How to Become a Nurse Online: Can You Get a Nursing Degree Remotely & Advance Your Education Flexibly and Efficiently?
Becoming a registered nurse or advancing your nursing education online is possible and even recommended for those who need access to traditional educational paths.
Today, we want to share everything you need to know about the experience of remote education: how to become a nurse online, how online or hybrid programs work, and what makes online learning worthy of your time and consideration.
Can You Get a Nursing Degree or Become a Nurse Online?
The answer is more complicated: in most cases, you can find hybrid programs and start studying to become a nurse online. However, most full certification programs require you to complete on-ground courses, whether we consider PN, RN, or MSN educational programs.
That is why most nursing programs are hybrid: they include online instructional courses and on-ground supervised field experiences, also referred to as SOFE. The reasoning is that many skills can only be learned by caring for patients through hands-on experience. While online courses can deliver nursing concepts, they need to gain the immersive experience of being in a hospital or other healthcare facility.
Discover the SOFE areas made available for Nightingale College students.
Generally, online nursing schools ensure accessibility and flexibility by having multiple healthcare settings nationwide, guaranteeing that you can easily complete your required courses. We advise that learners who need the flexibility of an online program choose a hybrid program and not a fully online alternative. Remember that some educational tracks can be completed entirely online, but this depends on the skills it teaches you and the level of preparation you already have achieved.
For instance, although the BSN Program at Nightingale College requires participation in physical field experience, if you already have an ADN-level education, you can earn your Bachelor’s degree by enrolling in a 1-year-long 100% online RN-to-BSN Track.
Browse our academic programs and pick the one that suits you best!
How to Choose Your Online Nursing Program?
If you want to become a nurse online, the first step is to find the appropriate program for your career expectations. Most online nursing programs you will encounter are designed for aspiring students who want to achieve registered nursing degrees, such as an ADN, ASN, or BSN. Many others are geared toward certified RNs who have already passed the NCLEX-RN exam and want to advance their education.
Another thing you should consider when starting your nursing education online is the level of experience the school has with online learning. Enrolling in an online RN program from an experienced school is a safer decision.
At Nightingale College, we have provided trusted, high-quality nursing education for years and continue to improve our curriculum. Additionally, our programs cover most educational paths necessary for starting or furthering your career:
- PN Diploma Program – If you are just starting as a nursing student and want to join the workforce and start practicing as soon as possible, the fastest way into a healthcare setting is the 12-month PN Diploma Program.
- LPN-to-ASN Path – Essential fast-track for advancing from a licensed practical nurse to a registered nurse in as few as 16 months.
- RN-to-BSN Track – 12-month 100% online educational track for advancing to the highest level of accreditation for registered nurses.
- BSN Program – If you want to start your career as a registered nurse with a BSN, this program will provide quality concept-based education and trusted field experience, allowing you to graduate in less than 3 years.
- MSN Ed, MSN FNP, and MSN PMHNP Programs – 24-month Master’s programs that prepare you to pursue a career in education, family and community health, or psychiatric and mental health care.
Find out more about our academic programs!
How to Become a Nurse Online: Getting Your Nursing Degree
Let’s take a look at how you can obtain different nursing degrees and see how each of them works in regards to online study:
Becoming an LPN: Entry-level Program
Receiving practical nursing education is the shortest route to starting your nursing career and practice. You can do so via a hybrid PN Diploma Program, such as the one offered by Nightingale College. You can receive your PN diploma in as few as 12 months. Once you pass the NCLEX-PN exam, you can start practicing as a licensed practical nurse.
You can learn more about the process of becoming an LPN, as well as about available LPN jobs and careers and the estimated LPN salary by state.
Becoming an RN Through Online ADN Programs
Online ADN programs can more accurately be regarded as hybrid programs. They offer online didactic instruction, which means you can complete most of your coursework in an online environment. Still, you must undergo on-site experiential learning in a medical facility because becoming a competent nurse requires real, in-person clinical experience.
Most ADN programs include classes in pharmacology, advanced issues in cognition, and gerontological nursing that can be taken online. These classes have no hands-on skills associated with them, so offering them in a virtual environment doesn’t reduce the quality of learning.
At the same time, classes like Concepts of Nursing in Acute Care, Entry into Professional Nursing Practice, and Concepts of Nursing – Health Promotion give the best result if offered on the ground. Nursing students, especially those at the beginning of their nursing career, must learn the skills they will need to be confident, competent, and compassionate RNs, and there’s no better way to do that than to interact with patients in healthcare facilities directly and to experience first-hand the real life of a nurse.
Advancing From LPN to RN via Bridge Paths
If you have previously received your PN diploma and have passed the NCLEX-PN, you can advance your education and become a nurse online faster via a bridge path.
There are many options, but the LPN-to-ASN Path at Nightingale College is one such example that focuses on practical concept-based education and can be completed in as few as 16 months.
Find out more about LPN to RN bridge programs and everything they entail.
The program thoroughly prepares you to pass the NCLEX-RN, become a nurse online, and be a valuable and apt member in various healthcare settings. Remember that this path brings your education to the ASN/ADN level, which is sufficient for RN practice. However, if you want to further advance your education, you will have to embark on another (short) academic journey.
Getting Your BSN Degree through Online RN-to-BSN Programs
Registered nurses with an ADN can pursue a fully online BSN degree by enrolling in an RN-to-BSN program. These accelerated bridge programs are explicitly aimed at working professionals who want to advance their studies, further their nursing expertise, and, as a result, improve the future of the healthcare industry. RN-to-BSN programs allow learners to earn course credit based on their experience as an RN. Hence, nurses who work in the field can complete the degree quickly.
Nightingale’s RN-to-BSN Track offers 100% online didactic instruction and is an excellent option for RNs who want to pursue a BSN without sacrificing their job.
Discover what you will learn in an RN-to-BSN program.
Depending on the school, traditional BSN programs, as well as accelerated BSN programs, can offer the option for online study. However, bear in mind that while you will be able to complete most of your coursework online for BSN programs, such as the one offered by Nightingale College, there’s also the Supervised On-ground Field Experience (SOFE) factor, so you will have to gain clinical experience by working in hospitals or other medical institutions.
Advance your nursing career: enroll in our online RN-to-BSN Track today!
Getting a Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN) Online
You can pursue an online MSN degree should you decide to advance your education and join the ranks of the highest-trained nursing professionals. Some of the programs are entirely online, while others combine theory-based education online with clinical training in approved medical settings.
Nightingale College offers three hybrid educational options for advancing your education to the MSN level:
- MSN Ed – Recommended for those who want to become nurse educators
- MSN FNP – Recommended for aspiring family nurse practitioners
- MSN PMHNP – Recommended for aspiring nursing psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners
Find the online academic program that suits you best!
How Do Online Nursing Programs Work?
Thanks to online nursing programs, aspiring nurses can pursue a career as registered nurses or advance their education safely and effectively even in the uncertain times we are living at the moment.
From paperless admissions to video interviews to completing prerequisites, learning class materials, and taking exams – all of that virtually – online nursing programs are specially designed for the convenience and security of learners.
Before enrolling, it helps to have a very clear picture of what online nursing school is like, from start to finish:
Admissions
Admissions for online programs aren’t very different from on-campus ones, although they happen entirely in virtual environments. Schools can individualize their admission process, but generally, it goes along the same lines: you find a program that interests you, apply, submit a personal essay, and other required documents such as transcripts, recommendation letters, and different certificates, like CPR training (if available). In some cases, an interview with an admissions advisor might follow. Most schools also have entrance exams.
Prerequisites
Completing some prerequisite courses is a requirement for most nursing programs, online and otherwise. For enrollment in an ADN program, you can expect the prerequisites to include English, Math, anatomy and physiology, nutrition, and developmental psychology. You might also have to pass statistics, microbiology, biology, chemistry, and other prerequisites for a BSN program.
The required prerequisites can slightly differ from school to school, so it’s best to check with the institution you wish to attend what classes to focus your attention on. The courses may also vary based on the specialty of your degree.
Homework & Course Schedule
When it comes to online nursing programs, you’re entirely responsible for how you choose to manage your time, place of study, and schedule. One problem online learners face is procrastination, so now is a great time to work on your planning and organization skills. Otherwise, doing your homework and following course materials will prove more difficult.
A good tip is to take the time to review the syllabus. This will help you understand the class format, the requirements, and also the expectations you have to meet. Thus, it will be easier to devise a schedule that works for you, and every assignment will find you prepared.
Exams
In online nursing programs, traditional exams are usually substituted by written work, in which you have to demonstrate how well you understood the provided materials. But don’t get too excited yet. Exams are still mandatory and extremely serious.
Lab Clinicals
Depending on the program and college, even in online nursing programs, you must participate in clinicals, allowing you to acquire essential hands-on experience from a medical facility.
You should perceive clinicals as intense working sessions where you learn to tackle real-life responsibilities in the workplace. It will help you gain experience in the field and ensure that you are ready to work in a healthcare facility.
Unlike other online nursing programs that require most learners to make the clinical arrangements, the clinical hours in the BSN and RN-to-BSN programs required by Nightingale are dedicated to Community Health and Capstone Projects. Both can be completed in the learner’s community and local facilities.
Curriculum
If you’re considering pursuing an online nursing program, you should know they cover the same topics as the campus-based courses.
You will learn nursing fundamentals, theories, healthcare ethics, and management-related disciplines. The curriculum also includes post-licensure coursework focusing on community nursing, leadership, policy, ethics, critical care, gerontology, health promotion, disease prevention, and informatics, among other key nursing concepts.
Browse our academic programs and consult the courses included in each one!
Graduation & Diploma
If you are enrolled in an ADN online program or a traditional BSN, once you complete the educational and clinical requirements of the chosen program, you must pursue licensure to become a nurse, online or otherwise. To do that, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), a comprehensive, all-encompassing exam that allows you to practice as an RN.
How Long Do Online Nursing Programs Take?
On average, earning your Associate’s Degree in Nursing takes up to two years. Depending on your previous educational background, getting your BSN degree online can take anywhere from 12 months to four years, while online MSN degrees usually take around 2 years to complete.
Regarding online learning, you can also opt for an accelerated program, which lets you earn your degree faster. This type of program is more challenging, but if you are looking for the fastest route toward your degree, this may be a worthy option. Also, if you already have a Bachelor’s Degree in an unrelated field and wish to switch to nursing, that might shorten the duration of your studies.
The Nightingale College online nursing programs are specifically designed to be completed in a relatively short amount of time while also holding onto the highest standards of nursing education. Generally, this is how long it takes to complete each online program at our college:
- Practical Nursing Certification: The PN Diploma Program is the required educational path for licensed practical nurses. It can take as few as 12 months to complete.
- Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing: A fully online RN-to-BSN bridge fast-track program can be completed in as few as 12 months at Nightingale College, while a blended-distance BSN can take around 32 months. Both programs develop skills, reasoning, and attributes of successful, compassionate, professional registered nurses.
- Master’s of Science in Nursing: The three MSN programs provided at Nightingale College allow you to graduate in as few as 24 months. They are designed for learners with a BSN and prepare students to practice in diverse settings, from hospitals and schools to industry and businesses.
Read more about how long it takes to complete nursing school.
How Much Do Online Nursing Programs Cost?
Since there is no classroom where the lecture is held, learners don’t pay classroom costs typically associated with in-person classes. All the resources are updated online and uploaded on the learner portal, where you can log in and out whenever you want. Thus, online nursing programs are more cost-friendly, and this is another reason many people choose to go online.
For instance, a traditional, on-campus BSN program costs between $32,000 to $100,000 yearly. At the same time, tuition for the Nightingale College blended BSN program is $590 per semester credit, with 120 semester credits required for the conferral of the BSN degree.
Nightingale also has a cost-friendly RN-to-BSN program, where you can take online nursing classes and pursue quality clinical hours for $400 per semester credit. At a total cost of around $53,000, our online RN-to-BSN program is more accessible than other programs, which can cost anywhere from $25,000 to $80,000.
Benefits of Online Nursing Programs vs On-Campus Learning
Online and physical schools are the same regarding the quality of studies. Both require commitment and passion and advance your skills, knowledge, and experience. However, there are a few notable differences between online programs and on-campus classrooms. Let’s explore some of these differences:
Format
The main difference between online and traditional courses is that the former is hosted via an online portal, where you will interact with fellow learners and your professors during various lectures, assignments, and comments for students to access and review.
The main benefit of the online format is that you can access quality education anywhere, regardless of location or other obligations that force you to stay home or be on the go.
Interaction with Teachers and Colleagues
One drawback is that the online learning format can become isolating, especially if you do not have a reliable support system.
Luckily, a hybrid program, such as most of the academic programs at Nightingale College, can relieve the alienation and allow you to meet and build relationships with academic staff and fellow students. Additionally, many online nursing schools take active steps toward building communities and supporting their students, no matter what walks of life they come from.
Studying at Your Own Pace
One of the significant benefits of online nursing programs is that they allow you to study at your own pace. You’re not restricted by structured, rigid schedules typically associated with in-person-only institutions.
Flexibility
When you take up an online nursing program, you can organize your learning around other fixed commitments you may have. This way, you can continue your daily work and look after your family life and social obligations. The ability to study remotely makes it easier to obtain a nursing qualification.
Accessibility
Online programs have a definitive advantage over on-campus ones in terms of accessibility. You can log on to your course anytime, from any location, even if it’s evening, lunch break, or weekend. Regardless of where you live, you can find a school that caters to your area.
Technology
Familiarization with computer technology plays a huge part in online nursing programs and will equip you with valuable informatics skills you can apply later. Employers also favor the ability to use computers effectively, giving you an edge over other candidates.
Are Online Nursing Programs Better Than On-Campus Ones?
Ultimately, the answer comes down to your preferences, learning style, and personal requirements. While the viability of an online nursing program depends on your objectives, here are the main pros and cons of an online program:
Pros of online nursing programs:
- The virtual format guarantees maximum flexibility in organizing your learning tasks and responsibilities.
- Online nursing programs are designed to be accessible to a broader base of learners, especially those from underserved and underrepresented communities.
- Online nursing programs are helpful if you have to juggle studies, a full-time job, family responsibilities, and other personal priorities.
- They allow you to develop particular management and leadership skills sought by prospective employers while developing your tech savviness.
Cons of online nursing programs:
- Online learning can seem confusing if you’re unfamiliar with online education.
- They demand more responsibility, independence, and self-discipline from learners.
- Although most of your education will occur online, most programs require you to complete supervised on-ground field experience classes.
- Some programs may provide limited support for passing NCLEX exams post-graduation.
Learn more about the differences between online, hybrid, and on-ground BSN programs.
At Nightingale College, we aim to maximize the benefits of online education while reducing the drawbacks. This is why our academic programs include coaching for passing the NCLEX and other support systems, in addition to the accredited, high-quality curriculum that guarantees you will become an essential member of your future work setting. We prioritize student success and provide a learning experience aimed toward career development and fulfillment.
Are Online Nursing Programs Harder?
Online nursing courses have the same difficulty as on-campus ones and can pose additional hurdles if you’re not used to planning your schedule and managing your time efficiently. You will have homework, required reading, deadlines, and projects and face the same expectations you would have to meet in a traditional class.
Remember that online nursing programs require clinical hours, which you must pass to get your degree. That’s your chance to put into practice all the things you learned online and also a turning point in your online nursing degree.
Some regulatory bodies have changed the percentage of direct patient care required due to the coronavirus outbreak. For example, direct patient care requirements have dropped from 75% to 50% for obstetrics, pediatrics, and psychiatric classes students in California. Also, the California State Board of Nursing allowed up to 50% of clinical practice virtually through simulation or lab training.
Still, the importance of direct clinical experience must be recognized. Just ask yourself, do you want to be a nurse without ever being truly taught how to start an IV?
Are Online Nursing Programs Accredited?
Many high-quality online nursing degrees are available for various specialties and degree levels, from associate to doctoral degrees. Before enrollment, ensure that a reputable institution offers your chosen online degree.
Although many are, online degrees are not guaranteed to be accredited. Research and check if your online nursing program is accredited by a national association – the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.
Since the accreditation procedure follows the same standards to review and qualify all academic institutions, you can be sure that, in terms of the quality of education, online and offline programs will offer you the same level of preparation.
Nightingale College is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, and our programs follow the AACN guidelines for Baccalaureate Education for Professional Nursing.
Our accreditation proves our commitment to upholding the highest educational standards. Hence, our programs train great nursing professionals while being recognized and respected among potential employers.
Are Online Nursing Programs Credible to Employers?
Employers do not discriminate against RNs who hold online nursing degrees as long as these degrees come from reputable, accredited institutions. So, if the online program you choose to enroll in is serious, employers will consider you a viable candidate for a job.
Remember, many employers will refuse to recognize degrees from colleges that are not accredited. If you’re considering attending an unaccredited program with no on-ground requirements, think about what options may or may not be available after graduation.
Enroll in an Online Nursing Program and Take the Next Step in Your Nursing Career
Online nursing programs are appreciated for their multiple benefits, from the flexibility they offer to the professionalism with which they are conducted. However, during the past few months, the importance of online nursing schools has skyrocketed.
Online nursing programs allow aspiring nurses to start their careers or advance if they’re already professionals.
Online nursing education is genuinely demanding and requires rigor, commitment, and a willingness from both learners and teachers to embrace modern technology academically. But if you stick with it, it will prepare you for a successful career in nursing. You’ll be better equipped to fight on the frontlines of any local or global medical threat, proving, again and again, how essential nurses are in the healthcare system.