How to Decide Which Nursing Program is Right for You?

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The Practical Aspects of Nursing

Our economy has suffered a shake-down, with job losses suffered in an enormous number of fields, driving many students to consider what type of higher education would create for them the greatest security in pursuing a career. The medical profession is one of the few areas that has not only been largely unaffected by the destabilized economy, but continues to increase in demand for qualified practitioners. At a twenty-six percent expectancy of continued growth through the year 2020, nursing has one of the highest demand rates of all other professions.

Nursing is a career you can prepare for while still in high-school, by centering your electives around biology and chemistry courses, as well as keeping a high grade level in all other sciences and mathematics. After two years of advanced courses in the academics, students in a nursing program generally have the requisites to apply for licensing as a practical nurse. Although there are many who enjoy their job duties as an LPN, working in a clinical setting, rehabilitation or outpatient facilities, as home care providers and in assisted living programs, there are also those who use their qualifications for part-time work and continue their studies to meet the requisites for an RN.

What a Four Year Study Course can Mean

Becoming an RN has numerous advantages for those who wish to advance their careers in nursing. The registered nursing program go beyond the LPN program to include advanced studies in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, psychology and chemistry. Students are prepared for more crucial decision-making positions. With greater authority comes greater responsibility and career options that are available only to those who are registered nurses.

Many students feel if they are going to pursue a registered nursing program, the most practical application for this is acquiring their Bachelor of Science in Nursing. A Bachelor of Science is also a four-year study course and can be acquired as a second-degree program for science majors. A BSN will prepare you for administrative duties. In a BSN program, you will complete courses in leadership training, physical and social sciences and communication. The salary for registered nurses is higher compared to LPN’s, with more opportunities for going into a specialized field.

Accelerated Nursing Programs

The accelerated nursing program is designed for those who already have obtain their RN certification, but want to pursue a higher degree, or for those who have completed a bachelor degree program and would like a secondary degree in nursing. The twelve months program concentrates on the specific knowledge base required for obtaining a BSN after the standard core classes have been covered.

When Should You Pursue a Master’s Degree Program in Nursing

The average person to enter a nursing school does not have a clear idea of a specific field they wish to enter beyond the practice of care giving to others. It’s not until they have begun taking their courses of study or working in a clinical setting that they realize there is a specific area of study they enjoy most. They may discover they enjoy working in a laboratory, as a surgeon’s assistant or in pediatrics. Some areas of specialization require a Master’s Degree, such as Nurse Anesthetist, Nurse Educator and Nurse Practitioner.

When pursuing a Master’s Degree program, it’s important to make sure the school you are considering offers degrees in the specialty field you’ve chosen. One of the best ways to ensure you are entering a school that provides quality-nursing program is to look for accreditation. Check with the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC), which is considered one the most highly regarded accrediting agencies. Their online website will provide you with accredited schools.

Gaining popularity because of the advantages in taking classes from home and studying at your own pace, are the online study program. Although you will still have to meet the criteria for working in a clinical setting, most of your courses can be taken online.

Nursing has a lot of practicality in terms of preparing yourself for a professional career. The job demand is high. You may complete the requisites for licensing as a practical nurse in as little as two years, and there are numerous programs that will allow you to study for a degree or licensing as a registered nurse while you continue to work. Also, available are a number of grants and scholarships.

Nursing however, also requires a great deal of dedication and commitment to the wellbeing of others. It takes a special personality to become a nurse, someone who will accept long hours of labor, is attentive to the needs of others, is well organized, remember fine details and aware of the impact of care giving on society.