Bachelor of Science in Nursing - The Next Step

A bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) is perfect for people looking to start a medical career. Individuals currently working as nurses find the BSN helps to enhance potential career options and serves as a precursor to graduate studies. More schools than ever offer online BSN courses, making the degree accessible to a wider range of students.

The BSN program lasts a total of four years, with early graduation possible due to credits earned from employment and other applicable life experiences. Candidates receive training in standard patient procedures, but the curriculum also grooms them for work in non-bedside occupations including research and supervisory positions.

Students take a wide range of classes, each lasting approximately eight weeks. First and second year curriculum focuses on liberal arts and sciences. Students take nursing courses during the third and fourth years. Degree candidates also work under a licensed supervisor at this time, called the clinical period. Most online BSN degrees only accept registered nurses (RNs) who have previously completed at least two years of training. This eliminates the need for clinical requirements and reduces program completion time to a total of two years.

Sample general courses include:

- Mammalian anatomy

- Psychology

- Elementary statistics

Sample nursing courses include:

- Nursing care of the elderly

- Introduction to wellness

Additional courses include:

- Data management for nurse managers

- Ethical challenges in health care informatics

Successful degree candidates have a strong background in mathematics and sciences. Students interested in pursuing a BSN program online should have a strong internet connection. Teachers provide instruction in the form of web seminars, or webinars. Mp3 and mp4 downloads turn workout rooms or long drives into a learning experience. Chat rooms allow students to share their experiences and discuss problems with classmates from around the country.

According to the United States Department of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment opportunities are excellent for BSN degree holders. Some areas are desperate for new talent as current staff retire from the system. Also, this flexible field, hospital and clinics may not be the only option for degree recipients. Book publishers and law firms sometimes have a place for individuals who possess a bachelor of science in nursing.

Some career paths can include:

• Primary care nurse manager

• Nursing staff development director

• Nurse case manager

• General registered nurse

• Clinical nursing manager

• Clinical audit manager

• Hospice care program administrator

• Nurse manager

• Nursing director

• Behavioral health program manager

Nick Hugh works in education and enjoys writing about the benefits of online degree options.

No comments:

Post a Comment