High school can be a tough but rewarding experience. For any students that are stepping into their final years, the added pressure of trying to identify and locate a college program that fits their goals and aspirations can be quite a added burden. At the same time, the freedom to finally decide and explore one’s potential beyond the bounds of secondary education is also exhilarating— so long as someone knows what they want to pursue.
For all the career paths out there in the workforce today, the medical industry is by far one of the most consistent and best performing marketplaces for employment demand, job placement, and great starting salaries. Any high school student that has great grades, a strong work ethic and an interest in helping people should take the time to consider nursing degrees. However, being that there are a number of paths to choose from, selecting the right nursing degree program can be intimidating.
Here are some key factors to consider and what to consider when researching nursing degree programsbefore graduation.
The Benefits of Early Exploration
Taking the time to consider and familiarize oneself with the variety of nursing programs available helps to paint a picture not only of the field generally speaking, but also the unique expressions that are not as culturally identifiable. Without a broad approach, someone may miss out on a niche field that aligns with their personality and goals.
While there are a few general degrees, such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), and Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs, there are extensions to these degrees. In understanding the differences between these programs, a student can make a more informed decision about which path may best align with career aspirations.
Secondly, early exploration prepares someone to have more time to research and compare various nursing schools and their offerings. There are so many important factors to think through: whether the program is accredited, the respectability of curriculum, if there are clinical research opportunities, the type of student and faculty expertise, or just job placement rates.
Taking time to consider each of these helps to ensure the selection of a sound, credible nursing program that best aligns with personal interests and career goals.
Curriculum and Specializations Offered
When taking the time to research nursing programs the consideration of future potential specializations as they relate to certain degrees is important. Some degrees are required for various specializations, and others will do a better job of preparing someone for master or doctoral programs. There are over one-hundred different types of nursing jobs so there is no shortage of niche expressions, but knowing this can be overwhelming in terms of knowing where to start looking.
The best approach is to begin broadly, looking for programs that offer a comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of nursing topics, including clinical skills, patient care, and evidence-based practice. From there, later in one’s education, the opportunity to begin specializing will emerge, but having an idea of what interests someone comes from learning that it exists.
At this early stage of career exploration, it is more important to be clear about foundational elements of a program such as accreditation and reputation or whether an in-person or online formatting is best.
Researching Nursing Degree Programs Accreditation
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a nursing degree program is accreditation. Accreditation ensures that the program meets high standards of quality and is recognized by accrediting bodies in the field of nursing education. Look for programs that are accredited by reputable organizations such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Accreditation not only ensures the quality of education you will receive but also plays a role in the recognition of your degree by employers and licensing boards.
Additionally, the general success and reputation of a program is important. The bottom line is certain programs have a higher success rate than others. Educational experience is key to success, so researching a program’s reputation through research, talking with former students, alumni, or talking with healthcare professionals can provide an insider’s knowledge.
The stronger a program’s reputation, the more likely quality education. Those valuable clinical experiences, sound education, and networking opportunities can make a huge difference early in someone’s career.
The Importance of Planning Ahead
There is a lot to be done before graduation, and tacking on college visits on top of finals is going to be time consuming. However, becoming clear about important deadlines like preparing for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT, application cut-off dates, and compiling a list of application requirements can relieve much of the stress that comes from college searching.
Being sure to take full advantage of the various resources and support that high school provide like guidance counselors and school admissions officers will provide valuable insights, advice, and recommendations during the application processes.
