School offers online degree for registered nurses

The Indiana University East School of Nursing has created online courses for nurses who have already passed their board exams and wish to obtain a bachelor's degree.

All eight of the university's campuses will offer students the option for the online degree that is convenient and easy to schedule for registered nurses who are working. Karen Clark, the school's dean of nursing, says "the benefit is now registered nurse students have another option to pursue their bachelor's of science in nursing (BSN) degree." The school also has a "rolling admissions" plan through which students can start the online courses anytime throughout the year. The program can be fully completed online within one year.

The new online degree for nurses comes as industry numbers steadily climbs. According to the BLS, nurses in the healthcare industry can expect to see a 22 percent increase in job opportunities over the next eight years. The BLS also reports that nurses hold 21 percent of all jobs within this field.

Registered nurses who obtain an online degree can further themselves within the healthcare industry and make more money without changing their current lifestyle. According to Payscale.com, nurses who hold BSN degrees can make about $10.00 more an hour than those without one.

By Stephanie Hughes