How a Gap Year Can Help Students Discover Their Career Path
Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) is a noble and on-demand course to pursue if you have the calling to be a nurse. With the average salary of registered nurses in the United States rising steadily over the years, a successful ABSN program can open doors to a fulfilling career.
However, knowing what to look at when choosing a good online ABSN program can be daunting. Below, we look at some key factors you should consider when applying to an ABSN program.
State Approval and Accreditation
Choosing between ABSN degree programs should start with checking if the program of interest is approved and accredited by the State. No matter how convenient and affordable the program is, ensure it’s accredited by the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission (NLNAC) or any other state commission before you sign up.
Signing up for a non-approved or non-accredited ABSN program could render you ineligible for a licensed exam. This could affect your ability to apply for nursing jobs and build a nursing career. The accreditation is important as it puts together a collection of standards and criteria necessary for providing students with the right resources, teachers, field experience, and curriculum.
A Comprehensive Coursework
A good accelerated nursing course will prepare you for career advancement and a thriving professional life. To choose one successfully, check if the course offers students the training and curriculum needed to offer high-quality care.
The right ABSN course should also equip you for management roles, so check if it offers leadership and management training. Ask if your desired program covers nutrition, research, assessment, pharmacology, and health maintenance coursework. This way, you’re sure you’re signing up for a comprehensive program for high-quality results.
Options for Financial Help
ABSN programs can be costly, especially because they take a shorter course time than normal BSN programs. When looking for a perfect course, it’s important to settle for one that offers students several financial aid options and necessary advice.
The institution should guide students through the financial help process and provide them with the information needed to fund their courses. Some of the most common financial help options include grants, scholarships, and loans.
Personal Nursing School Needs and Wants
Creating a personal inventory showcasing your needs and wants gives you a clear picture of what to expect and the minimum threshold for an ideal course. Nursing students have different ambitions and goals, so you need to outline your needs early before signing up.
For example, students looking for a nursing course to start as soon as possible will pick an ABSN course from almost any university and list speed and accessibility as a top priority. However, students with plenty of time might have more items to include in their lists, including faith-based requirements. Whatever your unique needs are, write them down and cross-check against what the program you’re interested in offers.
Applying to an ABSN program doesn’t have to be daunting and confusing. All the schools you’re interested in must have accreditation and approval certificates before you proceed with checking other factors. Comprehensive coursework, financial help, and personal needs can follow in after ascertaining accreditation. It’s also important to seek guidance from close networks and experts before settling on a final choice.