Since 2001, the nursing industry has embraced lawmakers’ petitions that more nurses obtain their bachelor’s degrees in nursing. The so-called “BSN in 10” initiative, backed by numerous professional nursing organizations, aims for legislation that would require new nurses to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing within 10 years of working in order to continue in the nursing field. The initiative is widely supported because of the changing nature of healthcare and increasing role of nurses, both inside hospitals and in outpatient facilities. Online RN to BSN courses stand to greatly support the aims of the proposed program. Not only do online courses complement the variability of an RN’s work schedule, but the courses also allow study from a variety of locations.
Study alongside work
In order to meet the goals of the BSN in 10 initiative, working nurses would need either to take time off for studies or to pursue their studies alongside their regular nursing work. For many full-time working nurses, a one- to two-year sabbatical isn’t financial feasible. For those RNs looking to balance study alongside their work, online courses make the option far more available to a larger number of nurses. Studies for most RN to BSN courses vary in duration with nurses able to complete the degree in as little as 13 months or longer if needed.
Increased overall flexibility
The BSN in 10 initiative aims to raise the standard of care, equipping RNs with skills to broaden their understanding and to take on leadership positions in healthcare. With coursework comparable to that found in traditional programs, online programs also offer one substantial benefit: for many working nurses, the online format provides unparalleled overall flexibility. Regardless of location and schedule, students can complete their studies from a personal computer.
Quality of training
When online degree programs were still in their infancy, potential employers may not have greeted them with the same response as degrees from brick-and-mortar institutions. However, online RN to BSN programs are widely recognized today, whether from well-known institutions or smaller schools. The curricula vary from one program to another but typically consists of a blend between nursing science and general subjects. These more generalized areas of study may include English and composition, mathematics, history, communication and general life/physical sciences.
In essence, the rise of online education may pave the way to the BSN in 10 initiative becoming a nationwide reality. At present, the initiative is not a requirement. However, several states including New York regularly resurrect the debate with many advocacy groups supporting the legislation. For RNs looking to comply with the initiative or more generally to advance their skills, online RN to BSN programs offer a flexible, highly regarded and well-rounded approach to earning a BSN.
Sources:
http://www.americannursetoday.com/bsn-in-ten/
http://www.aacn.nche.edu/publications/position/bacc-degree-prep
