subject: 4 Options In Nursing Degrees [print this page] Nursing has now become a full-fledged degree course. You have the option of taking up a bachelor's or a master's or a doctorate or an associates/diploma degree in nursing. These options have made a career choice in nursing a much more lucrative option. Starting with the lowest in the hierarchy we have:
*Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
This is offered by the community colleges right after high school or to those who have some diploma. The pay scales are about $16 for an hour and involve you to work under the supervision of a doctor. You are expected to monitor vital signs, feed the patients, change the IV drips, feeding the patient and maintain proper medical records.
*An Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN)
For those with financial constraints and little time to spare, an associate's degree serves the best purpose for them. This is a two year course and enables you to start earning immediately after, definitely quicker than taking up a four year Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. This course is available in the US; international students can apply as well. You can apply in your high school itself. It requires a SAT score of 940 at least. A student can study another two years later and earn a bachelor's degree eventually so it suits those with little time on their hands.
*Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Getting a Bachelor's degree ups your chances of getting a job. Most of the employers look for a people with bachelor degrees. A lot of universities offer BSN which is provided as a full-time four year degree course. If you have done your ADN beforehand then it gives you an upper edge in making it to your dream university to finish your Bachelor's degree, after which you get placed as registered nurses. But do not expect o get specialization right away. With only a BSN you may be required to do grunge work at the hospital as well.
*Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
A Master's program in nursing typically lasts for about 24 months. A person with a Bachelor's degree in nursing or in some cases a person who's earned ADN can pursue a Master's program. This allows you to specialize as a:
oClinical Nurse Specialist
oNurse Practitioner
oNurse Anesthetist, after completion of your MSN you can sit for your separate certification exam.
Above are the many options you can check out and build a promising career in the healthcare industry.
