Affordable NLN accredited nursing degree programs online are one way of addressing the nursing shortage. Many nursing institutions (homecare agencies, hospitals, clinics) are now focusing more on ways to impact the nursing shortage and the shortage of bachelors and masters prepared nurses. By increasing tuition reimbursement many institutes are helping diploma or associate degree prepared nurses can take advantage of distance learning or online nursing BSN and MSN and PhD programs
Accrediting agencies such as ANCC and JCHO are putting pressure for more bachelors and masters prepared nurses. Also, one of the reasons for the nursing shortage is the lack of instructors with the necessary advanced degrees to teach. An online program is flexible and one way for nurses to obtain the degree they want while still maintaining a work schedule.
Health care is the fastest growing industry in the US. The need for qualified nurses is only going to increase. A bachelors, masters or even PhD degree will put that nurse at an advantage for increased wages, job opportunities, and job security.
Many nurses wonder about the reputation of online degrees. It is important to attend an accredited school, and when there are clinical rotations involved, to work with a qualified and respected preceptor. Every form of education has its benefits and it is often what you make of it that counts.
Many nursing colleges now have wait lists for nursing students, due to the nursing instructor shortage. An online program will allow the potential student to start their studies sooner. The online college degree arena has allowed more accessibility, so many students who were not able to attend a campus based college program are now able to complete an advanced nursing degree through online or distance learning programs.
