Online nursing degree program wins state award

Online nursing degree program wins state award

Before one commits their time and effort to an online education, it is important to select a program with a strong reputation. Individuals who plan to pursue a nursing degree may be interested in a recently honored collaborative program that is offered by four Illinois community colleges.

The Northern Illinois Initiative for Nursing program was recently awarded the state’s 2010 Council of Community College Administrator’s Innovation Award, reports the Journal-Standard.

This program combines online and on-site learning for students, who receive an associate’s of applied science in nursing degree upon completion. In addition, these individuals will qualify to take the national registered nurse examination.

Kishwaukee, Rock Valley, Highland and Sauk Valley Community Colleges came together to develop the program. Enrollment is limited to 10 students from each institution.

Each week, students take instructional online courses for about 30 hours, complete a minimum of two clinical experiences in a campus lab or hospital setting and take exams.

A regional nursing shortage influenced the colleges’ decision to offer the online courses, in addition to a lack of instructors with master’s degrees. This trend is sure to continue as more healthcare educators retire, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing reports.

By Mark Huntsman