RN to BSN Programs: How Long Does it Take to Transition?
Due to the improved level of health literacy, people are now living longer. The average life expectancy has increased; however, the prolonged lifespan comes with more health concerns, and this makes providing care more challenging. This has led to a need for qualified nurses. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has predicted a 15 percent increase in the demand for nurses by the year 2026. To be able to meet the high demand, college programs are offering traditional and accelerated BSN programs.
Alongside other healthcare professionals, nurses are responsible for the safety, treatment, and recovery of ill or injured people, maintenance of people’s health, and the treatment of life-threatening incidences. Nurses develop care plans, and sometimes they have to work with therapists, physicians as well as the patient’s family. In the U.S., advanced practice nurses such as nurse practitioners and clinical nurses can diagnose health problems and even prescribe therapies and medication. The US Department of Labor states that RNs (Registered Nurses) work to prevent disease, promote health, and assist patients in coping with illnesses.
Traditional vs. Accelerated BSN Programs
Because both programs offer the same result, it can be a daunting task to find the right program for you, and you may be left questioning what the differences are.
Traditional BSN Programs
These programs are ideal for students that are joining college for the first time and don’t have degrees, or they want to change careers. These students also don’t have an associate’s degree in nursing or other fields. This program takes approximately four years, and during this time you’ll cover general education courses including English, algebra, history, and humanities among other compulsory electives.
These courses are often covered within the first two years. The next two years you’ll begin your healthcare classes and get hands-on experience. After graduating and earning your BSN, you’ll be required to sit for the state board examination before you become a Registered Nurse.
Online RN to BSN Accelerated Programs
The demand for professional nurses is soaring, and the idea of getting on an accelerated RN to BSN program is very appealing. However, it’s important that you know that these programs are designed for nurses who already have a degree. This means that if you have an associate’s degree and you have already passed the NCLEX exam, you can pursue a bachelor’s degree. You can also get on the fast track program if you have a degree in another field but want to make a career change. The accelerated program makes it possible for you to earn your bachelor of science in nursing within 15-18 months and you can even do it online.
Benefits of an Accelerated Nursing Program
Flexible programs: Accelerated BSN programs offer you flexibility. Studying online helps you work at your own pace, and you can determine the time you need to put in.
There’s a high demand for nurses: Most students pursue courses that they hope will land them jobs easily after college. Fortunately, there is a high demand for registered nurses. Therefore, you can have peace of mind that after all your hard work in school; there are several job opportunities with above average salaries and good benefits.
Hands on experience: Although most of the coursework will be covered online, an accelerated BSN program enables you to use what you have learned in real life. For instance, you will be exposed to the day-to-day hospital activities during clinicals. Therefore, you’ll be able to practice your nursing skills under close supervision of professional RNs. The online BSN program will also provide you with hands-on experience. This can be through clinical placements and high-tech simulation labs.
You’ll join a rewarding career: The main reason as to why you are thinking about entering an accelerated BSN program is because you have a passion for helping patients to lead a healthy life. Very few career choices can give you the satisfaction of affecting the lives of people on a daily basis. By joining such a program, you’ll have the gratification that the challenging moments you face will be paid for with a more rewarding experience.
Is an accelerated course of study the right step for you? If you can’t wait to earn your Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing Degree, you might be right for ECPI University’s RN to BSN program. For more information about this exciting opportunity, speak to a helpful admissions representative today.
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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Gainful Employment Information – RN to BSN - Bachelor’s
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