Online masters degree in nursing may benefit RNs

Online masters degree in nursing may benefit RNs

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), registered nurses (RNs) who wish to become advanced practice nurses, such as clinical nurse specialists, anesthetists, midwives or practitioners, must earn at least a masters degree. These professionals work either independently or in collaboration with physicians to focus on providing primary care services.

Due to a national shortage of individuals who are trained in this field, many online universities are expanding their healthcare-related course options to better serve working adults. For example, Kaplan Higher Education School of Nursing recently announced that it will be offering an online masters degree in nursing informatics specialization, as well as two new graduate certificates in nurse administration and nurse education.

The new masters degree program is designed to prepare nurses for clinical, educational, research and administrative challenges related to work in a technological environment. The specialization incorporates information technology management and system leadership techniques. Before completion of the program, students must participate in a practicum project that includes experiential learning in a healthcare setting.

Certificate program enrollees must have an RN license and a bachelors or masters degree in nursing. Both certificates may be completed in as few as six months.

"Our new online programs are designed to prepare nurses to achieve greater opportunities and to be thoroughly prepared to serve as leaders high-demand sectors of healthcare and education," said Sheila Burke, dean of the Kaplan Higher Education School of Nursing.

The BLS reports that top nurses in their field earned more than $92,240 during the 2008 fiscal year.

By Mark Danson