Choosing the Right Online Nursing Degree Program

by Alex A. Kecskes

In tough economic times, when work shifts are light and overtime is scarce, many healthcare professionals choose to go back to school—to finish getting their degree or go for a more advanced one. In healthcare, more education usually means more job security and higher pay. A recent survey revealed that registered nurses with a BSN earned $4,200 more per year than those without the degree.



Today, nurses who want to add an RN to BSN degree to their resume can do so without physically attending a college. There are a number of online nursing degree programs that offer plenty of flexibility in terms of time scheduling, so you can earn your degree while working full time.



Before signing up for just any online program, you should be certain that it is fully accredited, and that it offers the high quality RN or BSN program you need to enhance your career.



The two main accrediting agencies for nursing programs are the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Both are acceptable and recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (USDE) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).



Here are a few of the best online nursing degree programs according to The Best Degrees.



• Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences

• Chamberlain College of Nursing

• Sacred Heart University

• Drexel University

• Western Governors University

• Graceland University

• Indiana State University



I've known several nurses and can tell you that they kept up with their education and certifications, which ultimately helped advance their careers.



For more information on health careers, visit www.healthcarejobsiteblog.com



Alex A. Kecskes has written hundreds of published articles on health/fitness, "green" issues, TV/film entertainment, restaurant reviews and many other topics. As a former Andy/Belding/One Show ad agency copywriter, he also writes web content, ads, brochures, sales letters, mailers and scripts for national B2B and B2C clients.