Accelerated Nursing Programs
There is a lot of talk right now about the nursing shortage and the effect it is going to have on health care services in this country. A large group of nurses that are currently practicing will be retiring in the next decade, leaving a huge gap in the number of nurses available to fill open positions. Many colleges and universities are attempting to address this issue by offering accelerated nursing programs to students who want to pursue a career in nursing. Eligible candidates must have a bachelor’s degree already in hand at the time of application, not related to nursing, and meet the minimum academic requirements for admission. Some accelerated nursing programs require students to complete a certain number of arts and sciences credits before they will be allowed to enter. Many programs are seeing a large number of students interested in the accelerated nursing programs so long waiting lists are not uncommon. This is why admission requirements are so stringent, to make sure that only the most qualified applicants are allowed into the program.
Most colleges and universities that offer accelerated nursing programs require that students be proficient, with a passing grade of C or a grade point average of no lower than 2.0, to graduate and apply for licensure. Accelerated nursing program curriculums provide the nursing student with the a solid foundation in general nursing subjects, like health assessment, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, biology, and caring for patients with various health issues in all age groups. Accelerated nursing programs also require students to complete a certain number of clinical hours in different health care settings, which complements classroom instruction and allows the nursing student to become comfortable and proficient in providing care to patients. Accelerated nursing programs differ from others because the students granted entrance to these programs have already completed a degree and they are familiar with academic processes. This is a great advantage, which is why accelerated nursing programs were created. These students know what is expected of them, they are usually older, and have great personal and professional experience as well. Academic institutions recognize this and develop their curriculum to attract these types of students.
Accelerated nursing programs are perfect for some one who is looking for a different career, and has always been interested in health care. After completion of the programs, graduate nurses are qualified to apply to sit for licensure in their state, and when they pass boards, they are granted a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Many credits will also transfer to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, for which there are also accelerated programs available for students who are working full-time and family obligations too. Just like anything else, not all accelerated nursing programs are created equal; some are better than others, and cost as well as curriculum varies. People interested in applying for an accelerated nursing program should research each one and make the best possible choice based on cost, length of curriculum, learning experiences offered, pass rate for licensure exams, accreditation, and overall reputation.
Nurses are probably the most in demand group right now, and it is a career that is quite rewarding. Not only do nurses make good money, but they get to help people every day of their workweek, and often set their own hours. Although it might seem overwhelming to train do be a nurse, with an accelerated nursing program you can greatly cut the amount of time it takes to become one, and be at it in your new career in no time. I had a friend who took one of the accelerated RN programs, and she is now practicing at a leading state hospital, enjoying her life more than ever. Although there are other ways to be a nurse than taking an accelerated nursing program, why would you want to dawdle when you could be part of this exciting profession today.
Of course, accelerated nursing programs are not for everyone. To really get the most out of an accelerated nursing program, you must be sure that you have the time to dedicate to your training. For example, if you work full time it is probably not even an option. You simply will not have time for an accelerated nursing program and your job, and there are so few of us who can afford to actually take time off of working, with the economy as it is. The good news is that, even if you cannot take an accelerated nursing program, you will probably be able to take classes at night to fit around your work schedule, and work towards your nursing degree at your own pace.
Although an accelerated nursing program is far less commitment than a full medical degree, it is still a good idea to make absolutely sure that nursing is what you want to do with your life before committing to it. You might want to talk to some nurses and find out about their jobs. Because of the shortage of nurses around the country, many hospitals will be most accommodating if you wish to ask them questions or interview their staff. You might even be able to sit in on a class at an accelerated nursing program to see what it is like, or perhaps to follow a nurse around and observe his or her workday first hand. That way, if you do decide to get into nursing and pursue it as a job, you will be completely ready.
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