By: Shawn Cox
Submitted: 2011-08-30 11:39:33 | Word Count: 732
Obtaining your Bachelor of Science in Nursing is a step thatcould add to your already productive career as a nurse. By taking your educational credentials to thenext level, there will be more opportunities for advancement, either with yourcurrent employer or in a brand new setting. If you are curious about what is involved with earning your nursingbachelor's degree, below are a few tips you should keep in mind.
In many cases, the credits you have already accumulated inearning your associate degree will serve you well in obtaining your bachelor'sdegree. Many institutions will look overall the credits related to your previous degree and evaluate each one. All acceptable credits are then appliedtoward your bachelor's degree, a procedure that can help expedite both thelearning process and the duration of your studies. Typically, you will need a minimum number ofcredits related to nursing, as well as the bulk of your general educationcourses, to meet the criteria in order to be accepted into the program.
Today, more options exist in terms of earning your degreethan there were possible ten years ago. You can choose to attend school full time in a traditional setting, goto classes at night and on weekends, or utilize online learning technology topursue your degree rarely having to leave your home. As distance learning has become more widelyaccepted, many institutions that offer traditional classes also provide onlinelearning opportunities. For registerednurses that are working full time, the online path may be the best. Generally, there is a great deal offlexibility in when you have to virtually attend class, submit assignments, andtake exams. This means that you caneasily coordinate your educational efforts with your work schedule.
You may also want to consider an accelerated nursingprogram. These concentrated programs aredesigned to allow nurses to obtain a Bachelors degree in less time. Many of these programs are set up so that thecoursework can be completed and the degree earned in one to two years. While this option tends to be a bit moredemanding in terms of your schedule, the benefit is that you can get the degreein a shorter time frame than the traditional route. If you have a specific career goal in mind,it may be to your advantage to consider an accelerated program.
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Once you have an idea of what type of learning environmentwould be best for you, you will need to investigate various nursing programsthat you are interested in. Alwaysverify that any program you are considering is properly accredited and will berecognized by the agency responsible for issuing licenses in your area. Graduating from an accredited program doesmake a difference and will open many more career paths for you, as opposed to aprogram that is not recognized and is not accredited.
Take the time to speak with representatives of each programthat you are considering. Get a feel forwhat to expect in terms of instructors, and what types of financial aid- grantsand loans might be available. Along withinvestigating finance options through your school, do not forget to approachyour current employer. It is not unusualfor medical institutions to have endowments or tuition programs that will helptheir nurses further their education. Ifthis sort of support is available, find out what the qualifications are andapply for any programs where you meet the criteria.
Once you have settled on a specific school, prepare yourapplication and any other documents that are required. Some institutions will ask applicants toinclude a thesis or other personal writing that deals with the reasons forwanting to enter the program. Make sureyou understand what the school is looking for in the way of format andstructure. Keep copies of everything yousubmit, in the event any questions should arise between the time of submissionand your acceptance into the program.
Keep in mind that going back to school, especially if it hasbeen several years since you earned your Associate degree, may bring about someadjustments to your lifestyle. Shareyour plans and goals with family and friends, letting them know in advance thatyour time will be limited and that you may need them to exercise patience withyou occasionally. Also commit yourselfto setting aside time for studying and any other out of class activities thatmay be required in order to complete your coursework. With a firm resolve and dedication to yourtask, you will earn your Bachelor of Science in nursing degree and be able tomove closer to reaching your career goals.
