How to Become a Nurse | Online Nursing Programs Courses, Classes, & Lessons 2023

Becoming a nurse requires not only an education but critical thinking skills and a caring attitude.

You must possess both the knowledge and the emotional intelligence to care for those in need.

So how do you prepare yourself for all of this?

First, you need to be prepared to dedicate time to your studies.

Nursing is one of those fields where every day comes with its own set of challenges, so it’s important that your foundation is strong enough to handle any situation.

Dedicate yourself to studying anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and other related courses that are necessary for success in the field.

Second, you must be ready to learn on-the-job skills while working as part of a team at a healthcare facility.

This means having the ability to listen, communicate and collaborate with others in order to provide the best care possible.

Lastly, don’t forget that nursing also requires a great deal of empathy and compassion.

Put yourself in your patient’s shoes, think about their needs, and be prepared to devote extra time or resources when necessary.

A successful nurse is one who takes the time to understand their patient’s needs and is willing to go above and beyond to ensure they receive quality care.

With the right attitude and preparation, you can become an exemplary nurse!

Good luck on your journey! And remember: nurses are not just caregivers – they are life-changers!

Why Should You Become a Nurse?

Nursing is an incredibly rewarding career that offers a variety of advantageous opportunities. As a nurse, you will be able to play a critical role in providing quality healthcare for people in your community. You will also have the opportunity to make meaningful connections with patients and their families as you help them through difficult times. Additionally, nurses are well-compensated for their hard work and dedication.

Nurses are in High Demand!

In recent years, the demand for nurses has been increasing drastically. The need for qualified medical professionals is greater than ever before and the job security that comes with a nursing career is unparalleled. By choosing to pursue a career in nursing, you can be sure that your skills will always be in high demand.

Nurses Make Good Money

Nurses are highly sought after, with salaries commensurate with the difficulty of their jobs. On average, nurses can earn between $50,000 and $90,000 each year, depending on their experience level and job title. Additionally, many employers provide bonuses for nurses who meet performance goals or exceed expectations.

How to Train to Become a Registered Nurse (RN)

Both the ADN and BSN paths to becoming an RN require completing an accredited nursing program and passing the NCLEX-RN exam. However, the BSN program typically takes longer and may involve more coursework and clinical hours. Both paths also require obtaining a nursing license and finding a job as an RN, and both offer opportunities for continuing education and professional development. The BSN program may also provide a more broad and comprehensive education in nursing, which can be beneficial for those who wish to pursue advanced nursing roles or specialize in a particular area of nursing.

There are a lot of things to think about when you want to become a nurse: Which degree should you get? Which license? What type of nurse should you become? It can be very overwhelming. That is why we have this guide. It has everything you need to know about how to become a nurse.

In order to become an RN, individuals must complete the proper education and training. Generally speaking, there are three paths to becoming a Registered Nurse: obtaining an associate degree in nursing, completing a diploma program or earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

The associate’s degree path is typically two years long and is available at various community and junior colleges across the country.

The courses focus on developing foundational skills in the field of nursing and cover subjects such as anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, pharmacology, nutrition, and psychology.

Upon completion of this program, graduates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) before they can be certified by their state board of nursing.

Completing a diploma program is an option for those looking to enter the field quickly.

These programs are typically run by hospitals and provide hands-on training with clinical experience, while also covering topics like nursing theory, practice and patient care.

These programs usually only last between 1-2 years and after completing them, individuals must also pass the NCLEX-RN in order to be certified.

Finally, students can earn their BSN degree which is a four-year long program that covers everything from patient assessment to medical ethics to leadership skills.

Upon graduation of this program, graduates must still take the NCLEX-RN examination before they can become certified RNs.

Steps to becoming a nurse

The first step to becoming a nurse is getting a good education. You need to graduate from an accredited nursing program to become licensed in every state and the District of Columbia.

Choose a nursing path

Nursing can take you in many directions, from starting out as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) or licensed practical nurse (LPN) to become an advanced practice nurse such as a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) or a nurse practitioner (NP).

When choosing your career path, think about what type of environment you would like to work in and what type of patient population you’d like to treat. You may also want to consider the salary potential for each path since salaries can vary drastically.

As you contemplate your career path, consider the role that best aligns with what you want to achieve. If a team-oriented setting appeals to you, then a CNA or LPN/LVN may be the perfect choice for you.

On the other hand, if pursuing management responsibilities and overseeing systems is more of an interest, RN or advanced practice nurse positions should certainly remain on your radar.

Have a passion for nursing? Think about the type of training you’ll have to receive in order to be able to specialize. With so many different aspects of healthcare, nurses are often encouraged to focus on areas such as geriatrics or critical care. Consider your specialty and get the education needed for success!

Earn a degree or certificate

After you have chosen a nursing path, the next step is to pursue the necessary degree or certificate in order to become a nurse. You can find accredited programs at various community colleges, universities, and online schools.

The type of nursing degree you need to pursue your desired career path will vary depending on the role it prepares you for.

Nursing programs consist of both classroom instruction and clinical experience, giving you the opportunity to acquire hands-on knowledge, ask questions in real-life scenarios, observe how a medical facility operates, and connect with nurses.

Before enrolling in a program, consider how the nursing school will fit into your lifestyle if the program is on campus, do you have time to attend, and are you able to manage parking fees and permit costs?

Hybrid programs, which offer online coursework and clinical requirements in a medical setting in your community, may be available depending on the degree you seek.

Associate degrees allow you to enter the workforce sooner, however, employers may be more likely to hire someone with a bachelor’s degree since they have more comprehensive knowledge.

Many nurses who begin with an associate degree go on to earn higher degrees through tuition reimbursement programs offered by their employers.

Depending on the type of nursing degree you acquire, you will be eligible for the following roles: Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)/Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), Registered Nurse (RN), Nurse educator, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) and Advanced leadership and research roles.

Get licensed

Once you have successfully completed your educational program, the next step is to obtain a license. This requires taking an exam that tests both your knowledge and nursing skills. After passing the exam, nurses will receive licensure which is required for practice.

Find a nursing job

The nursing shortage is expected to persist, giving you plenty of job opportunities. You may have gathered some information on the different types of healthcare settings during your clinical experience—this can help you determine which environment suits you best.

Nurses are often employed in hospitals, medical offices, nursing homes and assisted living facilities, home health care services, schools, churches, government offices, community centers, military bases, non-profit organizations and clinics, and large corporate companies.

There are several options for finding a nursing job, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Applying directly to hospitals and clinics can be a good option, but competition for positions may be high. Using online job search websites and job boards can allow for a wide search, but there may be a large number of applicants for each position. Networking with other nurses and healthcare professionals can lead to job openings that are not publicly advertised, but may require building connections and relationships in the industry. Working with a staffing agency can provide temporary or temporary-to-permanent positions, but may not offer the same benefits and stability as a permanent position. Pursuing advanced education and training can lead to more specialized and higher paying positions, but may require additional time and financial investment.

Keep up with continuing education

To maintain your license, it is necessary to complete continuing education courses. These courses are typically taken every two years depending on the regulations of your state nursing board. Your board will be able to provide specific information regarding required hours and frequency of these courses. It is important to fulfill this requirement in order to remain an active nurse.

There are several options for keeping up with continuing education as a nurse, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Attending conferences and workshops can provide in-person learning and networking opportunities, but may be expensive and require time away from work. Taking online courses and webinars can be convenient and flexible, but may not have the same interactive and in-person learning opportunities as attending conferences or workshops. Earning an advanced degree can lead to more specialized and higher paying positions, but may require a significant financial and time investment. Participating in professional organizations can provide access to continuing education opportunities and resources, but may require membership fees and participation in events or activities.

Maximize your potential

Maximizing your potential as a nurse requires staying up-to-date and informed of the latest technologies and treatments in healthcare. Working on the front lines of healthcare also requires nurses to stay educated and apply themselves to advance their knowledge in specific medical and surgical fields. Pursuing nursing from a lifelong learning perspective sets you up for new opportunities, roles, and even specialized certifications. Specializing in a particular area of nursing grants you with more career opportunities that fit your interests and strengths. Certifications are also available to demonstrate advanced skillsets to employers. If you decide to further your nursing career, obtaining an advanced degree may qualify as a nurse practitioner or certified nurse midwife/anesthetist. These are just some of the ways you can continue training to become a nurse and maximize your potential. Taking these steps toward advancing your career will set you up for success in the long term as healthcare continues to evolve.

There are several options for maximizing your potential as a nurse, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Pursuing advanced education and training can lead to more specialized and higher paying positions, but may require additional time and financial investment. Seeking leadership and management positions can provide opportunities for advancement and increased responsibility, but may require additional education and training. Participating in professional organizations and networking events can provide access to resources, continuing education opportunities, and connections in the industry, but may require membership fees and participation in events or activities. Volunteering or working in different settings or with underserved populations can provide valuable experience and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others, but may require additional time and resources. Staying up-to-date with current best practices and developments in the field can improve patient care and enhance professional credibility, but may require additional time and resources.

Levels of Nursing

Nursing has multiple possibilities for upward mobility and specialization. With medical patients’ increasing demand for specialized care, nurses are able to boost their paychecks by boosting their education levels in order to meet that need.

What Kind of Nurse Do You Want to Be?

The education you need to get where you want to go

CNA Certified Nursing Assistant

• Education You Need: State-Approved Certificate or Diploma
• Time It Takes: 4 to 12 weeks

LPN Licensed Practical

• Education You Need: State-Approved Certificate or Diploma
• Time It Takes: 12 to 18 months

RN Registered Nurse

• Education You Need: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Time It Takes: 2 years or 4 years

APRN Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, Certified Nurse Midwife, Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist) NON-CLINICAL SPECIALTIES

• Education You Need: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
• Time It Takes: 2 years (post-graduate) or 4 years (post-graduate)

Entry-Level Nursing

If you have aspirations to become a nurse, there are numerous career paths available for entry-level nurses. You can even make use of bridge programs like LPN-to-RN and RN-to-BSN pathways that allow previous education and experience to be applied towards your degree. With so many options, which one is right for you?

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Registered Nurse (RN)

Advanced Nursing

For those seeking to pursue advanced nursing degrees, a bachelor’s degree is the initial prerequisite. Many students opt for obtaining their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from one institution and then seek out another school for earning an MSN; however, bridge programs offer a unique alternative: RN-to-MSN curriculums that allow individuals who are already registered nurses to obtain both degrees simultaneously from the same college! This offers learners with prerequisites completed considerable convenience due to its comprehensive structure.

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)

Nurse Practitioner (NP)

Nursing Informatics

Nurse Leadership / Nurse Administration

Clinical Nurse Specialist

Career changes within nursing

Career shifts within the field of nursing are possible with the right education and commitment.

With a master’s degree, you can pursue specializations such as midwifery.

Alternatively, certificate programs offer an accelerated route to earning degrees in specific specialty areas.

Additionally, both a master’s or doctoral qualification may be necessary for those wishing to become nurse educators or to pursue medical research.

With the right educational background and dedication, you can make a meaningful shift within the nursing field.

What skills do I need to be a nurse?

Nursing is a rewarding career that requires a number of skills and attributes.

Working in healthcare requires nurses to have strong interpersonal, communication, emotional intelligence, problem-solving, decision-making, critical thinking, and organizational skills.

In addition to these essential qualities, nurses must also be able to remain calm under pressure and be comfortable with long hours.

Pros and cons of being a nurse

A career in nursing can have good times and bad times. To decide if a career in nursing is right for you, think about how important different factors are. This will help you figure out if you can handle the challenges and get the rewards.

Pros:

• Nurses have the opportunity to work with a variety of patients, which can make for a rewarding and fulfilling career.
• Nurses are able to specialize in an area that interests them, such as pediatric care or geriatrics.
• Nurses often have flexible schedules and competitive salaries.
• Nursing can provide a sense of purpose and job satisfaction.
• Nurses have the chance to make a positive impact on people’s lives.

Cons:

• Nurses may be exposed to hazardous environments and contagious illnesses.
• Nursing duties can vary greatly from one shift to the next, which makes it difficult to maintain a stable routine.
• Nurses often have to work long shifts, which may lead to high levels of stress and fatigue.
• The nursing profession requires frequent education updates, which can be costly.
• Nursing jobs can be emotionally draining and unpredictable at times.

The job outlook for nurses

The nursing field is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations from 2020-2030, with an estimated 439,300 new jobs created. The demand for nurses will continue to increase due to various reasons such as aging populations and increased access to healthcare. Nursing roles in specialized fields such as geriatrics, critical care, and acute care are expected to grow the most.

Nurses are in high demand and those with a master’s degree will have the best job prospects.

With the right qualifications, experience, and commitment to patient care, nurses can make a real difference in people’s lives.

They have the opportunity to work in varying settings and specialize in an area that interests them.

Nursing is a rewarding and fulfilling career, with the potential to make a positive impact on people’s lives both now and in the future.

It provides nurses with great job satisfaction and stability, as well as competitive salaries. If you have the necessary skills and dedication, then a career in nursing could be right for you.

With the correct qualifications and dedication, nurses can make a meaningful shift within the nursing field.

With the right educational background and commitment to patient care, nurses have the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives.

They can pursue specializations such as midwifery or opt for an accelerated route with certificate programs.

Additionally, nurses may choose to become nurse practitioners or opt for a career in nursing administration.

Nurses may also decide to become in health education and promotion, or even teaching. to continue their studies.

With each additional qualification, nurses can advance their careers and increase their earning potential.

Where should you look for job growth?

As the demand for nurses continues to grow, it is important to understand where job growth can be found. Large cities with a high number of healthcare facilities are likely to have more nursing jobs available than rural areas. Additionally, specialized fields such as geriatrics and critical care are expected to experience the most job growth in the coming years.

How to find nursing jobs

When it comes to finding nursing jobs, there are a number of resources available. Many hospitals and healthcare facilities list job openings on their websites.

Additionally, job search engines such as Indeed can be used to search for nursing positions in your area.

Networking with other nurses or attending professional events can also help you find potential job opportunities.

What’s more, social media sites such as LinkedIn can be used to find job postings.

Find states with nursing needs

Certain states may have a higher demand for nurses than others. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services website offers information on nursing shortages in each state, which can help you determine where the need is greatest.

Military nursing jobs

The military also offers many opportunities for nurses. From the U.S. Army to the U.S. Navy, there are a number of positions available in the Armed Forces that can provide invaluable experience and excellent pay and benefits. These are just some of the ways you can train to become a nurse, find job openings, and take advantage of great opportunities. With the right qualifications and dedication, a career in nursing could be the perfect fit for you.

Become a healthcare volunteer

In addition to the formal qualifications required for a nursing role, potential nurses may also consider becoming healthcare volunteers. Volunteering in healthcare can provide invaluable experience and is an excellent way to give back to your community, as well as hone skills that could be useful when applying for future nursing roles. There are many organizations, such as the Red Cross and Medical Reserve Corps, that offer opportunities to volunteer in healthcare facilities or even participate in disaster relief efforts. Volunteering is a great way to gain experience while also making an impact in your community.

Make connections during clinical

During the clinical portion of nursing school, it is important to make connections and build relationships with colleagues. During this time, you will be exposed to a variety of nursing roles and have the opportunity to observe experienced nurses in action. Making connections during this stage can help you gain valuable insight into the inner workings of healthcare organizations and may even lead to job opportunities in the future.

15 Growing Nursing Specialties List

Finally, there are a number of growing nursing specialties that nurses can pursue. Here are 15 of the most popular and in-demand nursing specialties:

1. Gerontological Nursing

Gerontological nursing is a specialty that focuses on the care of older adults. Gerontological nurses work with elderly patients to address physical, mental, and social needs. They may work in hospitals, nursing homes, or other healthcare settings, and may be involved in preventive care, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation.

2. Psychiatric Nursing

Psychiatric nursing is a specialty that focuses on the care of patients with mental health conditions. Psychiatric nurses work with patients to assess and diagnose mental health conditions, develop and implement treatment plans, and provide support and education to patients and their families. They may work in hospitals, mental health clinics, or other healthcare settings.

3. Critical Care Nursing

Critical care nursing is a specialty that focuses on the care of critically ill patients. Critical care nurses work in intensive care units (ICUs) and other specialized units, and are responsible for managing complex patient care and providing life-sustaining support. They may work with patients who are recovering from surgery, suffering from severe injuries, or experiencing life-threatening illnesses.

4. Neonatal Nursing

Neonatal nursing is a specialty that focuses on the care of newborn babies. Neonatal nurses work with newborns who are premature, critically ill, or otherwise in need of specialized care. They may work in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), labor and delivery units, or other healthcare settings, and are responsible for providing physical, emotional, and developmental support to newborns and their families.

5. Pediatric Nursing

Pediatric nursing is a specialty that focuses on the care of children. Pediatric nurses work with children of all ages, from newborns to adolescents, and are responsible for providing physical, emotional, and developmental support to children and their families. They may work in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare settings, and may be involved in preventive care, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation

6. Women’s Health Nursing

7. Surgical Nursing

Surgical nursing is a specialty that focuses on the care of patients before, during, and after surgery. Surgical nurses work in operating rooms and other healthcare settings, and are responsible for preparing patients for surgery, assisting surgeons during procedures, and providing post-operative care. They may also be involved in patient education and the management of patient care teams.

8. Emergency Room Nursing

Emergency room nursing is a specialty that focuses on the care of patients with acute and life-threatening conditions. Emergency room nurses work in emergency departments and other healthcare settings, and are responsible for triaging patients, assessing and managing patient care, and providing life-saving support. They may work with patients who are experiencing trauma, heart attacks, strokes, and other emergencies.

9. Military Nursing

Military nursing is a specialty that focuses on the care of military personnel and their families. Military nurses work in military hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings, and are responsible for providing a wide range of healthcare services to active duty personnel, veterans, and their families. They may also be involved in emergency and disaster response efforts.

10. School Nursing

School nursing is a specialty that focuses on the care of students in educational settings. School nurses work in schools, colleges, and universities, and are responsible for providing healthcare services to students, including preventive care, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. They may also be involved in health education and the management of student health records.

11. Occupational Health Nursing

Occupational health nursing is a specialty that focuses on the care of employees in the workplace. Occupational health nurses work in industries and businesses, and are responsible for promoting the health and safety of employees, as well as preventing and managing work-related injuries and illnesses. They may also be involved in employee health education and the management of employee health records.

12. Home Health Care Nursing

13. Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS)

Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS) are advanced practice nurses who specialize in a particular area of nursing, such as pediatrics, gerontology, or mental health. CNSs work in a variety of healthcare settings and are responsible for providing patient care, conducting research, and leading initiatives and programs to improve patient outcomes. They may also work as consultants, educators, and mentors to other healthcare professionals

14. Nurse Practitioners (NP)

Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are advanced practice nurses who are qualified to diagnose and treat patients, as well as prescribe medications. NPs work in a variety of healthcare settings and are responsible for providing primary and specialty care to patients of all ages. They may work in collaboration with physicians and other healthcare professionals, and may specialize in areas such as family medicine, pediatrics, or gerontology

15. Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA)

By considering all these factors, nurses can make an informed decision about which nursing specialty to pursue and take the necessary steps to become certified in their chosen field. With a commitment to continuing education and professional development, nurses can create rewarding careers that are fulfilling personally and professionally.

Other advances that play a role in nursing

In addition to pursuing a particular nursing specialty, nurses can take advantage of numerous other advances that play a role in the field. Technology has opened up new possibilities for nurses in terms of patient care and monitoring. The use of mobile devices and telehealth technologies has made it easier for nurses to monitor patients remotely and provide more accurate diagnoses. Furthermore, the development of medical simulators and virtual reality technologies has enabled nurses to practice their skills in a safe environment.

Best Free Online Nursing Courses 2023

If you’re looking to take your nursing knowledge or career to the next level, a free online nursing certificate may be just what you need.

With so many options available, however, these certificates can quickly become expensive and time-consuming.

Rather than paying for an expensive course, you might want to consider taking advantage of one of the many high-quality free online nursing certificates out there.

Not only are they cost-effective, but they also provide a certificate at the end that attests to your mastery of the material covered in the course.

To make it easier for you, we’ve compiled a list of 10 of the best free online nursing courses available today! Perfect for anyone wanting to get ahead in their nursing career without breaking the bank!

Introduction to Integrative Nursing

The University of Minnesota offers a free online nursing course on Coursera as part of its Integrative Nursing Specialization.

This course is aimed at beginners and covers introductory topics in sixteen hours with three professors from the school.

By completing this course, students can earn an entire nursing specialization certification for free, which includes lessons such as What is Integrative Nursing, the Importance of Integrative Nursing, Principles of Integrative Nursing, Setting Patient Care Goals, and Implementation of Integrative Nursing.

The end of the course also offers a shareable certificate that can be added to your LinkedIn profile and shown off to potential employers. All-in-all, this is an incredible value for absolutely no cost!

Pros:

• Free online nursing course on Coursera as part of the University of Minnesota’s Integrative Nursing Specialization
• Aimed at beginners and covers a number of introductory topics
• Three different professors from the school teach the course
• Certificates offered at end to add to LinkedIn profile and show off to employers

Cons:

• Course requires 16 hours of time up front, with subsequent courses in the specialization taking six months total
• Tailored for beginner students, so those already familiar with nursing will not find new information here.

Understanding Clinical Research: Behind the Statistics

This free online nursing course from the University of Cape Town on Coursera is a great option for both new and experienced nurses.

It focuses on teaching students to understand clinical research and statistics, which is an important part of being a well-informed medical professional.

The course is self-paced and takes approximately 27 hours to complete, with many different start dates throughout the year.

After completing the course, students will have gained tangible skills that can be added to their LinkedIn profile along with a shareable certificate.

Lessons include Defining Study Types, Describing Your Data, Building an Understanding of Statistical Analysis, and Hypothesis Testing and Confidence Levels.

With this knowledge under your belt, you’ll be prepared to better comprehend medical research papers!

Pros:

• Self-paced course with many different start dates throughout the year
• Shareable certificate available upon completion of the course
• Learn tangible skills to better understand medical research papers

Cons:

• Estimated 27 hours of study time required to complete the course
• Less hands-on than some other nursing courses.

The Arts and Sciences of Relationships: Understanding Human Needs

This free online nursing course offered on Coursera provides students with a comprehensive overview of relationship management skills. With nearly 400 reviews and a 4.5 out of 5-star rating, this self-paced course is designed for beginners and can easily be completed in 32 hours or less.

Upon completion, students will receive a shareable certification that they can add to their LinkedIn profile as proof of successful completion.

Lessons focus on the Strategies & Skills Learning & Development System, helping nurses provide compassionate care to their patients. This course is highly recommended for anyone looking to develop their nursing career!

Pros:

• • Self-paced course, able to start whenever and engage with material at own pace
• • Comes with a shareable certificate upon completion
• • Focuses on developing relationship management skills
• • 4.5-star rating on Coursera

Cons:

• • May require some previous knowledge of nursing concepts
• • 32 hours is a long time for those who have limited time available in their schedule.

Disability Awareness and Support

This free online nursing course from Coursera, Disability Awareness for Nurses, is available in a self-paced format and can be completed in about seven hours.

It covers topics such as Accommodations and Assistive Technology and Accessible Design.

Upon completion of this course, students have gained valuable insight into how to assess the different needs that patients might have based on their disability and provide a supportive environment for disabled patients.

This course is ideal for nursing professionals who want to expand their skills when it comes to providing compassionate care to all people.

With over 240 students having rated this program with a 4.6/5 stars rating, it is an excellent choice for those interested in taking their nurse training further.

Pros:

• Free online course
• Self-paced format
• Taught by Mary Goldberg, a professor at the University of Pittsburgh
• Covers topics such as Accommodations and Assistive Technology, and Accessible Design
• Shareable certificate upon completion of the course
• Over 240 students have rated this program with a 4.6/5 stars rating

Cons:

• Course is only seven hours long and is not comprehensive
• No in-person instruction or support

Knowledge and Skills for Dementia Care

Knowledge and Skills for Dementia Care is designed to help students apply the SSLD approach to in-home support and long-term care of those with dementia.

Taught by A. Ka Tat Tsang, this self-paced course includes video lectures and quizzes that can be completed in approximately 29 hours.

Not only will students learn how to work with those with dementia, they will also receive a shareable certificate that can be added to their LinkedIn profile upon completion of the course!

This valuable skill sets nursing students up for success when it comes to providing compassionate care.

We recommend enrolling in this course if you’re looking to gain expertise in working with those who have dementia.

With a self-paced structure and a shareable certificate, this online nursing course can help you take the next step in your career.

Pros:

• Flexible self-paced course
• Shareable certificate for LinkedIn profile
• Learn how to apply the SSLD approach to those with dementia
• Compassionate care provided to patients

Cons:

• Limited amount of time (29 hours) to complete the course
• Might not be suitable for more advanced nursing students who are looking for more challenging course material.

FAQ

Can nursing be taught online?

Absolutely! You can find plenty of free online nursing courses to get you started in your career. Whether you’re just starting out or want to brush up on the latest advances in healthcare, these 10 best free online nursing courses for 2023 are sure to give you a leg up.

Which certificate is best for nursing?

The best certificate for nursing depends on your career goals, level of experience, and interests. If you’re just starting out, you may want to consider a basic Certificate in Nursing or a Practical Nurse Certificate. For more advanced practice, consider Earning an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse or Clinical Nurse Leader Certificate.

What is the shortest nursing course?

The shortest nursing course depends on the type of program you choose and your prior experience. Many programs offer accelerated options, allowing you to complete a nursing program in less than two years. If you already have a Bachelor’s degree, many programs offer a one-year bridge option. This allows you to combine previous studies with nursing courses and

What is the easiest degree to get in nursing?

Earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is one of the easiest degrees to get in nursing. This four-year program requires general education courses, as well as specialized courses specific to nursing and healthcare. If you already have a degree in another field, many universities offer an RN-to-BSN completion program, which is often accelerated and can be completed in one or two years.

Can I do a nursing degree without qualifications?

It is possible to enter a nursing program without prior qualifications, although many universities prefer applicants who have earned a college degree or previous healthcare experience. If you are starting from scratch, consider completing prerequisite courses such as Anatomy and Physiology before applying to a nursing program.

How long does it take to study certificate in nursing?

It generally takes one year to complete a certificate in nursing, although some programs may be longer or shorter. The length of the program will depend on your prior experience and educational goals. Many certificate programs allow students to customize their studies based on career interests, so they can choose whether to spend more time focusing on specific topics.

What are the 5 nursing certifications?

The five most popular nursing certifications are:

• 1. Registered Nurse (RN) Certification
• 2. Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse (CMSRN) Certification
• 3. Critical Care Nursing Certification (CCN)
• 4. Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Certification
• 5. Certified Public Health Nurse (CPHN) Certification.

What is the highest certificate in nursing?

The highest certificate in nursing is the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. This advanced program prepares nurses to lead healthcare organizations and clinical teams, while also improving patient outcomes. Earning a DNP requires a significant investment of time and effort, as most programs require at least three years of coursework and clinical practice.

Which course is closest to nursing?

The course that is closest to nursing is a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. This four-year program combines general education courses with specialized nursing classes, giving students the foundation they need to practice as registered nurses. BSN programs also prepare students for graduate studies in specialty areas such as midwifery and clinical research.

Can I fast track nursing degree?

Yes, it is possible to fast-track a nursing degree program. Many universities offer accelerated programs that allow students to complete their education in less time than traditional four-year degrees. Accelerated courses may be available online or at physical campuses, often with part-time schedules and flexible start dates.

Can I study nursing for one year?

Yes, it is possible to earn a nursing degree in one year. Many universities offer accelerated degree programs that allow students to complete their studies in less time than traditional four-year degrees. Accelerated courses may be available online or at physical campuses and often include part-time schedules and flexible start dates. Additionally, many universities offer bridge options for students with prior healthcare experience or a degree in another field.

What is the best way to study nursing?

The best way to study nursing is to create a study plan and stick to it. Developing an organized approach will help you focus on your goals and track your progress. Start by familiarizing yourself with the material you need to know and breaking it into manageable chunks. Then, create a schedule and dedicate time each day to studying the material, taking practice tests, and asking questions when you need help. Finally, reward yourself for your hard work by taking breaks and celebrating milestones as you complete them!