Georgetown University

George Washington University

Founded in 1821 in George Washington’s honor, George Washington University fulfilled the First President’s dream of having a university in the nation’s capital dedicating to educating future leaders.  The dream is fully realized today with students from all 50 states and over 100 other countries.  Students can earn bachelors, masters, doctoral degrees and certificates in programs including engineering, international relations and creative writing.

Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees

• 5 online master’s, 1 online doctoral and 4 online post-graduate certificate nursing programs
• Campus-based Baccalaureate degrees are also offered
• Up to 15 credits from George Washington University’s BSN program can be applied towards the master’s program

Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review

George Washington University offers a variety of online healthcare education options for degreed nurses seeking flexible options to keep working while advancing their skill set and education.  George Washington University nursing programs emphasize the intersection of research, practice and leadership skills.

Online Master’s Degrees in Nursing

Adult Nurse Practitioner

The adult nurse practitioner program is ideal for RNs ready to advance their career scope and role in the nursing field.  The course focuses on using evidence based nursing and real-world applications of nursing and topic areas include health assessment, anticipatory guidance, diagnosis, treatment and management of common health concerns and population health. The program tuition is about $31,000 and the full-time program requires approximately 2 years of study in addition to a 600 hour clinical practicum.

Clinical Research Administration for Nurses

This course focuses on training nurses to develop educational treatment plans. This course is particularly rigorous and requires self-discipline and determination on the student’s part as it covers regulatory requirements, ethical issues, product development processes, and business aspects of clinical research.  The program tuition is about $25,000 and the full-time program requires approximately 2 years of study.                                                                                                     

Family Nurse Practitioner

The family nurse practitioner specialization is similar to the adult nursing practitioner course, except that it involves training nurses specifically to work in leadership roles in primary care settings with families and individuals. As with the adult nurse practitioner course, topics covered include diagnosis and treatment of common health issues, community health, and health assessment. The program tuition is about $33,000 and the full-time program requires approximately 2 years of study in addition to a 750 hour clinical practicum.

Health Care Quality

The health care quality program focuses on creating, developing and serving in patient safety and quality of care protocol strategies.  Graduates of this program can work in a variety of research, health care and organizational settings.  Students will learn to translate national health care quality requirements into daily operations.  The program tuition is about $25,000 and the full-time program requires approximately 2 years of study.

Nursing Leadership and Management

The nursing leadership and management program focuses on creating effective nursing administrators, which understand and have experience with treating patients that can inform hospital administration and policy.  In addition to nursing, courses include training in human resources, marketing, finance and economics. Strategic thinking, decision making and leading through change and improvements are aspects of this course. The program tuition is about $25,000 and the full-time program requires approximately 2 years of study.

Online Doctoral Degree in Nursing

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is a research-informed, practical doctoral program.  Unlike many nursing programs, George Washington University’s program is not solely research based.  The DNP program offers comprehensive training in conducting research, providing high quality patient care, managing quality of care issues and incorporating health policy, practice and business, and information technology to effectively manage health care institutions and organizations alike.  Students culminate their program with a clinical research project. The program tuition is approximately $25,000 and completed on a part-time basis over 3 years of study.

Online Certificates Degree in Nursing

Family Nurse Practitioner

See description above for master’s degree. The course requires 30-45 credits depending on a general or advanced course track and is $20,000 to $32,000 depending on the course track one chooses. The general certificate program also requires a 750-800 hour clinical component.

Adult Nurse Practitioner

See description above for master’s degree. The course requires 27 credits and tuition is $19,000 depending on the course track one chooses.

Health Care Quality

See description above for master’s degree. The course requires 15 credits, and is approximately $10,500 in tuition fees.

Palliative Care Nurse Practitioner

For nurses who work with the aging population with chronic health issues, end of life issues and their loved ones, nurses will learn how to provide excellent end of life care and can take the National Board for Certification of Hospice and Palliative Care exam after completing this short 3 semester course.  The certificate is approximately $9,000 in tuition fees.

Things to consider:

• Students are required to attend 3 on campus experiences at their own expense
• Students should find their own preceptor to complete 600-800 clinical hour requirements for some courses, though the school can assist if the student encounters difficulty
• Costs above include tuition only, fees, books and necessary travel for on campus components are required
• Many courses have on campus components

Accreditation

The George Washington University School of Nursing’s Baccalaureate, Master’s and Doctor of Nursing Practice programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. 

Address:
The George Washington University
2121 I Street, NW
Washington, DC 20052

Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences

Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences is a faith-based, private institution founded in 1992.  The college works closely with Florida Hospital to offer programs in nursing and allied health to a variety of students.  Florida Hospital is the largest healthcare facility operated by the Seventh Day Adventist Church, and Christian values and education are incorporated into student life and programs.

Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees

• 1 online bachelor’s degree program
• Campus-based associate’s and master’s degree programs
• Students have up to five years from their program start date to complete their degree

Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review

The online RN to BSN degree program is delivered in collaboration with Embanet-Compass Knowledge Group, LLC.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing

Designed specifically with working nurses in mind, the online RN to BSN program aims to provide a rigorous learning environment for busy professionals, while maintaining flexibility to complete coursework from home.

Course Format

Students learn in small groups, and are monitored by a faculty member.

Course Descriptions

Concepts of Professional Nursing

In this course, students will develop a personal philosophy of nursing, and learn the concepts, communication skills as well as common challenges related to nursing at the baccalaureate-level.

Health Promotion and Assessment

Students will learn the basics of promoting and assessing health in the nursing environment.  Students will exam variations among healthy patients, age variations, as well as common abnormal results.

Community Health Nursing

Using an epidemiological framework, this course focuses on assessment and analysis of community health needs.  Primary, secondary and tertiary levels of care are emphasized

Pharmacology

In this case, students learn the basics of drugs used to treat patients including common treatment regimens, drug interactions, and analyzing multiple drug regimens.  Pharmacokinetics (body’s action on drug) and pharmacodynamics (drug’s action on body) are also part of this course.

Nursing of the Childbearing Family

This course focuses on providing care to families in the childbearing time. From pre-natal to post-partum care, the nurse will learn to assist the family in identifying and limiting environmental stressors

Duration and Cost

Students can complete the program in as little as 18 months or up to five years from their start date depending on their personal needs and schedule.

Faculty

The faculty at Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences come from all over the USA and hold advanced degrees in their field

Things to consider:

• Classes require scheduled 1 hour chat sessions and weekly course assignments

• A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 with no grade below a “C” in the previous degree program is required
• Students must hold a current RN license, or if a recent graduate, be eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN

 Accreditation

Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). Nursing programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commissions (NLNAC).

Address:
Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences
2145 Metro Center Blvd., Suite 400
Orlando, FL 32835

Colorado Christian University

With a legacy of almost 100 years, Colorado Christian University had humble beginnings starting with just two students and one teacher.  What began as Denver Bible Institute in 1914 is now a full-grown university offering bachelor’s, master’s and online degrees in fields such as business, organizational leadership, psychology and over 50 programs total.  Following a merger with Colorado Baptist University in 1989, Colorado Christian University sought to become an influential Christian university offering a Biblically centered education.

Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees

• One online nursing (RN-BSN) program and one campus based nursing (BSN) program
• Can be completed one year after pre-requisites are complete
• University accepts up to 38 transferred nursing credit hours
• Scholarships and federal financial aid are available

Colorado Christian University strives to incorporate Christian and Biblical principles and the characteristics of compassion and serve in their nursing degree programs.

Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review

Online Courses for a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing

Program Description

The online Registered Nurse to Bachelor’s of Science degree in nursing program is specifically for RN’s busy with full-time work and family commitments preventing them from completing a traditional campus based program.  The program is offered in a collaborative, cohort format facilitating developing relationships, camaraderie and the feel of a traditional learning environment among students.  The cohort model at Colorado Christian University also seeks to build a professional network of diverse perspectives for each student graduating from the program.  Program topics include informatics, genomics, bioethics and global health.  Because of the Christian roots and heritage of the university, additional study in moral leadership and Christian nursing theory are also part of the course.  Nurses also have the opportunity to complete an international mission experience related to their field of study. The program has a strong focus on character building and the role of a nurse as a compassionate caregiver.

Courses and Format

Courses for the online degree program are completed one at a time in five or ten week modules.  Class sizes are small, collaborative, and may be completed online at anytime.  Online submission of assignments and class discussion is required.

Cost and Duration

The program requires an RN to complete approximately 15 months of upper credit division coursework, once prerequisites are met.  Completing all credits at Colorado Christian University requires tuition of approximately $11,700 assuming the student is only completing the 31 required nursing credits for the program.

Faculty

Colorado Christian University faculty employs both domestic and international faculty who are experts in the healthcare field.  The faculty at Colorado Christian University hold doctoral degrees and many also have international experience.

Things to consider:

• Program requires an active, unencumbered nursing license (USA only), drug screening, and background check
• Admission to the program requires a 2.5 GPA or higher

Accreditation

Colorado Christian University has national nursing program accreditation through the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Address:
Colorado Christian University
8787 W. Alameda Ave.
Lakewood, Colorado 80226

College America

College America was founded in 1964, and strives to help students achieve their educational goals and meet the ever changing demands in the fields of medicine, business, and graphic design.  Formerly known as Control Data Institute, the college got its start as Control Data Institute, which offered specialized computer courses. When the college became part of the College America family in 1993, other programs including accounting and computer technology became a part of the program.

Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degree

• 6 bachelor’s and 2 master’s degree programs.
• Federal aid and scholarships available.
• Monthly course starts so that students can meet their educational goals on their schedule.
• Students can obtain the use of a free laptop, which they can keep upon graduation.

Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review

Online nursing degree programs at College America are offered through their sister university, Stevens-Henager College in Utah.

Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Nursing

Nursing

An overview in nursing designed for those seeking graduate education and a wider variety of career prospects alike, this general online bachelor’s course in nursing is specifically for registered nurses.  Course topics examine the psychology and sociology of illness, statistics and critical issues in nursing.

Nursing Administration

Designed specifically for nurses pursuing graduate education or a leadership role, the online program in nursing administration covers topics mentioned in the general nursing degree, but also organizational behavior and biological psychology courses.

Nursing Administration-Clinical Nurse Educator Emphasis

The Clinical Nurse educator program is for nurses seeking advancement in the form of entry-level supervisory opportunities without taking on increased clinical duties.

Nursing Administration-Community Health Nurse Emphasis

For nurses who’d like to work with high-risk, under served and vulnerable populations within a community, the community health nurse emphasis provides coursework in disaster nursing and epidemiology and community health.

Nursing Administration-Nurse Case Manager Emphasis

Working in a setting such as a long-term care facility or with a small population within a care facility, may require case management.  Courses like managed healthcare and utilization management assist students in the nurse case manager emphasis program plan and manage their caseloads effectively.

Nursing Administration-Nursing Informatics Emphasis

Students in the Nursing Informatics emphasis use technology and evidenced based nursing to assist their colleagues in providing the most effective and up-to-date care to their patients.

Cost and Duration

College America’s online bachelor’s degree programs are 20 months and tuition and fees range from $31,000 to $41,000

Online Master’s Degrees in Nursing

Nursing Administration

Health policy, systems of information, and the management of facility resources are the key focus of the online master’s in Nursing Administration program.  Students in this program are required to complete an individual or group thesis project that demonstrates understanding of the program’s learning objectives.

Nursing Education

Learn how to master the difficult challenges and issues that nurses must face then inspire, teach and lead others to do the same in the Nursing Education course.  An individual practicum related to your personal interest and developed in collaboration with a faculty member are a requirement of the course.

Cost and Duration

Online master’s degree programs at College America are 15 months and tuition fees are approximately $28,000.

Accreditation

College America is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).

Address:
College America
1385 South Colorado Boulevard
Denver, CO 80222

Chemeketa Community College

Salem, Oregon based Chemeketa Community College is a small-town American university with big city charm.  Though small in geographic area, Chemeketa Community College offers a wide variety of certificate, associate’s degrees and lifelong learning courses in everything from medicinal herbs to vegan cooking and Arabic language. Founded in 1969, Chemeketa Community College is the result of local residents coming together to establish Salem Technical-Vocational school into a full-fledged community institution. Chemeketa Community College now serves over 50,000 students.

Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees

• College offers online courses in health services management and Chemistry
• Campus-based certificated Nursing Assistant program
• College has partnerships with Linfield College’s online RN to BSN program
• Health Informatics and Health Services management are associate’s degree options also available for nurses at the college.

Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review

At this time, nursing and health care related degree programs are not offered online at Chemeketa Community College. However, courses in chemistry and health services management can be completed online and possibly count towards a degree or certificate.

Online Courses for a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing

Program Description

Courses and Format

Cost and Duration

Courses for a Certificate’s in Nursing

Nursing Assistant Program

The Nursing Assistant program is a campus-based certificate program that allows graduates to obtain nursing assistant roles in health care facilities such as nursing homes, long-term care homes and hospitals.  One year after completion, nursing assistants are eligible to sit for the exam to become a licensed vocational nurse. The approximate cost for college-related tuition and program fees is $1,150 plus additional costs for fingerprinting and board examinations. The course requires 155 hours of classroom and lab training.  Enrolment in the course is limited and applicants should meet pre-requisites and apply in advance.

Practical Nurse Certificate Program

Practical Nurses will work under the supervision of registered nurses and degreed health care professional in providing care to patients. Tuition fees range from $5,000 to $14,000 depending on student residential status and the program requires 53 credits to complete.

Courses for an Associate’s Degree in Nursing

The nursing associate’s degree of applied science at Chemeketa Community College offers a comprehensive education to students and qualifies them to take the RN exam upon completion of coursework. The tuition for the program ranges from $9,000 to $25,000 dependent upon the student’s residential status and requires 97 credits to complete.

Additional Online Courses

The nursing program also offers online course options to current nurses and health services professionals interested in staying abreast of current trends in nursing and furthering their qualifications without earning a degree. Additional information and class times can only be found by calling the nursing office directly at (503) 399-5058.

Things to consider:

• Nursing programs are currently campus-based
• No current openings (waiting list only) for the associate’s degree in nursing program

Accreditation

Chemeketa Community College nursing programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

Address:
Chemeketa Community College
4000 Lancaster Drive NE
P.O. Box 14007
Salem, Oregon 97309

Charter Oak State College

Established in 1973 by the Connecticut Legislature, Charter Oak State College is a very unique public college in that it focuses purely on online degree programs.  Boasting a 97% student satisfaction rate, Charter Oak State College’s online programs are known not only for the convenience and being adult-friendly, but are also quite affordable as the college is public.  Students can study fields including business, psychology, and individualized studies.

Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees

• Completely online public college
• Up to 87 transfer credits are accepted
• Two non-degree course options for current and former nurses

Charter Oak State College’s degree programs including many continuing education opportunities to cater to the life-long learner.

Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review

Charter Oak State College does not offer online degrees in nursing, but rather several courses that fulfill or serve as continuing education to individuals pursuing a career in nursing.

Online Courses for an Associate’s Degrees in Nursing

LPN to RN Bridge Course

The LPN to RN Bridge course is an online program design to meet specific requirements for Connecticut LPN’s seeking to become an RN.  The LPN to RN program is not a degree program, but is part of the fulfillment of requirements required by the Connecticut Articulation Plan and requires concurrent enrollment in a nursing associate’s degree or diploma program in Connecticut.  The course requires approximately one semester to complete and tuition is $600 to $800 dependent upon the residential status of the student.  In order to be accepted into the program, students must have completed other first-year requirements and be recommended by their school or program.

Online Continuing Education Programs

RN Refresher Course

The online RN Refresher Course consists of four modules that allow inactive Registered Nurses to obtain a focused overview of the profession in order to return to work.  This short, online program is ideal for nurses who have been away from the field for five years or less.  The course offers two theoretical (knowledge and learning based) and two clinical (application based) courses that review particular aspects of the nursing field and then allow the nurses to practice the course in an online simulator environment.  The two theoretical modules are $600 each, and the clinical modules, $700 each.  The entire course may be completed for $2600.   The entire program requires 160 hours and the modules can be completed any time day or night online.

Faculty

The teaching faculty at Charter Oak State College are all part-time and focus solely on course development and teaching. Faculty come from all over the country, and all hold advanced degrees.

Things to consider:

• RN refresher course is non-credit, but provides a certificate of completion if all 4 modules are completed
• LPN to RN program is only for nurses in Connecticut
• Nursing courses do not note current accreditation by a healthcare body

Accreditation

Charter Oak State College is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges and the Connecticut Board of Governors for Higher Education.

Address:
Charter Oak State College
55 Paul J. Manafort Dr
New Britain, CT 06053

Chamberlain College of Nursing

Chamberlain College of Nursing was established in 1889 as Deaconess College of Nursing. Founded on the rich tradition, a student in the British Deaconess tradition was Florence Nightingale, one of the most prominent nurses of her time. The name deaconess means one who is devoted to service. When DeVry, Inc. took ownership of Deaconess in 2005 and subsequently needed a name they chose, Chamberlain, a word with roots in the meaning “chief steward” and attempting to encompass the critical role of a nurse as the steward of patient care. With over 120 years of operation as a nursing college, Chamberlain offers a plethora of options for nurses of all backgrounds seeking career development.

Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees

• 1 online combined bachelor’s and master’s degree program
• 1 associate’s degree and 3 additional bachelor’s degrees are offered
• Online RN-BSN to MSN program accepts transfer credits

Online Nursing Degrees Review

Online Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Nursing

Chamberlain College of Nursing offers a combined RN to BSN to MSN (Registered Nurse, to Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing to Master’s of Science in Nursing), allowing undergraduates to enroll in a master’s degree course to fulfill a portion of their bachelor’s degree requirements.

Program Eligibility

Students enrolled in the bachelor’s program must maintain a 3.0 GPA and complete at least 25 credits of their bachelor’s degree coursework through Chamberlain College of Nursing. Students must earn a B grade in foundational nursing courses including community health nursing and evidence-based practice.

Course Description

Courses in the program include community health nursing, evidence-based practice, and health assessment. Students are required to complete a 100-hour practicum, which the student must secure and ensure it meets approval by their faculty mentor Chamberlain College of Nursing.  Students will hold both a BSN and MSN at the end of their program.

Cost and Duration

The cost of the program ranges from $28,320 to $51,270 depending on if students choose to complete the RN-BSN or also complete the MSN degree option. The program requires 1 to 3 years to complete dependent upon the number of credits transferred in and the student’s degree goal (BSN or BSN and MSN).

Faculty

Chamberlain College of Nursing’s nursing program faculty is distinguished professionals, some with over 30 years of nursing experience. Faculty have graduated from distinguished schools such as the University of Pittsburgh, hold PhDs, and have published numerous academic articles.

Things to consider:

• Please verify that the program is available in your state; students inNorth Dakota, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, Tennessee, or Vermont are currently not eligible
• The online program is currently not accredited by a nursing body
• All students must maintain an active license in the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) jurisdiction while pursuing a course of study.

Accreditation

Chamberlain College of Nursing is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

*Though campus-based BS and MS degrees are accredited by nursing bodies; the college notes no online accreditation for the RN-BSN to MSN online nursing degree option.

Address:
Chamberlain College of Nursing
National Management Offices
3005 Highland Parkway
Downers Grove, IL 60515

Carrington College California

Founded in 1967, Northwest College Medical Assistants and Dental Assistants and changed its name to Western Career College and has been known by that until 2010 when the college chose the name Carrington College California.  Beginning as a school strictly for medical and dental assistants, the college has always had its roots in the healthcare field.  Carrington College California now offers a wide variety of career fields and educational courses to pursue including graphic design, accounting and renewable energy and a variety of expanded options in the medical and dental fields.

Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees

• Online programs in health care administration and health information technology
• Two campus based programs are offered in vocational nursing and registered nursing
• Federal financial aid (FAFSA) is available

Carrington College California’s degree programs including nursing and healthcare management focus on developing the whole individual, not just provide an academic education.

Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review

Carrington College California has two campus based programs in Registered Nursing and Vocational Nursing, which are currently not offered online.  However, the college offers degrees in health care administration and health information technology, both of which are very suitable programs for nurses interested in expanding their duties, career opportunities and expertise in the health care field.

Online Associate’s Degree in Health Care Administration

The online Health Care Administration associate’s of science degree program offers a comprehensive course for those interested in operating a medical front office.  Not only will students learn and become familiar with patient rights, patient confidentiality, and insurance claims forms, but will also learn techniques for communicating with patients and medical law and ethics.  Other topics include basic anatomy, medical terminology, office software training and critical thinking skills essential in the workplace.  The program tuition is approximately $27,000 and requires about 18 months to complete.

Online Associate’s Degree in Health Information Technology

If you are interested in a fast-paced career in a health care environment, but would like limited contact with patients, the online associate’s of science degree in Health Information Technology is ideal for you.  The program offers in-depth training in the care and use of patient medical records.  Students learn how to interpret medical records, and perform medical coding and billing. Health information techs must constantly maintain, update, and track data about patient’s diagnosis, treatment, and test results.  Health information techs also coordinate with doctors and other healthcare staff to maintain the accuracy of these records.  The online health information technology program takes approximately 18 months to complete and costs about $28,000 dollars.

Faculty

Faculty at Carrington College California are experienced in their field and come from a variety of competitive online and campus-based universities.  Faculty hold advanced degrees from institutions including the University of Phoenix, University of Southern California, and Boston University.

Things to consider:

• Costs listed above are tuition only and do not include additional college fees and books
• The cost of this program is significantly higher than comparable programs
• Such specialties can also be learned in conjunction with a nursing degree at other colleges.

Accreditation

Carrington College California is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (ACCJC/WASC).

Address:
Carrington Colleges Group, Inc.
27401 Los Altos, Suite 400
Mission Viejo, California 92691

Capella University

Minneapolis based Capella University was founded in 1993 as The Graduate School of America.  Capella University boasts a 95% student satisfaction rate, and offers interested students a free one week online mini course.  Capella University’s programs are based in part on employer recommendations to ensure students receive not only theoretical and academic knowledge, but skills to help them in the workplace.

Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degree

• 1 bachelor’s degree, 5 master’s degree and 1 doctoral degree program
• 45% discount for bachelor’s degree students who enroll in a master’s program
• In many cases, transfer credits from previous universities are accepted
• Nursing studies grants are available

Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Nursing

Capella University’s online bachelor’s degree is an RN-BSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor’s Degree of Science in Nursing) program designed specifically to provide registered nurses the knowledge and skills necessary to advance in their careers.  The program courses include multicultural wellness strategies, pharmacology and patient safety, collaborative nursing group processes, leadership and management, and policy, law, ethics, and regulations in professional nursing practice.

Cost and Duration

The course requires 180 credits and is an estimated $58,500 in tuition to complete.

Online Master’s Degrees in Nursing

Five online master’s degree concentrations are available for Capella University students.

Nurse Educator Specialization

This course offers online textbooks and auto-registration for all courses.  This course is ideal for nurses seeking faculty positions, leadership opportunities, or their interest in nursing education.  Courses include nursing theory and concepts in addition to curriculum, design and assessment.

Diabetes Nursing Specialization

Both nurses pursuing careers in diabetes prevention and scholar seeking advanced knowledge in this growing epidemic will find the Diabetes Nursing specialization of particular interest.  The course offers strategies in treating, diagnosing and counseling diabetes patients in addition to five field experiences.

Gerontology Nursing Specialization

Learn how to care for the elderly and aging population through receiving coursework in the physical, emotional and cognitive aspects of aging, technology used to treat the elderly population, and methods in diagnosing and treating elderly patients.

Nursing Leadership and Administration Specialization

Offering a multidisciplinary approach to healthcare management and five field experiences, the Nursing and Leadership and Administration specialization offers courses in healthcare finance management, healthcare innovations and trends, and traits that executives need to manage a health care organization.

Nurse Educator Bridge Specialization

The bridge program is for registered nurses with a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing.  The online course provides the necessary coursework and background to move from their current education to a Nurse Educator master’s specialization.

Cost and Duration

With the exception of the Nurse Educator Bridge specialization that requires 84 credits and approximately $30,000 tuition, the online master’s degree programs require approximately 56 credits to complete and cost about $20,000 tuition.

Online Doctoral Degrees in Nursing

Designed to meet the need for the shortage for Nursing Faculty, Capella University’s online doctoral degree program assists student offers students courses in everything from statistics and quantitative research methods, to grant writing, ethics in nursing, and assessment strategies.  Under the umbrella of the school of education, Capella University’s Nursing Educator program is great for nurses who desire to earn a doctorate and need the flexibility to do so online.  The program requires 10 quarters to complete and tuition is approximately $46,000.

Things to Consider

• North Dakota residents cannot enroll in the RN-BSN program check with the University for additional limitations
• Prices quotes above are tuition fees only.

Faculty

All of Capella University’s faculty hold both degrees and experience in the fields that they teach.  All Capella University faculty are required to undergo specific training related to Capella University’s distinct online teaching method.  Faculty members are available to discuss courses with interested students, prior to enrolling in a program.

Accreditation

–          Capella University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission. 

–          Capella University’s  MSN and BSN programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Address:
Capella University
225 S. Sixth Street
Minneapolis, MN 55402

California University of Pennsylvania

Just 35 miles south of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania based California University of Pennsylvania currently offers over 150 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.  Founded in 1852, the university also offers a variety of extracurricular and athletic opportunities.  Offering degrees in everything from Arabic Language and Culture to Forensics, students are sure to find a program that meets their needs at California University of Pennsylvania.

Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degree

• Scholarships and financial aid are available
• Cost of programs are highly affordable compared to other online nursing degree programs
• Ranked by Princeton Review as one of the best universities in northeast

The courses offered through California University of Pennsylvania’s Global University are offered entirely online though students have the option of attending a traditional graduation ceremony.  Also offered, is a bachelor’s degree of science in nursing, which may be completed at one of three campuses affiliated with the California University of Pennsylvania, though this program is not currently offered online.

Online Master’s Degrees in Nursing

The 100% online Master’s of Science in Nursing Administration and Leadership program offers students the opportunity to complete a 20 month program from anywhere in the world at their convenience.  The course is limited to 35 students ensuring each student receives quality attention.  The course is designed to prepare nurses for leadership in not only hospitals but also ambulatory, rehabilitation and long-term care agencies, corporate settings and the insurance industry.

Description of Curriculum

Students in the master’s degree program take the same courses and are mapped throughout two years.  The course schedule is pre-determined meaning there is no need to plan a course schedule or select classes.  Over two years the courses cover, nursing theory and research, organizational leadership specific to nursing, health policy, disease prevention, financial management, legal aspects of the nursing practice, information systems, and finally the role of a nursing administrator.  The courses are completed by a leadership and administration practicum offered in the final year of the program after all courses are complete.  Though some aspects from the course may apply globally, the course is designed with a focus for those working in the US healthcare system.

Cost and Duration

The program duration is two years, and is approximately $12,500 plus fees and materials.

Things to consider

• A telephone or email interview is required for admission
• The program is not yet accredited by a nursing body
• Students are required to do all necessary work to find a nurse administrator supervisor and practicum

Faculty

Nursing faculty of the California University of Pennsylvania’s Global University are highly qualified with 80% holding a doctoral qualification.  Faculty are required to take an eCertification course to teach online courses and work with an instructional designer to ensure the course is effective for online students.

Accreditation

California University of Pennsylvania is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education

The MSN program has plans to seek accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

The Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing program is accredited by the CCNE

Address:
California University of Pennsylvania
250 University Avenue,
California, PA 15419

California College of San Diego

What is now California College of San Diego began as Scottsdale Education Center in 1971.  After various ownership and name changes, California College of San Diego became part of the California College, Inc. family in 2003, which also includes several colleges in Utah, Idaho, Colorado, Arizona and Wyoming.  The college offers bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in the fields of business, health care, graphic design, and information technology.

Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degree

• 6 bachelor’s and 2 master’s degree programs
• Federal aid and scholarships available
• Students can obtain the use of a free laptop, which they can keep upon graduation

Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Nursing

Nursing

An overview in nursing designed for those seeking graduate education and a wider variety of career prospects alike, this general online bachelor’s course in nursing is specifically for registered nurses.  Course topics examine the psychology and sociology of illness, statistics and critical issues in nursing.

Nursing Administration

Designed specifically for nurses pursuing graduate education or a leadership role, the online program in nursing administration covers topics mentioned in the general nursing degree, but also organizational behavior and biological psychology courses.

Nursing Administration-Clinical Nurse Educator Emphasis

The Clinical Nurse educator program is for nurses seeking advancement in the form of entry-level supervisory opportunities without taking on increased clinical duties.

Nursing Administration-Community Health Nurse Emphasis

For nurses who’d like to work with high-risk, underserved and vulnerable populations within a community, the community health nurse emphasis provides coursework in disaster nursing and epidemiology and community health.

Nursing Administration-Nurse Case Manager Emphasis

Working in a setting such as a long-term care facility or with a small population within a care facility, may require case management.  Courses like managed healthcare and utilization management assist students in the nurse case manager emphasis program plan and manage their caseloads effectively.

Nursing Administration-Nursing Informatics Emphasis

Students in the Nursing Informatics emphasis use technology and evidenced based nursing to assist their colleagues in providing the most effective and up-to-date care to their patients.

Cost and Duration

California College of San Diego’s online bachelor’s degree programs are 20 months and tuition and fees range from $31,000 to $41,000

Online Master’s Degrees in Nursing

Nursing Administration

Health policy, systems of information, and the management of facility resources are the key focus of the online master’s in Nursing Administration program.  Students in this program are required to complete an individual or group thesis project that demonstrates understanding of the program’s learning objectives.

Nursing Education

Learn how to master the difficult challenges and issues that nurses must face then inspire, teach and lead others to do the same in the Nursing Education course.  An individual practicum related to your personal interest and developed in collaboration with a faculty member are a requirement of the course.

Cost and Duration

Online master’s degree programs at California College of San Diego are 15 months and tuition fees are approximately $28,000.

Accreditation

California College of San Diego is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).

Address:
California College of San Diego
2820 Camino Del Rio South Suite 300
San Diego, CA 92108

Baker College

Baker College online has been offering online education since 2006.  With headquarters in Michigan, Baker College is the product of the merger involving Muskegon College and Baker Business University in 1965.  The self-proclaimed largest independent college in Michigan, Baker College stands behind the “Right to Try” philosophy encouraging higher education for all students who have earned a high school diploma, traditional and non-traditional alike. Baker College’s commitment to students from enrollment to graduation is evident in their 97% employment rate of recent available graduates and lifetime employment assistance program to assist their students in securing employment.

Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degree

• Only bachelor’s of science in nursing is offered online
• Available to Registered Nurses in the USA and Canada
• Federal grants, scholarships, and aid available

Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Nursing

Baker College’s online bachelor’s degree program in nursing is ideal for currently registered nurses seeking to advance their career opportunities and knowledge of the nursing field on their own schedule. With a focus on nurses serving in individual and community health organizations, this program serves a wide range of nurses throughout North America.  Though Baker College offers other nursing qualifications, only the online bachelor’s degree in nursing is available online.

Practica

The course requires the following three practica: Community Health Practicum, Leadership Practicum and Nursing Seminar.  Students are required to identify a facility and obtain approval from their course faculty for their practicums.  These practicums require about 8 hours of work per week.  Duties range from teaching to providing program and system alterations.

Description of Coursework

Course topics include anatomy, nutrition, informatics, leadership, global health, informatics, diversity and ethics.  Students also take a mixture of general education courses including psychology, foreign language, humanities and fine arts.

Cost and Duration

Students can transfer credit previously earned through obtaining their nursing license.  The course requires 182 credit hours (based on the quarter system) to complete and is approximately $42,000 to complete.

Things to Consider

• Baker College does not specify holding the common Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accreditation
• Nurses must maintain their license throughout the entire academic program
• Students must meet strict program average GPA requirement (as high as 2.7 B-)
• All students must possess a nursing license in good standing and unencumbered

Faculty

Most faculty providing instruction at Baker College also have work experience in their field. Baker strives to employ PhD holding faculty in all fields.

Accreditation

The college is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

The Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing program is “based on” CCNE standards, but the college gives no direct statement of accreditation by CCNE. Baker College Online is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Address:
Baker College
1050 West Bristol Road
Flint, MI 48507

American Sentinel University

Colorado based American Sentinel University, founded in 2006, is the result of the merger of the American Graduate School of Management, Sentinel University and the American College of Computer and Information Sciences.  The college offers more than 20 degree programs primarily in computer science and information technology, business, and the healthcare field.

Online Nursing Degrees

Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Nursing

The online RN to BSN (Registered Nurse to Bachelor’s Degree of Science in Nursing) program at American Sentinel University is for nurses who desire increased job security and mobility in their profession.  The course requires 30 credits to complete (assuming that you have earned 30 previous credits in an RN program), and tuition is $11,100.  The course is based upon the competencies of the Quality and Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN) project.  The six competencies on which the degree is based are patient-centered care, teamwork and collaboration, evidence-based practice, quality improvement, informatics and safety.

Online Master’s Degrees in Nursing

American Sentinel University students enrolled in the online master’s of science in nursing program must choose one of five specializations in the master’s in nursing course.  Registered Nurses that do not hold a bachelor’s degree may also pursue the RN to MSN course.

MS Nursing-Case Management

The Case Management Specialization is ideal for nurses who desire to start their own business, as the program teaches a balance between patient satisfaction and cost of service delivery.  Students in this course will learn how to meet the growing need for case managers and can also find work in a variety of healthcare facilities.

MS Nursing-Infection, Prevention and Control

Monitoring critical infection indicators, epidemiology and data management are critical components of the infection, prevention and control course specialization.  Students in this course will learn how to monitor and use data to identify healthcare epidemics.

MS Nursing-Nursing Education

The Nursing Education specialization has two tracks, Academic Program Leadership for those interested in leadership posts in academic environments and the Educational Leadership track for students interested in pursuing doctoral studies and becoming a faculty member at a university.  This course is unique in that it offers a $40,000 loan repayment option for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

MS Nursing-Nursing Informatics

Nurses in this course will become specialists in data information systems, managing and protecting patient data, and using the most advanced software and processes for efficient data management.  Nurses earning the online accredited specialization can obtain employment in a variety of healthcare and public health settings.

MS Nursing-Nursing Management and Organizational Leadership

Management of fiscal resources, strategic planning, and management are key components of the online management and organizational leadership specialization.  Students will also develop understanding of labor laws and human resources initiatives.

RN to MSN

The RN to MSN program is designed for nurses with bachelor’s degrees in another field or who hold an associate’s degree to complete their master’s degree in nursing.  Students must choose one of five specializations above.

The online master’s degree courses require 36 credits and range in tuition from $8,400-$16,200 depending on the number of transfer credits.

Online Doctoral Degree in Nursing

Doctor of Nursing Practice Executive Leadership

A doctoral program designed for nurses seeking a position in a high-technology facility, the course is open only to nurses with a minimum of 3 years executive leadership experience or a combination of a master’s degree in nursing and advanced nursing experience.  The DNP program requires 42 credits, and tuition is $23, 940.  This program requires additional fees amounting to over $5,000.

Accreditation

American Sentinel University is accredited by the DETC Accrediting Commission

Online nursing programs at American Sentinel University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)*

*The Doctoral Program and MS Nursing-Infection, Prevention and Control are yet to be accredited by CCNE

Address:
American Sentinel University
2260 South Xanadu Way, Suite 310
Aurora, CO 80014

Olivet Nazarene

Olivet Nazarene University is an accredited Christian liberal arts university in Bourbonnais, Illinois.  Just 50 miles from the hustle and bustle of Chicago, students can enjoy studying in a community setting, and enjoy the big city not too far away.  The university offers a mix of programs for both traditional and non-traditional students alike.

While the undergraduate programs tend to serve the traditional program, graduate and certificate programs offer more flexible scheduling for working adults.  Founded in 1907 to meet the need for Christian education for several Illinois families, the college now offers over 120 areas of study in nursing, education, business, ministry and counseling.

Overview of Programs, Certificates, and Degrees

•  1 bachelor’s, 2 master’s degree programs, and 1 post-master’s certificate that are blended online, campus-based courses
• 1 campus-based doctoral degree offered
• Nursing based scholarships are available to students

Online Nursing and Health Care Degrees Review

Nursing programs at Olivet seek to provide an experiential and leadership experience for students in their nursing programs.  Students can gain leadership experience in several settings while pursuing their studies at Olivet through the Nursing Student in Action officer or mentor.  Practical experience is available through international mission trips and local service projects.  All Olivet programs are offered in combination online and in-person format.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing

The Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing program at Olivet Nazarene University is beneficial both for students pursuing further graduate study and professional advancement.  Courses for the program include Intercultural Nursing, Biblical Hermeneutics (study of interpretation of written texts), Nursing Research, Global Health Care, Families in Crisis, and Issues in Health Care, Law and Ethics.

Duration and Cost

The program can be completed in 21-25months (requires 41-44 credit hours) and assumes that course credits will be transferred in from diploma or associate’s degree programs.  Tuition for the programs range from $23,690 to $27,135.

Online Master’s Degree in Nursing

The Master’s Degree in Nursing program offers a Family Nurse Practitioner, Leader/Manager and Education track for nurses.  Coursework, practicums, critical analysis and evaluation are all part of the master’s degree course.  Core courses include Political and Social Implications of Health Care, Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Moral/Ethical Decision Making and Theoretical Foundations of Nursing.

Duration and Cost

The program can be completed in 18 months (requires 34 credit hours).  Tuition for the program is approximately $21,980.

Online Certificates in Nursing

Registered nurses holding a master’s degree may also participate in the Family Nurse Practitioner Certification program. The program is 13 months long and tuition is $14,245.Courses include Advanced Pathophysiology, Advanced Pharmacology, and a Family Nurse Practitioner Practicum.

Faculty

Most instructors at Olivet Nazarene University hold master’s and doctoral level degrees in nursing

Things to consider:

• All degrees have an in person requirement, though most meetings are online
• Costs above include tuition only and not additional fees and costs

Accreditation

Olivet Nazarene University is accredited to offer associate, baccalaureate, master’s, and doctorate degrees by the Higher Learning Commission

Nursing programs at Olivet Nazarene University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Address:
Olivet Nazarene University
One University Avenue
Bourbonnais, Illinois 60914-2345