Online schools aren’t for everyone, but they might be right for you. Many programs allow you to graduate more quickly than traditional schools and avoid certain costs—such as gas, parking fees, lab fees, and more—that are associated with campus life (especially if you’re attending a school away from home).
How Do Online Schools Compare With Traditional Schools?
Online degrees also have very similar graduation rates when compared to on-campus degrees: Online bachelor’s degree completion rates were 95 percent between 2009 and 2012 (the most recent data available) compared to on-campus bachelor’s degree completion rates of 93 percent during that same time period. The takeaway?
A nursing degree earned online is just as reputable as one earned through a brick-and-mortar school.
What Is a BSN?: Registered nurses with an associate degree or diploma can advance their careers by earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which usually takes about two years to complete.
Read Also: How to Choose an Online Nursing Degree Program
An online BSN program allows students to earn their degrees while working full-time, making it ideal for RNs who want to advance their careers without quitting their jobs. Students will learn about topics such as advanced pathophysiology, leadership skills, and health care policy along with other foundational material required by all nurses.
After completing an accredited program, graduates must pass both a national exam and a state board exam before becoming licensed. Some states may require additional exams after licensure. Accreditation doesn’t guarantee employment; however, employers typically look favorably upon accredited degrees.
How Do I Choose Between Traditional Schools vs Online Schools?: To choose between traditional schools vs online schools, ask yourself this question: How long do I want to go to school?
If you’re looking for flexibility and convenience, online classes could be a good fit for your busy schedule; however, if you enjoy socializing with classmates or learning in person rather than virtually, consider attending classes on campus instead. After all, some people find that face-to-face interaction enhances their learning experience! Are my finances flexible enough to afford tuition?
Read Also: Find Out What the BSN Nursing Program Is All About
Cost is a major factor in deciding whether to attend an online school or a traditional school. According to College Board, annual tuition at public four-year colleges increased by 3.8 percent each year between 2008 and 2017 (from $7,605 to $9,970). Private nonprofit four-year colleges saw even higher increases: Annual tuition rose 4.3 percent each year over that same time period (from $28,500 to $35,800). However, because many online schools don’t charge room and board fees—which are often expensive at traditional universities—online programs can save you money overall!
Taking courses online may be your best option because it lets you balance work and class schedules easily. Click here for more information.