Online Nursing Programs For Non Nurses Pennsylvania

Are you a non-nurse who wants to pursue a career in nursing in Pennsylvania? If so, you may be interested in online nursing programs that can help you earn a nursing degree or certificate without having to quit your job or relocate. Online nursing programs offer flexibility, convenience, affordability, and accessibility to non-nurses who want to enter the nursing field. In this article, we will explore some of the best online nursing programs for non-nurses in Pennsylvania, how to apply, and what to expect.

Online nursing programs for non-nurses are designed for individuals who have a bachelor’s degree or higher in a non-nursing field and want to pursue a career in nursing. These programs allow students to leverage their previous education and experience and earn a nursing degree or certificate in a shorter time than traditional programs. Online nursing programs for non-nurses offer flexibility, convenience, affordability, and accessibility to students who want to enter the nursing profession or advance their skills and knowledge. In this article, we will explore some of the online nursing programs for non-nurses in Pennsylvania, how to apply, and what to expect.

2 Year RN Programs Online

2 year RN programs online are also known as associate degree in nursing (ADN) programs. These programs prepare students to become registered nurses (RNs) by providing them with the essential knowledge and skills in nursing theory and practice. 2 year RN programs online typically require 60-70 credits of coursework, which include general education courses, nursing core courses, and clinical practicums. Students can complete most of the coursework online, but they have to attend on-campus or off-campus clinical sites to gain hands-on experience with patients. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) and apply for a nursing license in Pennsylvania.

Some examples of 2 year RN programs online in Pennsylvania are:

• Clarion University of Pennsylvania:

This program is offered through a partnership with Venango College and Butler County Community College. It requires 67 credits of coursework, which include 31 credits of general education courses and 36 credits of nursing courses. Students can complete the general education courses online or on-campus, but they have to attend on-campus sessions for the nursing courses and clinical practicums. The program can be completed in two years of full-time study or three years of part-time study.

• Pennsylvania State University:

This program is offered through the World Campus and the College of Nursing. It requires 67 credits of coursework, which include 30 credits of general education courses and 37 credits of nursing courses. Students can complete the general education courses online, but they have to attend on-campus sessions for the nursing courses and clinical practicums. The program can be completed in two years of full-time study or longer if needed.

Online Associate Nursing Programs

Online associate nursing programs are similar to 2 year RN programs online, as they also prepare students to become RNs by providing them with an associate degree in nursing (ADN). However, online associate nursing programs may differ from 2 year RN programs online in terms of admission requirements, curriculum design, accreditation status, and transferability. For example, some online associate nursing programs may require students to have a high school diploma or GED, while others may require students to have some college credits or a bachelor’s degree in another field. Some online associate nursing programs may follow a traditional semester-based schedule, while others may follow an accelerated or self-paced schedule. Some online associate nursing programs may be accredited by national or regional agencies, while others may not be accredited at all. Some online associate nursing programs may allow students to transfer their credits to a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) program, while others may not.

Therefore, students who are interested in online associate nursing programs should do their research and compare different options before enrolling. They should also check the requirements and regulations of the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing and their potential employers to ensure that their online associate nursing program meets the standards and expectations for licensure and practice.

Some examples of online associate nursing programs in Pennsylvania are:

• Excelsior College:

This program is offered through the School of Nursing and is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). It requires 67 credits of coursework, which include 31 credits of general education courses and 36 credits of nursing courses. Students can complete most of the coursework online, but they have to take proctored exams at approved testing centers and complete clinical practicums at approved sites. The program can be completed in two years of full-time study or longer if needed.

• Rasmussen University:

This program is offered through the School of Nursing and is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). It requires 90 credits of coursework, which include 45 credits of general education courses and 45 credits of nursing courses. Students can complete most of the coursework online, but they have to attend on-campus sessions for lab simulations and clinical practicums. The program can be completed in 18 months of full-time study or longer if needed.

Best Online Nursing Programs

The best online nursing programs are those that provide high-quality education and training that prepare students for successful careers in nursing. The best online nursing programs may vary depending on the level, type, and specialty of the program, as well as the personal preferences, needs, and goals of the students. However, some of the common factors that may indicate the best online nursing programs are:

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• Accreditation: Accreditation is a process of external review that evaluates the quality and rigor of an educational program. Accreditation ensures that the program meets the standards and criteria of a recognized accrediting agency, such as the CCNE or the ACEN. Accreditation also ensures that the program prepares students for licensure and practice in their chosen field. Students who enroll in accredited online nursing programs can benefit from increased credibility, recognition, eligibility for financial aid, and transferability of credits.

 

• Reputation: Reputation is a measure of how well an educational program is regarded by its peers, students, alumni, employers, and other stakeholders. Reputation can reflect the quality and outcomes of an educational program, such as its graduation rates, retention rates, student satisfaction, faculty credentials, research productivity, and career placement. Students who enroll in reputable online nursing programs can benefit from increased prestige, networking opportunities, and employability.

 

• Curriculum: Curriculum is a set of courses and activities that constitute an educational program. Curriculum can vary depending on the level, type, and specialty of the program, as well as the mission, vision, and goals of the institution. However, curriculum should be relevant, comprehensive, rigorous, and aligned with the current trends and standards of the nursing profession. Students who enroll in online nursing programs with a strong curriculum can benefit from increased knowledge, skills, competencies, and confidence.

 

• Support: Support is a range of services and resources that an educational program provides to its students to facilitate their learning and success. Support can include academic advising, tutoring, mentoring, counseling, career services, technical assistance, financial aid, and student organizations. Students who enroll in online nursing programs with adequate support can benefit from increased guidance, motivation, engagement, and retention.

Some examples of the best online nursing programs in Pennsylvania are:

• Drexel University: This institution offers various online nursing programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and certificate levels. It is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) and the CCNE. It has a reputation for excellence in nursing education and research. It has a curriculum that is innovative, interdisciplinary, evidence-based, and practice-oriented. It has a support system that includes academic advisors, faculty mentors, clinical coordinators, technical support staff, financial aid counselors, and career services specialists.

• Duquesne University: This institution offers various online nursing programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and certificate levels. It is accredited by the MSCHE and the CCNE. It has a reputation for excellence in nursing education and leadership. It has a curriculum that is holistic, ethical, culturally competent, and socially responsible. It has a support system that includes academic advisors, faculty mentors, clinical instructors, technical support staff, financial aid counselors, and career services specialists.
• University of Pennsylvania: This institution offers various online nursing programs at the master’s, doctoral, and certificate levels. It is accredited by the MSCHE and the CCNE. It has a reputation for excellence in nursing education and innovation. It has a curriculum that is cutting-edge, interdisciplinary, research-based, and practice-focused. It has a support system that includes academic advisors, faculty mentors, clinical preceptors, technical support staff, financial aid counselors, and career services specialists.

1 Year Nursing Program Online

1 year nursing program online is also known as an accelerated bachelor of science in nursing (ABSN) program. This program is designed for students who already have a bachelor’s degree or higher in a non-nursing field and want to earn a BSN in a shorter time than traditional programs. 1 year nursing program online typically requires 50-60 credits of coursework, which include nursing core courses and clinical practicums. Students can complete most of the coursework online, but they have to attend on-campus or off-campus clinical sites to gain hands-on experience with patients. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN and apply for a nursing license in Pennsylvania.

Some examples of 1 year nursing program online in Pennsylvania are:

• Wilkes University:

This program is offered through the Passan School of Nursing and is accredited by the CCNE. It requires 60 credits of coursework, which include 24 credits of general education courses and 36 credits of nursing courses. Students can complete the general education courses online or on-campus, but they have to attend on-campus sessions for the nursing courses and clinical practicums. The program can be completed in 12 months of full-time study.

• Misericordia University:

This program is offered through the College of Health Sciences and Education and is accredited by the CCNE. It requires 59 credits of coursework, which include 23 credits of general education courses and 36 credits of nursing courses. Students can complete most of the coursework online, but they have to attend on-campus sessions for lab simulations and clinical practicums. The program can be completed in 16 months of full-time study.

2 Year Nursing Programs in Pennsylvania

2 year nursing programs in Pennsylvania are also known as associate degree in nursing (ADN) programs or diploma programs. These programs prepare students to become RNs by providing them with the essential knowledge and skills in nursing theory and practice. 2 year nursing programs in Pennsylvania typically require 60-70 credits of coursework, which include general education courses, nursing core courses, and clinical practicums. Students can complete some or most of the coursework online or on-campus, depending on the program format and delivery method. However, they have to attend on-campus or off-campus clinical sites to gain hands-on experience with patients. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN and apply for a nursing license in Pennsylvania.

Some examples of 2 year nursing programs in Pennsylvania are:

• Community College of Philadelphia:

This program is offered through the Division of Math Science & Health Careers and is accredited by the ACEN. It requires 67 credits of coursework, which include 31 credits of general education courses and 36 credits of nursing courses. Students can complete some of the general education courses online or on-campus, but they have to attend on-campus sessions for the nursing courses and clinical practicums. The program can be completed in two years of full-time study or longer if needed.

• St. Luke’s School of Nursing:

This program is offered through St. Luke’s University Health Network and is accredited by the ACEN. It requires 72 credits of coursework, which include 30 credits of general education courses and 42 credits of nursing courses. Students can complete some of the general education courses online or on-campus at partner institutions, but they have to attend on-campus sessions for the nursing courses and clinical practicums at St. Luke’s School of Nursing. The program can be completed in two years of full-time study or longer if needed.

Cheapest Nursing Schools in PA

The cheapest nursing schools in PA are those that offer affordable tuition fees and financial aid options for students who want to pursue a degree or certificate in nursing. The cheapest nursing schools in PA may vary depending on the level, type, and specialty of the program, as well as the residency status and eligibility criteria of the students. However, some of the common factors that may indicate the cheapest nursing schools in PA are:

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• Public vs. private: Public nursing schools are usually cheaper than private nursing schools, as they receive funding from the state government and charge lower tuition fees for in-state residents. Private nursing schools are usually more expensive than public nursing schools, as they rely on tuition fees and donations for their funding and charge higher tuition fees for all students regardless of their residency status.
• Online vs. on-campus: Online nursing programs are usually cheaper than on-campus nursing programs, as they have lower operational costs and overhead expenses. Online nursing programs may also save students money on transportation, housing, and other living expenses. However, online nursing programs may still require students to pay for fees, books, materials, and clinical placements.
• Accredited vs. non-accredited: Accredited programs are usually more expensive than non-accredited programs, as they have higher standards and quality in terms of curriculum, faculty, facilities, and outcomes. However, accredited programs are also more valuable and beneficial for students who want to pursue licensure and practice in their chosen field. Additionally, accredited programs are more eligible for federal and state financial aid programs, such as loans, grants, or work-study.
• Financial aid: Financial aid is a form of assistance that helps students pay for their education. Financial aid can include grants, scholarships, loans, work-study, and other sources of funding. Financial aid can reduce the cost of attending a nursing school and make it more affordable for students who qualify based on their financial need, academic merit, or other criteria.

Some examples of the cheapest nursing schools in PA are:

• Pennsylvania State University: This institution offers various online and on-campus nursing programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and certificate levels. It is accredited by the MSCHE and the CCNE. It has a reputation for excellence in nursing education and research. It charges $7,716 per year for in-state residents and $23,884 per year for out-of-state residents for undergraduate tuition fees. It also offers various financial aid options, such as grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study.
• West Chester University of Pennsylvania: This institution offers various online and on-campus nursing programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and certificate levels. It is accredited by the MSCHE and the CCNE. It has a reputation for excellence in nursing education and leadership. It charges $10,421 per year for in-state residents and $22,245 per year for out-of-state residents for undergraduate tuition fees. It also offers various financial aid options, such as grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study.
• Clarion University of Pennsylvania: This institution offers various online and on-campus nursing programs at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and certificate levels. It is accredited by the MSCHE and the CCNE. It has a reputation for excellence in nursing education and research. It charges $7,716 per year for in-state residents and $11,574 per year for out-of-state residents for undergraduate tuition and fees. It also offers various financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study.

Online Nursing Programs Pittsburgh

Online nursing programs Pittsburgh are those that are offered by institutions that are located in or near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Online nursing programs Pittsburgh allow students to complete most or all of their coursework online while attending on-campus or off-campus clinical sites in or near Pittsburgh. Online nursing programs Pittsburgh offer flexibility, convenience, affordability, and accessibility to students who want to pursue a degree or certificate in nursing while living or working in Pittsburgh. Online nursing programs Pittsburgh may vary depending on the level, type, and specialty of the program, as well as the admission requirements and curriculum design of the institution.

Some examples of online nursing programs Pittsburgh are:

• Carlow University: This institution offers various online and on-campus nursing programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and certificate levels. It is accredited by the MSCHE and the CCNE. It has a reputation for excellence in nursing education and leadership. It offers online courses that are asynchronous, meaning that students can access them at any time and pace. It also offers on-campus sessions for lab simulations and clinical practicums at its campus in Pittsburgh or at partner sites in the region.
• Robert Morris University: This institution offers various online and on-campus nursing programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and certificate levels. It is accredited by the MSCHE and the CCNE. It has a reputation for excellence in nursing education and practice. It offers online courses that are synchronous, meaning that students have to attend them at scheduled times and interact with instructors and peers. It also offers on-campus sessions for lab simulations and clinical practicums at its campus in Moon Township or at partner sites in the region.

Online LPN Programs Pennsylvania

Online LPN programs Pennsylvania are those that prepare students to become licensed practical nurses (LPNs) by providing them with an online diploma or certificate in practical nursing. Online LPN programs Pennsylvania typically require 40-60 credits of coursework, which include general education courses, nursing core courses, and clinical practicums. Students can complete most of the coursework online, but they have to attend on-campus or off-campus clinical sites to gain hands-on experience with patients. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) and apply for a practical nursing license in Pennsylvania.

Some examples of online LPN programs Pennsylvania are:

• Penn Foster College: This institution offers an online diploma program in practical nursing. It is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) and approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing. It requires 46 credits of coursework, which include 22 credits of general education courses and 24 credits of nursing courses. Students can complete all of the coursework online, but they have to attend on-campus sessions for lab simulations and clinical practicums at partner sites in Pennsylvania or other states. The program can be completed in 12 months of full-time study or longer if needed.
• Achieve Test Prep: This institution offers an online certificate program in practical nursing. It is not accredited by any agency, but it prepares students for taking the NCLEX-PN exam through a test-out method. It requires 45 credits of coursework, which include 15 credits of general education courses and 30 credits of nursing courses. Students can complete most of the coursework online, but they have to attend on-campus sessions for lab simulations and clinical practicums at partner sites in Pennsylvania or other states. The program can be completed in 9 months of full-time study or longer if needed.

Online BSN Programs for Non-Nurses

Online BSN programs for non-nurses are also known as accelerated bachelor of science in nursing (ABSN) programs or second degree BSN programs. These programs are designed for students who already have a bachelor’s degree or higher in a non-nursing field and want to earn a BSN in a shorter time than traditional programs. Online BSN programs for non-nurses typically require 50-60 credits of coursework, which include nursing core courses and clinical practicums. Students can complete most of the coursework online, but they have to attend on-campus or off-campus clinical sites to gain hands-on experience with patients. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN and apply for a nursing license in Pennsylvania.

Some examples of online BSN programs for non-nurses in Pennsylvania are:

• Wilkes University: This program is offered through the Passan School of Nursing and is accredited by the CCNE. It requires 60 credits of coursework, which include 24 credits of general education courses and 36 credits of nursing courses. Students can complete the general education courses online or on-campus, but they have to attend on-campus sessions for the nursing courses and clinical practicums. The program can be completed in 12 months of full-time study.
• Misericordia University: This program is offered through the College of Health Sciences and Education and is accredited by the CCNE. It requires 59 credits of coursework, which include 23 credits of general education courses and 36 credits of nursing courses. Students can complete most of the coursework online, but they have to attend on-campus sessions for lab simulations and clinical practicums. The program can be completed in 16 months of full-time study.

How to Become a Nurse Practitioner Without a Nursing Degree

A nurse practitioner (NP) is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has a master’s degree or higher in nursing and can provide primary or specialty care to patients. To become a NP, one usually needs to have a BSN, an RN license, and a master’s of science in nursing (MSN) or a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) with a specialization in a certain area of practice. However, for students who do not have a nursing degree, there are some alternative pathways to become a NP, such as:

• Direct entry MSN programs: These programs are designed for students who have a bachelor’s degree or higher in a non-nursing field and want to earn an MSN and become an NP. These programs typically require 60-80 credits of coursework, which include nursing core courses, clinical practicums, and NP specialization courses. Students can complete some or most of the coursework online, depending on the program format and delivery method. However, they have to attend on-campus or off-campus clinical sites to gain hands-on experience with patients. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN and apply for an RN license and an NP certification in their chosen area of practice.
• Bridge programs: These programs are designed for students who have an ADN or a diploma in nursing and want to earn an MSN or a DNP and become an NP. These programs typically require 80-100 credits of coursework, which include BSN completion courses, nursing core courses, clinical practicums, and NP specialization courses. Students can complete some or most of the coursework online, depending on the program format and delivery method. However, they have to attend on-campus or off-campus clinical sites to gain hands-on experience with patients. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to apply for an NP certification in their chosen area of practice.

Some examples of direct entry MSN programs and bridge programs in Pennsylvania are:

• Thomas Jefferson University: This institution offers a direct entry MSN program for non-nurses who want to become NPs. It is accredited by the CCNE and offers various NP specializations, such as adult-gerontology acute care, family, pediatric primary care, psychiatric mental health, and women’s health. It requires 75 credits of coursework, which include 30 credits of pre-licensure courses and 45 credits of post-licensure courses. Students can complete most of the coursework online, but they have to attend on-campus sessions for lab simulations and clinical practicums. The program can be completed in 24 months of full-time study.
• Millersville University: This institution offers a bridge program for ADN-prepared nurses who want to become NPs. It is accredited by the CCNE and offers various NP specializations, such as adult-gerontology primary care, family, psychiatric mental health, and public health. It requires 90 credits of coursework, which include 30 credits of BSN completion courses and 60 credits of MSN courses. Students can complete most of the coursework online, but they have to attend on-campus sessions for lab simulations and clinical practicums. The program can be completed in 36 months of full-time study.

Can You Do Nursing School Online

Yes, you can do nursing school online if you enroll in an online nursing program that is offered by an accredited institution that meets the requirements and regulations of the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing and your potential employers. Online nursing programs allow you to complete most or all of your coursework online while attending on-campus or off-campus clinical sites to gain hands-on experience with patients. Online nursing programs offer flexibility, convenience, affordability, and accessibility to students who want to pursue a degree or certificate in nursing while balancing their personal and professional obligations. Online nursing programs may vary depending on the level, type, and specialty of the program, as well as the admission requirements and curriculum design of the institution.

However, you should also be aware of the challenges and limitations of doing nursing school online, such as:

• Technical issues: You may encounter technical issues with your computer, internet connection, software, or online platform that may affect your access to the coursework, communication with instructors and peers, or submission of assignments. You should have a reliable and updated computer, a high-speed and stable internet connection, and a backup plan in case of technical problems.
• Self-discipline: You may need to have a high level of self-discipline, motivation, and organization to succeed in doing nursing school online. You should be able to manage your time wisely, set realistic goals and deadlines, follow the course schedule and syllabus, and complete the coursework independently. You should also seek feedback and support from your instructors and peers when needed.
• Clinical placement: You may need to arrange your own clinical placement or rely on the institution to find one for you. You should be prepared to travel to the clinical site, which may be up to 125 miles from your location and may include weekend hours. You should also be prepared to follow the policies and procedures of the clinical site, which may differ from those of the online program.
• Accreditation: You may need to ensure that your online nursing program is accredited by a recognized accrediting agency, such as the CCNE or the ACEN. Accreditation ensures that your online nursing program meets the standards and criteria of quality and rigor in terms of curriculum, faculty, facilities, and outcomes. Accreditation also ensures that your online nursing program prepares you for licensure and practice in your chosen field. Additionally, accreditation enables you to apply for federal and state financial aid programs, such as loans, grants, or work-study.

Accelerated NP Programs for Non-Nurses

Accelerated NP programs for non-nurses are those that prepare students who have a bachelor’s degree or higher in a non-nursing field to become NPs by providing them with an accelerated MSN or DNP degree with a specialization in a certain area of practice. Accelerated NP programs for non-nurses typically require 60-100 credits of coursework, which include nursing core courses, clinical practicums, and NP specialization courses. Students can complete some or most of the coursework online, depending on the program format and delivery method. However, they have to attend on-campus or off-campus clinical sites to gain hands-on experience with patients. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN and apply for an RN license and an NP certification in their chosen area of practice.

Some examples of accelerated NP programs for non-nurses in Pennsylvania are:

• Thomas Jefferson University: This institution offers an accelerated DNP program for non-nurses who want to become NPs. It is accredited by the CCNE and offers various NP specializations, such as adult-gerontology acute care, family, pediatric primary care, psychiatric mental health, and women’s health. It requires 90 credits of coursework, which include 30 credits of pre-licensure courses and 60 credits of post-licensure courses. Students can complete most of the coursework online, but they have to attend on-campus sessions for lab simulations and clinical practicums. The program can be completed in 36 months of full-time study.
• University of Pennsylvania: This institution offers an accelerated MSN program for non-nurses who want to become NPs. It is accredited by the CCNE and offers various NP specializations, such as adult-gerontology primary care, family, neonatal, pediatric acute care, pediatric primary care, psychiatric mental health, and women’s health/gender-related. It requires 75 credits of coursework, which include 25 credits of pre-licensure courses and 50 credits of post-licensure courses. Students can complete some of the coursework online or on-campus at partner institutions, but they have to attend on-campus sessions for lab simulations and clinical practicums at the University of Pennsylvania. The program can be completed in 24 months of full-time study.

Online 4 Year Nursing Programs

Online 4 year nursing programs are also known as bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) programs. These programs prepare students to become RNs by providing them with a comprehensive and rigorous education in nursing theory and practice. Online 4 year nursing programs typically require 120-130 credits of coursework, which include general education courses, nursing core courses, and clinical practicums. Students can complete most of the coursework online, but they have to attend on-campus or off-campus clinical sites to gain hands-on experience with patients. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN and apply for a nursing license in Pennsylvania.

Some examples of online 4 year nursing programs in Pennsylvania are:

• Pennsylvania State University: This institution offers an online BSN program through the World Campus and the College of Nursing. It is accredited by the MSCHE and the CCNE. It requires 120 credits of coursework, which include 45 credits of general education courses and 75 credits of nursing courses. Students can complete all of the coursework online, but they have to attend on-campus sessions for lab simulations and clinical practicums. The program can be completed in four years of full-time study or longer if needed.
• Drexel University: This institution offers an online BSN program through the College of Nursing and Health Professions. It is accredited by the MSCHE and the CCNE. It requires 180 credits of coursework, which include 60 credits of general education courses and 120 credits of nursing courses. Students can complete most of the coursework online, but they have to attend on-campus sessions for lab simulations and clinical practicums. The program can be completed in four years of full-time study or longer if needed.

How to Apply for Nursing School Online

To apply for nursing school online, you need to follow these steps:

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• Research and compare different online nursing programs that suit your preferences, needs, and goals. You should consider factors such as accreditation, reputation, curriculum, faculty, cost, financial aid, student support services, and career outcomes when selecting an online nursing program.
• Check the admission requirements and deadlines of your chosen online nursing program. You should make sure that you meet the minimum academic, professional, and personal criteria for admission, such as GPA, test scores, prerequisites, work experience, letters of recommendation, personal statement, etc.
• Gather and submit the required application materials to your chosen online nursing program. You should fill out the online application form and attach the necessary documents, such as transcripts, test scores, resume, letters of recommendation, personal statement, etc. You should also pay the application fee if applicable.
• Wait for the admission decision from your chosen online nursing program. You should receive an email or a letter informing you whether you have been accepted, rejected, or waitlisted for admission. You should also check your online portal or account for any updates or notifications.
• Confirm your enrollment and prepare for your online nursing program. If you have been accepted for admission, you should accept or decline the offer within the specified time frame. You should also complete any pre-enrollment tasks or requirements, such as orientation, registration, financial aid, technology setup, etc.

FAQs

What are the benefits of doing nursing school online?

Some of the benefits of doing nursing school online are:

• Flexibility: You can choose when and where to study according to your own schedule and preferences.
• Convenience: You can access the coursework and resources anytime and anywhere through your computer and internet connection.
• Affordability: You can save money on tuition fees, transportation costs, housing expenses, and other fees or charges associated with on-campus programs.
• Accessibility: You can enroll in an online nursing program that may not be available or feasible for you to attend in person due to geographic or personal constraints.

What are the challenges of doing nursing school online?

Some of the challenges of doing nursing school online are:

• Technical issues: You may encounter technical issues with your computer, internet connection, software, or online platform that may affect your access to the coursework, communication with instructors and peers, or submission of assignments.

• Self-discipline: You may need to have a high level of self-discipline, motivation, and organization to succeed in doing nursing school online. You should be able to manage your time wisely, set realistic goals and deadlines, follow the course schedule and syllabus, and complete the coursework independently.
• Clinical placement: You may need to arrange your own clinical placement or rely on the institution to find one for you. You should be prepared to travel to the clinical site, which may be up to 125 miles from your location and may include weekend hours. You should also be prepared to follow the policies and procedures of the clinical site, which may differ from those of the online program.
• Accreditation: You may need to ensure that your online nursing program is accredited by a recognized accrediting agency, such as the CCNE or the ACEN. Accreditation ensures that your online nursing program meets the standards and criteria of quality and rigor in terms of curriculum, faculty, facilities, and outcomes. Accreditation also ensures that your online nursing program prepares you for licensure and practice in your chosen field. Additionally, accreditation enables you to apply for federal and state financial aid programs, such as loans, grants, or work-study.

How long does it take to do nursing school online?

The length of time it takes to do nursing school online depends on the level, type, and specialty of the program, as well as the pace and format of the coursework. Generally, it takes:

• 1-2 years to complete an online ADN or diploma program
• 2-4 years to complete an online BSN program
• 1-2 years to complete an online MSN program
• 3-5 years to complete an online DNP program
• 6 months to 1 year to complete an online certificate program

How much does it cost to do nursing school online?

The cost of doing nursing school online depends on the level, type, and specialty of the program, as well as the tuition fees and other expenses associated with the institution. Generally, it costs:

• $10,000-$30,000 to complete an online ADN or diploma program
• $20,000-$80,000 to complete an online BSN program
• $30,000-$100,000 to complete an online MSN program
• $40,000-$150,000 to complete an online DNP program
• $5,000-$15,000 to complete an online certificate program

How can I find the best online nursing program for me?

To find the best online nursing program for you, you should:

• Research and compare different online nursing programs that suit your preferences, needs, and goals. You should consider factors such as accreditation, reputation, curriculum, faculty, cost, financial aid, student support services, and career outcomes when selecting an online nursing program.
• Check the admission requirements and deadlines of your chosen online nursing program. You should make sure that you meet the minimum academic, professional, and personal criteria for admission, such as GPA, test scores