6 Things to Know About Earning Your Master of Science in Nursing Degree Online

With busy schedules nurses can struggle to find the time to pursue advanced degrees. However, through an online graduate nursing program from an accredited university, an advanced degree can be achieved. Pursuing an online Master of Science in Nursing degree has many benefits, including the ability to specialize in a specific area of interest such as nursing administration or education. A typical online nursing master’s program will take about two years of full-time work to complete, but with the flexibility needed to manage personal and professional responsibilities.

When pursuing a nursing master’s degree online, here are six things to consider:

1. Requirements for Admission

While every school has its own requirements, in general a state Registered Nurse license and a bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited school are required. Additional documents may also be required for admission, including a letter of recommendation and an admissions essay.

2. What Are the Costs?

The cost of earning your nursing master’s degree varies by institution. For example, a nursing master’s degree from Norwich University will cost about $7,600 per semester. This cost includes fees for textbooks and 24/7 technical support to ensure you have everything you need to be successful in the program. There are many options available for individuals looking for financial assistance, including grants, loans, scholarships and military benefits.

3. How Much Time Does It Take?

Online degrees are designed to be completed in eighteen months to two or more years. The rigor of an online program requires about the same amount of time as a traditional on-campus program; however, online courses provide the flexibility many working professionals require – to study anywhere, anytime.

4. Program Outcomes

There are many types of online nursing master’s programs available. Choosing a program is dependent on a nurse’s individual goals. Some focus on more practical aspects such as being a nurse practitioner, while for others, the degree is a step towards earning a PhD. At Norwich University, our focus is on preparing nurses for leadership roles. Many Norwich alumni have gone on to become educators, administrators, consultants, health policy specialists and nurse managers at hospitals, government agencies and pharmaceutical companies.

5. Convenience and Enhanced Learning Experience

Degree programs are offered online so students can fit them into their lives while continuing with work and other personal obligations. Additionally, for convenience and enhanced learning, students can take a single class at a time. To help students increase their overall learning experience, some programs provide the opportunity to study with small groups, giving you the ability to interact and network with students from diverse backgrounds and from across the country.

6. Support

When you study online, you are not on your own. Many institutions provide dedicated support throughout your time as a student to help you achieve your goals. This can include student service advisors, course instructors, as well as fellow classmates – all who are available to provide help and encouragement as your work towards your degree. Additionally, with many institutions, a help desk is readily available to help with any technical issues.

Learn More

Norwich University has been a leader in innovative education since 1819. Through its online programs, Norwich delivers relevant and applicable curricula that allow its students to make a positive impact on their places of work and their communities.

Norwich University’s online Master of Science in Nursing program helps students hone their knowledge and skills to assume leadership positions in healthcare systems, nursing informatics or nursing education. The program aims to develop students who could take a role in shaping health policy, in educating other nurses and healthcare professionals, and in providing advanced care to their patients. Norwich’s online nursing program coursework has been developed based on guidelines by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, and the program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Sources

Master's Education, American Association of Colleges of Nursing

Tuition Information, Norwich University

Homepage, MastersinNursing.com