Why opt for online nursing Masters Degree programs?

For those looking to improve their prospects in nursing, Masters Nursing online Degree programs offer a number of advantages compared to traditional campus-based education. An individual having a Bachelor of Science in Nursing or a Registered Nurse is eligible to apply for a Masters program in nursing.

In general, a masters nursing degree will arm you with advanced development and management skills needed to educate, guide and lead other nurses.

A Masters degree, in general, has the following plus points:

• You can easily qualify for teaching or management jobs
• You will have better job prospects and higher salaries than those having just a BSN.
• Become eligible for a Nurse Executive, Nurse Executive- Advanced or board certification in Nursing Professional Development
• Become eligible for doctoral level education

A major disadvantage of online Masters Degree program is that it is not meant for everyone. Some students may find it difficult to remain focused and motivated while studying on their own. They may dislike the isolation an online program can bring with it. It is therefore advisable to go in for an online program only if you can manage your study time outside the classroom settings or if you have a distinct learning style.

Advantages of Masters Nursing online Degree programs

Interestingly, today more and more schools are offering Masters Nursing online Degree programs due to the increasing demand and flexibility. While some students may choose online programs owing to its convenience, others do so because it is the only option they have. In fact, a study by the US Department of Education revealed that students enrolled in online education programs performed better and had superior learning outcomes compared to students enrolled in campus-based programs. Let’s have a look at some of the benefits that online Nursing Masters degree programs offer.

• Liberty to complete the course from anywhere

An internet connection is all that you need to view lectures and complete the work from anywhere and anytime as per your convenience. This can be a boon for students who may have to relocate suddenly or have other responsibilities to take care of.

• Few colleges allow you to take up two courses at a time thereby allowing you to complete your masters in two years.
• Have access to recognized faculty and exceptional e-learning environment
• Use dedicated email systems and message boards to communicate with your classmates and professors.
• Same curriculum and degree as classroom-based students

Some of the best schools offering online nursing Masters Degree programs are:-

• The Medical University of South California, Charleston, SC
• The University of Colorado, Aurora, CO
• George Washington University, Washington, DC
• The University of Texas-Tyler, Tyler, TX
• Duke University, Durham, NC
• Rush University, Chicago, IL
• University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV
• Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR
• Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY
• The University of Kansas, Kansas City, KS
• The University of Memphis, Memphis, TN
• University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH
• Duke University, Durham, NC
• Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI
• St. Xavier University, Chicago, IL

You may look up the website of the schools offering Masters Nursing online Degree Programs in order to compare their ideologies and curriculum. A thorough research will help you be aware of the current education scenario and take an informed decision.

It is evident from above that Masters nursing online degree programs offer the same kind of benefits and job opportunities as that of campus-based programs. The BLS, in its Occupation Outlook Handbook for 2016-17, predicts a high rate of career prospects in nursing in the coming years. You can make the most of the situation by earning a degree now and land a job in the next two years!