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There are many factors that all aspiring nurses should consider when choosing a program to obtain a degree. They should be able to understand these factors in order to come up with the smartest decision. Everyone should bear in mind that education is a big investment. With this, future nurses should only enroll in programs that will provide the highest quality of education at a price they can afford.
Type of Nursing Degree Programs
Future nurses should ensure that they choose a school that offers their preferred degree. They can go for a four-year bachelor’s degree or a two-year associate degree. Some schools may not offer all nursing programs. With this, prospective students should verify the available nursing programs offered by prospective schools.
Accreditation
Only schools accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission should be considered. These organizations are responsible for checking and reviewing academic policies, curriculum and instructors. They ensure that they adhere to high standards and keep up with the latest developments in the nursing industry.
Scheduling
Scheduling is essential to consider when choosing a nursing program. This is particularly true for working students. Many nursing schools offer online classes that allow students to study at their own pace. These schools provide people the opportunity to study without compromising their work.
Curriculum
Becoming a nurse requires both theoretical and practical skills. With this, it is important that the school’s curriculum will develop both of these areas. Students who opt for online programs should ensure that the curriculum will allow them to be exposed to real-life settings that require them to apply their education. Some schools may provide credit for job experience in the healthcare industry.
School and Program Reputation
It is a smart idea to check the background of prospective schools. The Internet is the best place to find information about whether a school has a history of student complaints. They may also ask students who are currently enrolled in the program.
Student Nursing Opportunities
Many reliable nursing schools offer students opportunities to take part in community activities. This is a great chance for student nurses to get involved. They may be allowed to volunteer in family caregiving, disaster planning, first aid, immunization, health education and other leadership and support services. These opportunities help them grow professionally and personally. Most importantly, these experiences are great resume builders.
Job Placement and Career Services
A reputable nursing program will guide students from the first day they enter class until they leave for job hunting. It is important that future nurses opt for schools that offer students assistance and career development. These schools help the students prepare for internships and job placement. They should prepare students physically and mentally for job hunting after graduation. The program should offer students career services such as resume writing, interview skills, portfolio assistance, job search strategies and interview tips and skills.
Location
It is best that nursing students go to schools that are close to where they live. They may also relocate if they wish to. However, it is a smart idea to enroll in schools that are not difficult to get to. With this, students can spend more time studying or working rather than traveling.
Advantages of Taking Classes Online
Many nursing students quit school because of time constraints. Most of them are working students. With this, it is a wise choice to choose nursing programs that offer both on-campus and online classes. Doing so will allow them to easily keep up with their hectic schedules. Online classes are more convenient and the schedules are flexible. Online nursing programs are often best for working students as they can study during their free time. They can study wherever they like and at any time. However, these online programs should have online student support. The courses should be similar to those offered by on-campus programs.
NCLEX Passing Rates
Graduates of nursing programs can only practice their profession legally after they pass the NCLEX exam. With this, they should be able to attend nursing programs that help them qualify for and pass the exam. The school’s NCLEX exam pass rates will determine the effectiveness of the teaching methods and curriculum utilized.