It’s no surprise that colleges are racing to offer more online programs to keep up with demand, but a recent study (which recommended that all nurses hold a bachelor of science in order to practice) is putting online nursing programs into high gear.

According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, the number of online RN to BSN programs in the United States has grown by more than a third in the last two years. In 2007, there were 96 programs, and in 2009, that number jumped to 129.

This news got me thinking.

What exactly does an online nursing program entail?

I took a look at the online curriculum that one of our partner schools, Chamberlain College of Nursing, offers for RNs wishing to complete their BSN degree.

I first found that online RN-BSN students participate in experiential learning projects within their course work, but the curriculum does not include clinical work (remember, this is for people who are already nurses, so clinical work is essentially part of their day to day responsibilities). However, an online nursing program such as Chamberlain’s Associate Degree of Nursing allows students the flexibility to take the nursing and general education courses online from anywhere, but the clinical requirements are to be fulfilled in an intensive 4-day stint in Columbus, Ohio, which you coordinate through the school.

The online RN to BSN program includes the following classes:

• NR 351: Professional Transitions
• ENGL 135: Advanced Compositions
• NR 305: Health Assessment
• MATH 114: Algebra for College Students
• NR 448: Information Systems for Healthcare
• MATH 221: Statistics for Decision-Making
• SOCS 350: Cultural Diversity in The Professions
• NR 449: Evidence-based Practice
• NR 442: Community Health Nursing
• NR 446: Collaborative Healthcare
• ECON 312: Principles of Economics
• History Elective
• NR 450: Capstone Course
• Humanities Elective

Have you pursued an online nursing program? What was your experience like?

If you’re just thinking about getting your nursing degree online, let us help. Get matched to schools that give you the flexibility you need to pursue the career of your dreams!