For those interested in pursuing a nursing career, there are numerous higher education programs offering online nursing degrees to consider. A frequently asked question is: Will a degree from an online nursing program be considered legitimate by employers and accepted with respect in the workplace? This is a fair inquiry. Employers and potential co-workers want to know that new employees have the right credentials from rigorous, accredited programs, qualifying them to work in the nursing field. Looking at three factors influencing this topic may reveal some surprising information about the legitimacy of online nursing degree programs.
Factor #1: Learning Pathways
It’s what everyone thinks about when considering college: attending classes on a traditional campus, in brick and mortar settings, for a set number of years. The end result is earning a degree of choice that comes with pomp and circumstance and the stamp of approval from an accredited, educational institution recognizable to employers.
By contrast, the validity of online degrees offered through distance learning programs is often questioned. In fact, forms of distance learning have been around for over one hundred years, with educational institutions presenting degree programs through correspondence courses, radio broadcasts, and televised classes. Online programs, including those in nursing, are just the latest in a long line of distance learning options. Offered by many well-known colleges and universities, these programs provide the same rigorous curricula for online students as for those attending traditional classes.
Factor #2: Credibility
As far back as 2010, CNN conducted a study of employers, asking them what they thought about degrees obtained from online programs in general. Surprisingly, 83% responded that they viewed online degrees as credible as those obtained from traditional college programs. They based their decisions on these primary factors:
- The reputation of the educational institution conferring the degree.
- The institution’s accreditation.
- The history and quality of the institution’s graduates in the field.
With regard to online nursing degree programs, prospective students should make sure programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Factor #3: Variety and Flexibility
Nursing degrees of all types are available through online programs, as well as traditional school settings. Nursing career tracks often follow a path, with many students earning lower degrees first, then pursuing further studies once they begin working. For those who are currently working, pursuing this further education through online studies is often the most practical and affordable option for obtaining higher level nursing degrees. Types of online nursing degrees include:
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) – provides basic nursing care
- Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) – minimum requirement for becoming a registered nurse
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – full registered nurse
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – necessary for more specialized nursing positions
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or Doctor of Nursing Science (DNS) – oriented towards administrative, teaching, and researching roles
The factors explored here demonstrate that online nursing programs are on par with those offered through traditional college settings. Online degrees not only have a long history of distance learning success behind them, but many employers have rated them just as credibly as those earned through brick and mortar programs. Additionally, online nursing studies are available at all degree levels. With this in mind, potential nursing candidates can feel confident about obtaining online nursing degrees that will engender respect from employers and co-workers.