Nursing is a great career option because you help patients who need your skills and expertise while getting a clear path for career progression. Becoming a nurse starts with earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at an accredited university. Choosing the right university is very important because it determines things like learning outcomes and the opportunities available once you complete the program. So, what should you look for when looking for a nursing school?
Accreditation
You should only select a school accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission (NLNAC). The accreditation means experts in the field have reviewed the nursing program and have approved it. For this reason, you know that the school will prepare you for the required levels and standards for a successful career in nursing.
Accreditation is also important because it determines whether you will be able to complete advanced nursing degrees. Most universities that provide master’s degrees in nursing require that students have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, so do not ruin your chances of future progress by not checking the school’s accreditation.
Course Flexibility
Most people attend in-person classes when earning their nursing degrees. However, that is not possible for everyone, especially those with demanding schedules or taking a degree while working. If you belong to either of these groups, flexibility should be a critical consideration.
The nursing school you choose should allow you to complete the degree online or asynchronously. An online degree lets you watch your lectures (attend classes), complete coursework, and interact with your classmates without visiting the classroom.
They also allow for a better experience for students who want special accommodations or have a different learning style for whom attending in-person classes would be too inconvenient.
Asynchronous learning allows students to learn in their own time without requiring interactions with the instructor. Most online degrees are asynchronous, making it much easier to fit them into a busy schedule. The courses at HCU nursing, for example, combine a blend of online and asynchronous learning to accommodate different learners, inducing those working as they earn their degrees.
Support and Mentorship
The nursing school you choose should also provide personalized support. Its staff and faculty should be available to mentor students while also providing quick responses and feedback. It would also be advantageous if the school had successful coaches to provide support and encouragement.
These programs ensure you follow the right path and continue receiving advice that helps you get the best outcomes while earning your degree and afterward.
Also, check whether the school has programs for support outside the classroom. In many cases, the people in these programs provide crucial networking opportunities and invaluable career advice, especially for students changing careers to nursing.
Choosing the right nursing school will ensure a great learning experience and access to opportunities, and you will have a support system inside and outside the classroom. It also makes it much easier to seek additional opportunities like an advanced degree in the future if you so desire.
