Online Nursing Degree Programs FAQS

About Online Nursing Degree Programs

Rapid changes in healthcare delivery and shifting market demands have made learning a lifelong necessity for working nurses seeking to keep their educational preparation and career skills marketable. Distance learning programs used to consist of dull methods that offered little or no interactivity between the student or faculty, such as correspondence courses or video conferencing. Distance learners could pick up the odd course or two that way but earning a degree by distance education was unheard of. Thankfully, today`s distance education bears no resemblance to the distance learning methods of the past. State-of-the-art technology has transformed distance learning by making engaging and highly interactive education available 24 hours a day, and seven days a week on the internet. Online learners can pick and choose their choice of personal enrichment classes, continuing education courses, career training programs, or college degree programs that can be taken online whenever the student finds the time. Thousands of working adults are taking advantage of online education to earn degrees from a growing number of accredited colleges and universities offering highly regarded online degree programs. No matter where you live or what your work schedule is, you can improve your skills, your income and your career mobility by earning your degree online. If you`re a newcomer to online education this section will help you understand how e-learning works and answer some of your questions.

1. Online Nursing Program Eligibility

Although degrees in Healthcare Administration and many Allied Health professions may be earned online, nursing degree programs are NOT available online for those with no prior healthcare degree. Applicants without a current LPN, Paramedic, CRT, Associate Degree in Nursing, or BSN degree will need to attend and graduate from a campus based nursing school before becoming eligible for online nursing programs. Local campus based education is available for programs ranging from certified nursing assistant, to Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) through Doctor of Nursing Science, and hundreds of allied health specialties as well. Search campus based healthcare programs.

What are the admission requirements for online nursing programs?

Online nursing degree programs generally have the same admission requirements as standard credit-granting courses on campus. Each college or university has its own criteria. Variables may include such factors as GPA, prior degree, and completion of standardized tests for admissions to graduate programs, while others might not require admissions tests. Online nursing degree students are not confined by geographic constraints and enjoy the huge advantage of having a much broader selection of schools available to them to choose from. Applicants for online nursing degree programs would be well advised to request information from several schools offering their desired degree in order to compare admission criteria and select the one that`s best for them.

How do online nursing classes work?

Online courses usually follow a schedule and syllabus just like campus based courses do, but instead of having to be physically present to attend lecture at a fixed time, online nursing students can access a virtual classroom using an internet connection, anytime and anywhere it`s convenient for them and do their course work whenever their schedule permits. Round-the-clock access to the virtual classroom allows students to download assignments, watch video lectures, instructional films, read and contribute to class discussions, review faculty feedback, and communicate directly with fellow classmates and instructors at their own pace and convenience. Instructors set up assignment schedules, as well as post grades for each student in the virtual classroom. Many students report that the online learning environment is so much more more stimulating than traditional classrooms that they actually participate more, enjoy themselves more, and learn more! To learn more read Introduction to Online Nursing Classrooms

Is an online nursing degree as good as one earned on campus?

YES! Online nursing degrees earned from accredited colleges are universities are widely accepted and are every bit as good as, respected, and sometimes even more valuable than the same degree earned on campus. In fact, there is usually no distinction on the diploma you receive at graduation that indicates whether graduates attended campus or online programs. More than 4,000,000 students are pursuing degrees through online learning programs. Wouldn`t you like to join them?

What if I need help with my assignments?

This is where online education really has a big advantage over campus based programs because online nursing students have more interaction with faculty than their on-campus peers. You won`t be stuck needing to make an appointment to meet with your professor during posted office hours when you study online! Interaction between students and faculty is highly encouraged by online schools and online nursing students can interact and network with faculty and fellow students through live chat rooms, forum postings, e-mails and phone calls. In fact, some online universities assign group projects in order to encourage collaboration and networking which provides support when you need help as well as helps to turn virtual classmates into real world friends.

Are online students eligible for financial aid?

In order to be eligible to offer Federal Financial Aid programs to students a college or university needs to be accredited by agencies recognized by the US Department of Education. Eligible colleges and universities can extend the same financial aid to online students that they offer to traditional students. As an online nursing student you may also be eligible for scholarships, grants, fellowships and employer tuition assistance benefits if you qualify. Explore Financial Aid For Online Students for additional scholarships, student loans and financial aid information. RNDegrees.net strives to ensure that all colleges and universities featured on this site are fully accredited by agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and/or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

What is accreditation?

Accreditation is a process in which a college or university must pass certain criteria set by a governing agency. This process helps to insure the institution meets the standards of that governing body, by providing high educational goals and standards. Attending an accredited college or university is essential in order to qualify for student aid programs and to receive a degree that has value.

What are some of the advantages of earning my nursing degree online?

Earning your Nursing degree online allows you to attend classes at times that are most convenient for you, enabling you to advance your education and career while maintaining your other responsibilities. Other advantages include:

• Flexible Schedule - Learn at your pace and place
• No waiting to begin classes
• Convenience of studying and doing course work when you want to, 24/7
• Increased ability to interact with faculty and fellow students
• Avoid age related concerns adult learners in traditional programs cope with
• Online courses allow you to be more independent
• Wider choice of programs than may be available locally
• Wider choice of schools available than are available locally
• Wider school selection helps students match cost per credit hour to budget
• Ability to keep working and earning while you learn
• No traffic, commuting, parking, or child care concerns
• May be able to graduate sooner
• May cost less than traditional campus-based schools
• More accommodating for students with handicaps
• Virtual classmates often develop into network of real life friendships
• Proves to employers that you are self motivated, able to work independently, and computer savvy.

What are some disadvantages of taking online courses?

Vince Lombardi once said, "The quality of a person`s life is in direct proportion to their commitment to excellence, regardless of their chosen field of endeavor." If you want to succeed in online learning you need to be committed, motivated, and self-disciplined because you will be the one responsible for setting the pace of your learning experience and assignment completion. You will be responsible for signing into your online classroom and keeping up. You will be responsible for prioritizing your time so that you make time for your online classes. As with everything else of value in life, you get out of it what you put into it.

Get Ahead - Advance Your Nursing Career With An Online Nursing Degree

The College Network

Online

Start your nursing career with The College Network. Earn your NLNAC/CCNE Accredited nursing degree online from one of our partner universities: Regis University, Indiana State University, Angelo State University and more at 1/2 the cost and time of traditional universities with no campus attendance, no wait list and local clinicals.

Programs:

• LPN/LVN to RN - BS in Nursing - Indiana St. - (Licensed LPN/LVNs only)
• Paramedic to RN
• LPN/LVN to RN - AS in Nursing (Licensed LPN/LVNs only)

University of Phoenix

Campus

As the largest private university in North America, University of Phoenix has more than 200 locations, and is available online in most countries around the world. Whether you're seeking a college degree at an associate's, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral level, we can help you reach your academic goal—and sooner than you might think.

Programs:

• M.S. in Nursing
• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing
• BS in Nursing (RN Required)

Campus Locations:

Online
Hollywood
San Jose
Fairfield
East Lansing
Chandler
Henderson
Livermore
Livonia
Houston
Phoenix
St. Louis
Orlando
Independence
Flint
Troy
Palm Beach Gardens
Irving
Dallas
Oakland
Beachwood
Ontario
Las Vegas
Aurora
Hurst
Clinton Township
Tampa
Tucson
Westlake
Ann Arbor
Killeen
Fort Lauderdale
Sugar Land
Plantation
Elk Grove
San Diego
Sarasota
Southfield
Murrieta
Miami
Fresno
Littleton
Jacksonville
Baton Rouge
Grand Rapids
Lancaster
Salida
Clearwater
Bakersfield
Sacramento
St Louis Park
Daytona Beach
Woodland Hills
Lathrop
Fairfax
Mesa
Manassas
Maitland
Costa Mesa
Pasadena
Roseville
Saint Louis
Los Angeles
Diamond Bar
Saint Paul
Spring
Westminster
Lone Tree
San Antonio
Arlington
Gardena
Reston
Rancho Cordova
Temple Terrace
Nashville
San Francisco
Palm Desert
Portage

Keiser University

Campus

Keiser University eCampus Online offers degrees in fields that are in high demand and provides job placement assistance to all its students and alumni.

Programs:

• Nursing, MS
• Medical Assisting, AS

Campus Locations:

Fort Lauderdale

Keiser University Campus

Campus

Keiser University offers accredited degree programs in today's high-demand careers: Healthcare, Technology, Paralegal, Business, Nursing and Legal Studies.

Programs:

• Nursing, BS (Online Only)
• Nursing, AS
• Nursing, MS (Online Only)

Campus Locations:

Tampa
Tallahassee
Orlando
Lakeland
Fort Lauderdale
Jacksonville
Sarasota
Fort Myers
Port Saint Lucie
Melbourne
Hollywood
Daytona Beach
West Palm Beach

Dover Business College

Campus

Launch a business, healthcare, or technology career with Dover Business College. Train with the most current technology programs at one of our two (Dover and Paramus, New Jersey) campuses.

Programs:

• LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse)
• Patient Care Technician
• Medical Assistant

Campus Locations:

Dover
Clifton

Medtech

Campus

Start your career with an education from Medtech. We offer programs in biotechnology, health care management, medical assisting, medical billing and coding, medical lab technology, and nursing, plus several short-term career courses.

Programs:

• School of Nursing
• Medical Assistant

Campus Locations:

Fort Wayne

Summit College

Campus

Get your career started with an education from Summit College. We offer programs in legal office assisting, licensed vocational nursing, office administration, administrative and clinical medical assisting, medical billing and coding, dental assisting, and accounting assisting.

Programs:

• Licensed Vocational Nurse
• Certified Nursing Assistant

Campus Locations:

Anaheim
Colton

CollegeAmerica

Campus

Finally, a college that delivers. CollegeAmerica is truly unique in that their curriculum is designed for one purpose and one purpose only: to prepare students for success.

Programs:

• Bachelor of Science Completion in Nursing (Online)
• Associate Degree in Nursing
• Bachelor of Science Completion in Nursing Administration (Online)

Campus Locations:

Colorado Springs
Fort Collins
Phoenix
Cheyenne
Denver
Flagstaff

Sanford-Brown Institute

Campus

Get everything you need for the medical career you want. Sanford-Brown Institute's advanced programs allow you to complete your certificate or degree program in as little as 9 months. Learn more today.

Programs:

• Nursing
• Medical Assistant
• Medical Assistant Specialist

Campus Locations:

Melville
Austin
Orlando
Monroeville

Carrington College California

Campus

Carrington College California offers the programs you need to begin a career in healthcare. Choose from Healthcare, Massage Therapy, Dental Assisting, Pharmacy Technology, or Veterinary Services.

Programs:

• AS in Vocational Nursing
• Certificate in Vocational Nursing
• AS in Medical Assisting

Campus Locations:

Antioch
San Leandro
Pleasant Hill
Stockton
Emeryville
Sacramento
Pomona
Citrus Heights
San Jose

Stevens-Henager

Campus

For more than 119 years, Stevens-Henager College has worked to train generations of graduates for new careers. Stevens-Henager College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). Our degree programs, designed to help graduates compete in the ever-evolving employment market, include Medical Specialties, Respiratory Therapy, Healthcare Administration, Surgical Technology, Business Management and Accounting, Computer Technology and Networking, Computer Programming, Computer Science, and Graphic Arts*. Online programs are offered via Stevens-Henager College, Salt Lake City/Murray. Stevens-Henager College Idaho Falls is a branch campus of the CollegeAmerica, Flagstaff, AZ, main campus.

*Check each campus for program availability.

Programs:

• Bachelor of Science Completion in Nursing
• Associate Degree in Nursing Education
• Master of Science in Nursing Administration

Campus Locations:

Layton
Boise
Ogden
Murray
Idaho Falls
Logan
Lehi
Saint George
Nampa
Orem

Kaplan College - KHE

Campus

Don't wait another day to take the next step forward in your career. Kaplan College can give you the real-world knowledge and skills you need to succeed in your chosen field.

Programs:

• Associate of Science: Nursing
• Diploma: Practical Nursing
• Diploma: Patient Care Assistant/Technician

Campus Locations:

Las Vegas
Indianapolis
San Antonio
Corpus Christi
Columbus
Phoenix
Charlotte
Dayton
Mcallen
Arlington
Fort Worth
Midland
Laredo
Beaumont
Bakersfield
Clovis
Stockton
Lubbock

Charter College

Campus

Prepare for a better career and a brighter future with help from Charter College. Our accelerated Bachelors Degree, Associates Degree, and Certificate programs are designed to help you complete your education as quickly as possible. We offer year-round classes and flexible scheduling - study anytime from anywhere. Our small class sizes and dedicated instructors ensure a personalized education experience. We provide students not only with the technical skills necessary for success, but also job search and placement assistance so you can find the job that's right for you after graduation.

Programs:

• Vocational Nursing
• Medical Assistant

Campus Locations:

Canyon Country
Bellingham
Oxnard
Anchorage
Lancaster
Wasilla
Vancouver

Everest Institute

Campus

Take your career to a whole new level with a degree from Everest Institute. Programs available in Accounting, Paralegal, Business Administration and more.

Programs:

• Practical Nursing (Diploma)
• Patient Care Technician (Diploma)
• Medical Assistant (Associate's)

Campus Locations:

Grand Rapids
Southfield
Pittsburgh
Fort Lauderdale
Jonesboro
Miami
Hialeah
Dearborn
South Plainfield
Rochester
Saint Paul
Houston
Marietta
San Antonio
Detroit
Norcross
Bensalem
Silver Spring
Kalamazoo
Chelsea
Austin
charleston
Atlanta
Portland
Brighton

Lincoln Technical Institute

Campus

Lincoln Technical Institute provides career-focused, hands-on training programs with industry experienced instructors. Get the skills for a rewarding in-demand career.

For more student consumer information, please visit www.lincolnedu.com/lincolnconsumerinfo

Programs:

• Nursing
• Medical Assistant

Campus Locations:

Shelton
Edison
Paramus
Mount Laurel
Hamden
Casselberry
Philadelphia
Somerville
Allentown
Lowell
Brockton
Lincoln
Saint Petersburg