Why Earn an RN-BSN Online Degree?
An RN-BSN degree program is geared towards licensed, registered nurses who are interested in furthering their administrative career. Graduates of this program learn additional clinical skills, which helps them to better perform their daily responsibilities; develop their critical-thinking and decision-making skills; and learn the leadership skills necessary to obtain administrative and managerial positions. Since nurses often work nontraditional hours, an online program will fit in with their schedules much easier than an on-campus program.
Career Possibilities
BSN Occupational Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov) the job outlook for registered nurses is excellent. Because the population continues to age, and since there are fewer nurses replacing those who are retiring, graduates of an RN-BSN program can expect the job growth rate to continue to be faster than average well into the future.
BSN Salary Information
The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the median annual salary for registered nurses as $52,330. Nurses who work in clinical settings, such as hospitals, earn higher salaries than nurses employed in physicians' offices.
Degree Specifics
Coursework Required for an RN-BSN Online Degree
Coursework in an RN-BSN degree works largely from the background that a nurse should already have obtained from his or her previous RN training. The final semester of this program will usually include a senior thesis on a topic of the student's choosing. Typical classes in an RN-BSN program include:
- Management in Nursing
- Professional Nursing's Modern Issues
- Global Health
- Nursing Ethics and Regulations
- Genetics in Nursing
Skills Obtained in an RN-BSN Online Degree
Graduates of an RN-BSN online degree should be able to continue successfully completing their duties as a practicing nurse, as well as accepting further responsibility in administration or management. Skills needed to become a nursing leader include:
- Full understanding of nursing clinical practices
- Ability to manage others
- Advanced organizational skills
- Knowledge of their state's regulations regarding nursing practices
