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RN Program
By an allied health world contributing writer
Published: February 1st, 2010
What specific classes and coursework will RN programs include?
In addition to coursework specifically related to medicine and nursing, RN programs at the certificate and bachelor’s level will also include electives, humanities, and liberal arts. Although arguably not always a vital component to nursing in practice, it is generally agreed upon that a well rounded education including arts and humanities will build confidence and prepare students to better work with patients and physicians alike from all social strata.Nursing programs at every level will include core study courses that will be focused on didactic and clinical training in the following:
- Organic and inorganic chemistry
- Medical Terminology
- Nutrition
- Physiology
- Anatomy
- Biology and Microbiology
- Psychology
What are my registered nursing undergraduate degree options?
While employers tend to show the strongest preference for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, this is by no means
the only option available to aspiring RNs. There are programs available at every level to suite the needs of those interested in a quick transition from school to work, as well as those ambitious enough to pursue advanced RN degrees. What follows is a description of the most common undergraduate degree options available to both aspiring and practicing RNs:Diploma/Certificate: Certificate programs are quite few and far between as the educational expectations for even entry-level nursing positions are trending towards more clinical exposure and more comprehensive training. By themselves these programs can be quite limited in scope, but they can offer a great transitional education for those aspiring to associate’s and bachelor’s degrees in nursing.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): ADN programs can most often be completed in fewer than three years. An ADN allows for more employment opportunities than would a certificate, but most often these programs are attended as a precursor to bachelor’s-level RN programs.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): The Bachelor of Science in nursing degree is not only among the highest nursing credentials aspired to by RNs in training, but it also represents the degree that most employers show the strongest preference for when looking to fill entry level positions. This degree can be earned in four years of campus based or online training through RN schools. Bachelor’s programs, as compared to associate’s and certificate level programs, offer a far more comprehensive training experience. These RN programs allow for more clinical exposure while placing a stronger focus on effective communication, leadership, and decision-making skills. For those who have earned a BS in a field other than nursing, accelerated BSN programs can be completed in as little as one year.
What are my options for online RN programs?
Distance learning options are bountiful for those considering a career in registered nursing. These online nursing programs often have full accreditation and provide a wonderfully robust and very accessible education to those interested in starting their nursing careers, as well as those practicing RNs who wish to pursue master’s and doctorate level training.Explore the options available to you by speaking with the admissions office from online and campus-based schools of interest. Inquiries are always welcomed by school admissions offices and are free of any cost or obligation. Having questions answered by an admissions counselor can only help to give you all the information you need to make a fully informed choice about which school is best suited to your individual needs.
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