nurses set individualized program goals and objectives and a personal practicum under the direction of a faculty mentor. Courses in the program include understanding research and assessment, advanced educational psychology, advanced health assessment, and teaching strategies and evaluation.
Duration and Cost
The online master’s degree program is 36 credit hours. Tuition costs from the program are $438 per credit for full-time enrollment.
Faculty
Most faculty of Liberty University’s nursing programs hold advanced degrees. All graduate faculty hold graduate degrees. Faculty research interests include community health, pediatrics, and gerontology.
Things to consider:
Students in the RN to BSN program must maintain a 2.5 GPA
Nurses in the online bachelor’s degree program must hold a nursing qualification
Programs are not available in all states
Students of the online master’s program must verify local board approval and local practicum approval (via US Department of Education) on their own
Students in the online master’s program are required to earn grades of “B” or higher (3.0 GPA)
Accreditation
Liberty University’s nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Virginia State Board of Nursing.
Address: Liberty University 1971 University Boulevard Lynchburg, VA 24502
Lewis University
Lewis University is a private, not-for-profit Catholic and Lasallian-based university in Illinois. Founded in 1932, the university claims the distinction of being Illinois’ largest bachelor’s degree program in nursing. Furthermore, t he University claims recent nursing students received a 100% pass rate on their exams. Over 80 undergraduate and 25 graduate programs of study are offered throughout the university.
With approximately 6,500 undergraduate and graduate students combined and a 13:1 student to faculty ratio, Lewis University strives to provide individualized attention and small classes for every student. Popular programs include aviation, criminal justice, education, nursing, and business. Lewis University is one of over 300 universities sponsored by the De La Salle Christian Brothers.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
1 online master’s degree offered
Option to complete the program in combined online and campus-based format
Additional campus-based nursing degree programs are available from certificate to doctoral degrees including a bachelor’s degree program (BSN) for pre-licensed nurses.
Transfer students are accepted
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Lewis University offers an online master’s degree program for nurses whose personal and professional commitments prevent them from completing a traditional full-time program. Nursing programs at Lewis University employ Catholic and Lasallian values, including critical thinking, compassion, critical thinking, and teaching. The program practice is based on standards set by the American Nurses Association. Small class sizes, interaction with faculty, discussion, and sharing of experiences among students are key characteristics of the nursing program.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing (MSN)
Lewis University offers an online master’s degree in nursing with specializations in Nursing Management and Nursing Education. The core courses for the program are:
Strategic Directions in Healthcare
Organization, Policy, and Financing in Healthcare
Human Diversity and Social Issues in Advanced Practice Nursing
Theoretical Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice
Advanced Nursing Research
Healthcare Fiscal Integrity
Healthcare Information Management
Program Planning and Evaluation
Nursing Administration courses include Dimensions in Healthcare Leadership, Dynamics in Healthcare Organizations, and Business Skills for Healthcare Organizations. Nursing Education core courses include Educational Theory, Curriculum Development, and Evaluation and Teaching Methodology and delivery systems. Students have the option of completing a practicum or thesis to culminate their degree program. The thesis involves a formal research study conducted over two semesters. The practicum can be a field experience or scholarly project completed over 1-2 semesters under the supervision of a site facilitator.
Duration and Cost
The online master’s degree in nursing program at Lewis University is 42-45 credits. The tuition for the program is approximately $31,000 to $33,000.
Faculty
Nursing faculty at Lewis University hold advanced degrees including doctoral qualifications (Ph.D., EdD, and JD).
Things to consider:
Program cost above is for tuition only
Students must hold a 3.2 GPA in all core and specialization courses in order to participate in the thesis and practicum
Accreditation
Lewis University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association Nursing programs at Lewis University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Address:
Lewis University
One University Parkway
Romeoville, IL 60446-2200
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
Kent State University
Kent State University is among the largest college systems in the USA, with other eight campuses, the university offers over 280 academic programs at the certificate through doctoral level. The Ohio based university has 101 years experience (founded in 1910) providing higher education to students. Kent State University students can enjoy the feel of a large, research institution on the main campus in Kent, or one of the smaller campuses that offer a small, liberal arts college feel.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
1 online bachelor’s degree and 1 post master’s certificate in nursing
Online MSN Nursing concentration program is in progress
Campus-based associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral degrees and post master’s concentration certificates are available.
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Kent State University offers program for nurses of all levels. Students can begin by earning their RN degree through the campus-based associate’s degree program, online BSN, and master’s degree and certificate courses. Kent State University is in the process of developing more online course opportunities, including the posy-master’s nursing certificate
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
The RN to BSN program at Kent State University offers a focus in disease prevention and risk reduction. A unique feature of the program allows nurses to take up to 12 graduate degree credits while pursuing their BSN. This is particularly helpful for nurses who do not want to pursue a graduate degree, but are seeking leadership and teaching positions, which would normally require a master’s degree. Students may enroll in classes full or part-time and each course in seven weeks. Course topics include inquiry and research for professional nursing practice, health care policy, population-based nursing, and health promotion. Students are required to complete an individualized capstone project. The course also offers to unique study abroad experiences in Switzerland and Ireland, which examines global health. The BSN focuses on management and obtaining leadership opportunities, being a change agent and providing a foundation for graduate level study. Health promotion, teaching, and information technology are key competency areas in the program.
Duration and Cost
RNs are required to complete 122 credits total for graduation, including liberal arts education and foundation requirements. Thirty-nine upper division nursing courses required to earn the degree. Course costs range from 421-431 per credit depending if students are resident or non-resident of Ohio.
Faculty
Kent State University has a large base of nursing faculty, all of whom hold advanced degrees, and many also have PhD degrees. The university has a Center for Nursing Research on the main campus, with which one-third of all nursing faculty are involved.
Things to consider:
Program has start dates in fall, spring, and summer only
Only one online bachelor’s degree in nursing is offered
Accreditation
Kent State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association. Kent State University’s online RN to BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Address:
Kent State University
800 East Summit Street
Kent, OH 44242-2501
Keiser University
Formerly known as Keiser College, Keiser University began in 1977 in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Keiser University offers certificates, associate’s through doctoral degrees in several languages (including Spanish and Mandarin MBA programs). Academic areas of study include business, information technology, education, health sciences and English as a foreign language. The college also has partnerships with universities in China and Moldova, and serves over 10,000 students.
Campus based associate’s degree in nursing (ADN), as well as campus based options for bachelor’s and master’s degrees
Classes begin every month
Transfer credits are accepted, but please note that the acceptance of transfer credits are subject to review by the school and cannot be guaranteed.
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
With over 76% of Keiser’s student body working full or part time providing flexible opportunities for learning is a key component of online nursing degree programs at Keiser University. The university employs the “one-class-at-a-time” approach allowing students to complete their courses while balancing and maintaining a productive work and personal life.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN)
The online bachelor’s degree in nursing emphasizes critical thinking, research, leadership and health promotion while examining the political, social and economic factors that influence healthcare. The program framework focuses on core skills of knowledge, critical thinking, skills performance, collaboration, caring and professionalism as defined in the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s core competencies and program guidelines. Courses include nutrition, nursing and the aging family, crisis intervention, nursing role and scope and ethical and legal aspects of nursing practice.
Program objectives include educating nurses who operate within an ethical, legal framework, to develop caring and compassionate nurses who can communicate confidently and effectively with patients and their families, and develop the skills for nurses to work in well-defined and challenging situations.
Duration and Cost
The program requires 60 upper division credits, and takes approximately 1 year and 8 months to complete if all program prerequisites are fulfilled. Please note that this program length pertains to graduating in normal time.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing (MSN)
Keiser University’s online master’s degree program is a new option for the university. Although the masters degree requires a practicum, the options for fulfilling it are quite broad including professional meetings, leadership activities, technological field trips, and interdepartmental study. Students culminate their studies with a 3 credit capstone project (included in the 33 credit requirement).
Program objectives included developing critical thinking, culturally competent, ethical and caring nurses who are leaders in health care systems. Courses for the master’s program include nursing theory for research and practice, health promotion and disease prevention, human diversity, global health and social issues, and advanced health assessment for best practice.
Doctorate
The Doctor of Nursing Practice program graduate will possess advanced competencies for increasingly complex practice, faculty, and leadership roles in nursing. The curriculum focuses on integrating nursing science with knowledge from ethics, biophysical, psychosocial, analytical, and organizational sciences as the basis for the highest level of evidence-based nursing practice. The program is comprehensive and time-efficient, and fosters motivated, self-directed learners who are able to utilize the highest levels of education to improve nursing practice and patient outcomes. The DNP program equips students with mastery in the areas of leadership, evidence-based practice, policy, scholarship, and interprofessional collaboration.
This program aims to fulfill the recommendations of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) guidelines as prescribed in The Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice (October, 2006) and The Doctor of Nursing Practice: Current Issues and Clarifying Recommendations (August, 2015)
To receive a Doctor of Nursing degree, students must earn 36 graduate semester credit hours including Core courses (21 credits), DNP Project courses (4 credits, 60 clinical hours), Practice Immersion courses (8 credit hours, 480 clinical hours), and one elective course (3 credit hours). Courses in the DNP program are eight weeks in length and scheduled for one or two courses concurrently. The DNP Practice Immersion require on-site hours at instructor-approved practice sites.
Transfer of graduate credits will be evaluated on a case by case basis. Thirty credit hours must be completed through Keiser University. Duration and Cost
The master in nursing course requires 36-42 credits to complete and take about 1 year to complete. This program completion length pertains to graduating in normal time.
Faculty
Faculty of Keiser University are experienced in their field and hold advanced degrees.
Things to consider:
Online master’s degree program requires a 2.7 GPA or higher
Fees listed above include tuition only
Accreditation
Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award certificates and degrees at the associate, baccalaureate, masters, specialist, and doctoral levels. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Keiser University.
The Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing at Keiser University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, One Dupont Circle, NW, Suite 530, Washington, DC 20036, 202-887-6791. For more information about Keiser University’s BSN programs, go to http://www.keiseruniversity.edu/nursing-BS.php
Jacksonville University
Founded in 1934 as a community college offering evening classes for adult students, Jacksonville University now offers 7 bachelor’s degree programs in over 7 majors. Areas of study include business, orthodontics, education and nursing. The college seeks to offer a comprehensive education to its students and has internship, study abroad, ROTC, service learning and athletics programs, which students may participate in to enhance their educational experience.
Overview of Programs, Certificates and Degrees
1 online bachelor’s and 1 online master’s degree
Additional bachelor’s and master’s degrees offered
Doctor of Nursing program began in 2011, and is currently offered in hybrid format (evening classes and online)
Over 90 percent of freshman students receive scholarships
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Nursing programs at Jacksonville University emphasize scholarly inquiry, clinical application and a liberal arts foundation.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
The online RN to BSN degree program was designed for nurses with busy family lives. Nurses can transfer up to 30 credits from their previous RN coursework, and take courses from anywhere they have internet access. Course format includes video lectures and chat rooms. Students will complete local practicums, eliminating the need for travel to a university. Classes are asynchronous, meaning students can study course material according to their schedule; and no specific login times are required for the courses. Core courses in the program include community focused professional nursing, advance acute care concepts, and nursing assessment for the practicing nurse. Elective courses are offered in global health and alternative therapies.
Duration and Cost
The program requires 120 credits total (30 of which may be transferred from previous RN education), and tuition is approximately $438 per credit hour. The course can be completed in as little as 2 years.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing
Jacksonville University’s online master’s degree in nursing offers two specializations Nursing Education and Leadership in Healthcare Systems. The master’s program is taught by faculty holding doctoral degrees. Students in the master’s program will study a specialized course related to their concentration and career options include serving as Nurse Administrator, Nurse Executive or Nurse Professional Development Coordinator. Core courses in the nursing master’s program include nursing theory and research, advanced community health, and nursing topical electives. Students are required to complete a practicum and research-based thesis. Nursing Education specialization courses include grant writing and resource development, educational technology, and management of information technology. Core courses in the Leadership and Healthcare specialization include nursing leadership and health policy, financial management of nursing systems, and quality and safety in healthcare.
Duration and Cost
The program requires approximately 24 months to complete. Students also have the option of taking up two sessions off, and also take two courses simultaneously depending on their personal schedule and timeline for completing their program. Tuition is approximately $618 per credit.
Faculty
All nursing faculty at Jacksonville University hold advance graduate degrees, and over half hold doctoral degrees. Faculty have published and presented their research in the USA and abroad.
Things to consider:
RN to BSN program has only 6 yearly start dates
Online courses are offered in collaboration with University Alliance
Only 3 yearly start dates are offered for master’s degree programs
Accreditation
Jacksonville University’s online nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on College Nursing Education (CCNE).
Address:
Jacksonville University
2800 University Blvd N
Jacksonville, FL 32211
Indiana Wesleyan University
In 1920, the first graduating class of Marion State College was five students. Now known as Indiana Wesleyan University, the university serves over 15,000 students and offers associates through doctoral level degrees in over 80 majors, including art, theology and education. Indiana Wesleyan University claims to be the fastest growing university in Indiana due in great part to the university’s new nursing school.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
1 online nursing certificate, 1 bachelors and 4 masters degrees
Additional campus-based nursing programs are available
Offers the Nurse Faculty Loan Program (NFLP), a forgivable government loan which can cover the entire cost of the program including tuition, books, and fees
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Indiana Wesleyan University is an evangelical Christian university, which incorporates this belief system in their educational programs. Faculty and staff are committed to providing a Christ-centered education, in which students can develop their personal and professional values.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
Indiana Wesleyan University offers an online post RN baccalaureate degree that current registered nurses can complete from the comfort of their home. Nurses will take courses in gerontology, ethics, leadership and management and alternative therapies.
Duration and Cost
The program can be completed in 19 months as courses are taken in sequence, one at a time. Tuition for the bachelor’s degree program is about $15,000 and requires 40 credits to complete.
Online Master’s Degrees in Nursing
Indiana Wesleyan University offers three specializations in their online master’s degree programs, a combined MSN/MBA program, Nursing Administration, and Nursing Education. The MSN/MBA program focuses on integrating nursing and business schools to manage an effective healthcare system. Courses include organizational leadership, applied managerial accounting and healthcare policy. The Nursing Administration program is designed to meet the competencies and standards of the American Organization of Nursing Executives (AONE). Nurses will develop sound leadership skills and foundational preparation for educating positions in post-secondary institutions. Coursework for the Nurse Administrator course includes organization and finance of health care, theoretical foundations of advanced nursing and a practicum. Students in the Nursing Education concentration will develop skills and knowledge to deliver effective education. Coursework includes teaching and learning strategies, advanced nursing instruction, and a student-teaching component.
Duration and Cost
The master’s courses range in requirements from 38 to 60 credits, and $495-500 per credit hour.
Online Certificate Degree in Nursing
The Certificate in Parish Nursing is designed for RNs who would like to use their services in a church or congregational setting. In the current economic season, many find themselves unable to identify and treat basic health needs with the loss of insurance tied to employment. Parish Nurses will take courses in counseling theory; theology, healing and healthcare and spiritual care across the lifespan to prepare for their role as a parish nurse. Upon completion of the program nurses will be able to plan, coordinate and implement teaching and learning opportunities that will assist the church in health and wellness promotion.
Duration and Cost
This 15 credit program costs $316 per credit.
Faculty
Faculty at Indiana Wesleyan hold advanced degrees, and several hold PhD degrees.
Things to consider:
Students must have high-speed internet to access to use the learning management software
Online courses have specific start dates, and do not begin every month
Accreditation
The programs of the Indiana Wesleyan University School of Nursing are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Indiana State Board of Nursing.
Address:
Indiana Wesleyan University
4201 S. Washington St.
Marion, IN 46953
Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon University strives to serve both traditional and working students alike. The university has a mission of incorporating Christian values in its education and teaching students practical applications of Christianity in the workplace.
Though founded in 1949 by the Southern Baptist Church, the university recently went public in hopes of expanding its reach and resources. The parent company of the institution is Grand Canyon Education. With course offerings in business, fine arts and production, business, social sciences, and approximately 5,000 students, Grand Canyon University is on the way to its goal.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
1 online bachelor’s, 5 online master’s degree bridge programs 5 online master’s degrees and 1 online post master’s degree program offered.
Over 20 online and campus-based nursing programs.
Courses can be completed in an online/on-campus combination.
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Grand Canyon University students take courses one course at a time and are available 24/7 for students to complete their programs. Course offerings include university foundations, global perspectives, and nursing from a Christian worldview.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
The online Registered Nurse to Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing degree program provides the bridge for nurses to go from a diploma or an associate’s degree to a four-year degree and advance career opportunities.
Duration and Cost
The online RN to BSN program is approximately $55,000 and requires 120 credits total, 36 of which are actual core credits to be completed at Grand Canyon University.
Online Master’s Degrees in Nursing
Bridge Programs
The bridge programs are designed to assist registered nurses with a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing to meet the necessary pre-requisites to enter the MSN degree program. Students complete a modified RN to BSN program and culminate with enrollment and completion of one of the master’s degree options below.
Duration and Cost
Bridge program tuition fees are approximately $9,000 for the bridge courses, plus the applicable master’s degree fees. Course length ranges from 54 credits to 84 credits for the dual degree MBA program.
Master’s degree of Science in Nursing
There are five online master’s of science in nursing degree options, each with a focused specialization. The five specializations are Health Care Informatics, Nursing Education, Public Health, and Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems, the last of which is also offered as a dual degree option along with an MBA.
Duration and Cost
Master’s course tuition fees range from $20,000 to $37,000, and course length ranges from 36 credits to 66 credits for the dual degree MBA program.
Online Certificates in Nursing
The Post-master’s Degree Certificate in Nursing Education offers students the opportunity to become a staff educator or faculty educator in a traditional or non-traditional college. In addition to exploring nursing topics through an evidence-based model, students will learn assessment and curriculum development techniques.
Duration and Cost
The post-master’s degree certificate fees are approximately $12,000, and the course length is 20 credits.
Faculty
A large number of nursing faculty are available to assist students and have a wide variety of qualifications and backgrounds. Several have over 20 years of experience in the field. A designated group of full-time nursing faculty teaches exclusively for the online program.
Things to consider:
Not all programs are accredited by a nursing body
Accreditation
Grand Canyon University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Address:
Grand Canyon University
3300 West Camelback Road
Phoenix, AZ 85017-3030
Graceland University
Graceland University was established as Graceland College by the Community of Christ Church in 1895. Though Graceland University’s nursing programs have been in existence since 1910, the college did not become a four-year institution until 1960. The college now offers baccalaureate, master’s, doctoral and pre-degree programs in law, medicine, business, and social sciences.
Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees
1 online baccalaureate, 2 online master’s, and 1 online doctoral nursing program
Certificates and an additional bachelor’s degree program are campus-based
Students must complete a clinical practicum in their location
Grants, federal aid, and a unique grant program are available to nurses who work in under-served areas.
Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review
Graceland offers a wide variety of online health programs in every tier from baccalaureate to doctoral programs.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
RN to BSN
Students who hold an active nursing license can participate in the online Registered Nurse to Bachelors of Science degree in the nursing program. Course offerings include global health issues, maternal health, therapeutic interventions, community healthcare, adult health care, psychosocial aspects of care, and health assessment. Tuition is $467 per credit hour; 124 credits are required for graduation, some of which can be transferred from a previously completed RN program. Students may also complete an accelerated program allowing them to drop one semester, however certain academic stipulations must be met prior to enrollment.
Online Master’s Degree in Nursing
RN to MSN
The online RN to MSN program offers RNs the opportunity to save 11 credits of coursework by completing their BSN and MSN degrees in an accelerated program. Students also have the option of stopping out along the way and completing just the BSN portion of their program. Students choose from a Family Nurse Practitioner or Nurse Educator specialization for their master’s coursework. Tuition is $467 and $597 per for baccalaureate and master’s level courses respectively.
Nurse Educator/Family Nurse Practitioner
For nursing professionals who already hold a BSN degree and a nursing license, students may complete the master’s only option and choose from one of two specializations. Courses are $597 per credit hour.
Course offerings for the family nurse practitioner specialization include primary care of families in pediatrics and adults, advanced practice procedures, and a practicum. Courses for the nurse educator specialization include curriculum development, assessment of learning, and teaching strategies. The family nurse practitioner and nurse educator specializations require 47 and 40 credits to graduate respectively.
Online Doctoral Degree in Nursing
The online Doctor of Nursing (DNP) program is new to Graceland and is recently announced as a logical step in their educational offerings, as nursing has been a part of the institution from its beginnings. Course offerings include epidemiology, biostatistics, organizational leadership and collaboration, and a capstone project. The program tuition fee is $807 per credit hour. The DNP course requires 31 credits to complete the program.
Faculty
The faculty at Graceland University hold qualifications from baccalaureate to doctoral degrees.
Things to consider:
Some courses require students to meet an online residency requirement at the Missouri campus.
MSN students must hold a BSN and current license at the time of being accepted to the program.
Accreditation
Graceland University’s nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and have full approval status with the Iowa Board of Nursing and the Missouri State Board of Nursing.
Address:
Graceland University
1 University Place
Lamoni, IA 50140
The more competitive the market becomes, the more work we as providers must do to continually improve the patient experience and develop customer loyalty.
