Over the last several years, online education has grown greatly, allowing people to advance their education and make career changes from home. As a result, even fields in healthcare are adjusting traditional, in-person programs to meet the changing needs of students and professionals in the field.
Different online programs exist for those wanting to earn a BSN, or Bachelor of Science in Nursing, but for registered nurses looking to advance their career, an MSN, or Master of Science in Nursing, is essential. At Northeastern University’s School of Nursing, you can choose the modality that best suits your work-life balance.
“Online graduate nursing study provides nurses the opportunity to advance their career and maintain a work life/family balance. Many nurses are established in their place of employment and on-line study provides them an opportunity for advancement and yet, continue to work at bedside as needed. It is student friendly,” says Professor Joanna Sikkema, Director of the Nurse Practitioner Online Suite at the Bouvé College of Health Sciences School of Nursing.
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In-Person vs. Online Nursing Programs
When choosing between and online or in-person nursing program, there are some key differences to consider, including:
- Interactions with fellow learners: When working through an online program, it’s no shock that the type of interaction with your peers is different. Instead of sitting in a classroom together, you will likely be communicating with your fellow learners through discussions on an online learning platform.
- Technology requirements: Part of choosing an online program is understanding the technology requirements necessary for success, including having access to a working computer and internet.
- Amount of self-motivation: In an online program, you must motivate yourself to complete your readings, studying, and assignments on time without a traditional classroom setting. Identifying how you best learn and engage is important to determine if online learning will be a successful modality for you.
5 Benefits of Online Nursing Degree Programs
Understanding the differences between an in-person and online nursing program, let’s dive into the benefits of choosing an online program.
1. Convenience: Choosing to join an online nursing program offers a level of convenience learners can’t get through an on-ground program, such as the ability to take your classes from the comfort of your own home through a university that may be outside of your city or even state.
2. Flexibility: Online MSN programs offer flexible scheduling options, allowing students to balance their studies with professional and personal responsibilities.
3. Different Learning Formats and Styles: In choosing an online program, you will often also have the choice between part- and full-time enrollment, which will impact how quickly a degree can be achieved. On one hand, full-time study allows for immersion and faster completion—often taking two years. On the other hand, part-time study can extend your education to three or four years—particularly to complete any required clinical hours. However, part-time options do offer flexibility for working professionals who may not be able to commit to a full-time schedule.
4. Low Cost: Cost plays a big part when it comes to choosing whether or not to pursue an advanced degree. By opting for an online program, learners can earn their degree and avoid having to pay university fees that in-person learners do. Students can also save money on meals and gas by learning at home.
5. Independence: If you work best alone, choosing an online nursing program offers a level of independence not typically found through traditional on-ground programs.
Start Your Journey of Advancing Your Career in Nursing
If you’re looking to advance your nursing career, the first step is deciding whether an online or in-person program is best for you. While traditional, in-person programs provide dynamic classroom environments where students can engage face-to-face with faculty and peers, online programs offer greater convenience, flexibility, and independence.
At Northeastern University’s School of Nursing, our programs are tailored to not only increase your earning potential and empower you to make significant contributions to healthcare but also offer modality options that best fit your life. If you’re interested in earning an MSN degree at Northeastern University, contact an admissions counselor to explore program options.
