Online nursing degree offers credit for work experience

Online nursing degree offers credit for work experience

In the Institute of Medicine’s October report on the future of the nursing industry, the organization recommended that healthcare professionals seek higher levels of education and training. For working registered nurses (RNs), an online degree program may be a fast and convenient way to achieve this.

To meet the needs of individuals who wish to enhance their educational qualifications, Anna Maria College in Massachusetts will expand its RN-BSN program to offer an online nursing degree.

The online courses will cover holistic nursing care, which emphasizes the health of the patient’s mind, body and spirit.

In addition, the institution will recognize the time that nurses have spent in the workforce by granting them up to six credit hours toward their online nursing degree based on experience.

According to Anne Marie Catalano, director of nursing programs, over the next several years, more men and women will be entering the work force as RNs. “We are committed to helping our graduates stand out and position themselves for advancement and high-level success,” she says.

The Catholic liberal arts college is currently accepting applications for its online RN-BSN degree program. Classes will begin in January 2011.

By Mark Huntsman