How To Get a RN Degree Online: A Guide to RN Courses

How to become a Registered Nurse

There are many paths to becoming a nurse, but one of the most common is to earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Earning a BSN is the most common pathway to becoming a registered nurse, although you might also be able to become an RN with an associate degree or a certificate.

The fields of nursing are growing at a rapid pace, with a projected growth rate of 16% by 2026. If you’re interested in a career that offers a good salary and tons of job opportunities, nursing is a great option.

RN Degree Requirements

The requirements for earning a BSN degree will vary from one nursing school to another, but in general, you can expect to need at least two years of full-time study. You’ll need to earn a certain GPA and complete certain pre-requisite courses.

Some nursing schools, however, offer accelerated programs that allow students to earn their degree in a shorter period of time, such as 15 months. The RN degree requirements are a little bit different. While many nursing schools require you to hold a BSN degree, some will accept an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a diploma in nursing. You can also earn an RN degree online, which is the perfect option for people who hold a non-nursing degree but want to switch careers.

How to get an RN degree online

If you’re interested in earning an RN degree online, you’ll have lots of options. There are hundreds of online nursing programs available, and many are designed for people with a non-nursing degree. There are also accelerated online BSN programs that allow you to complete your degree in less than two years. As you search for the best online nursing program for you, keep a few things in mind.

First, you’ll want to make sure the program is accredited. Next, make sure the program offers the degree you need to become a registered nurse, whether that’s an RN, BSN, or something else. Finally, look into the cost of the program, including any fees associated with it, and whether the program has financial aid available.

RN Degree Course Options

If you’re earning a BSN degree, you’ll take a mix of nursing courses, general education (GE) courses, and electives. Nursing courses include subjects like anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology. GE courses are subjects like math, statistics, and English that every student needs to know.

Electives are subjects that allow you to specialize in a certain field or take more general subjects. As an example, you might take general education courses in psychology and elective courses in child psychology.

If you’re earning an RN degree, you’ll take a mix of nursing, general education, and specialty courses. Nursing courses are just like the ones you’d take to earn a BSN degree. General education courses are subjects that every person needs to know, such as math, history, and English.

Specialty courses are more specific to nursing, such as patient care, ethics, and health policy.

RN Degree vs BSN Degree

The BSN and RN degrees are similar, but there are a few key differences. First, the BSN degree is an advanced degree while the RN degree is an associate degree. This means the BSN requires more time to complete and is more difficult. The BSN degree will also open more doors for you, especially if you want to pursue a doctorate degree or become a nurse practitioner.

The BSN and RN degrees are also different in how they’re awarded. Someone who earns an RN degree is a Registered Nurse, whereas someone who earns a BSN degree is a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. In general, having the BSN degree will make you a more attractive job candidate, but it’s not required in every situation.

How to advance your nursing career with an RN degree

If you’ve earned a BSN degree, you’ve moved up the career ladder in a big way. With an RN degree, you’re eligible for a ton of jobs, ranging from clinical nurse to nurse educator. You’re also more likely to be promoted within your current job. Earning an RN degree can also help you move into a higher paying job. Nurses with an RN degree earn, on average, $16,000 more per year than nurses with a BSN.

If you’ve earned an RN degree, you can also become a nurse educator and teach nursing students. You can also pursue advanced degrees, such as a nurse practitioner degree or doctor of nursing degree (DNP). You can also advance your career by joining professional organizations, attending conferences, and networking with other nurses.

Online Nursing Courses: Final Words

Online nursing courses offer a flexible way to earn your degree. You can work at your own pace, from wherever you want. As you work through your degree, you can get help and support from online nursing tutors.

Earning a nursing degree online is a great option for working adults, people with families, and people who are retired. For more information about how to get a RN degree online and what courses you should take, contact a nursing school.