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(Source: Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2009)
Most training programs, lasting about 1 year, are offered by vocational or technical schools or community or junior colleges. LPNs must be licensed to practice. Successful completion of a practical nurse program and passing an examination are required to become licensed.

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Education and Training
All States and the District of Columbia require LPNs to pass a licensing examination, known as the NCLEX-PN, after completing a State-approved practical nursing program. A high school diploma or its equivalent usually is required for entry, although some programs accept candidates without a diploma, and some programs are part of a high school curriculum.

In 2006, there were more than 1,500 State-approved training programs in practical nursing. Most training programs are available from technical and vocational schools or community and junior colleges. Other programs are available through high schools, hospitals, and colleges and universities.

Most year-long practical nursing programs include both classroom study and supervised clinical practice (patient care). Classroom study covers basic nursing concepts and subjects related to patient care, including anatomy, physiology, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, obstetrics, psychiatric nursing, the administration of drugs, nutrition, and first aid. Clinical practice usually is in a hospital but sometimes includes other settings.

Licensure

The NCLEX-PN licensing exam is required in order to obtain licensure as an LPN. The exam is developed and administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. The NCLEX-PN is a computer-based exam and varies in length. The exam covers four major categories: safe and effective care environment, health promotion and maintenance, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity.

Other qualifications. LPNs should have a caring, sympathetic nature. They should be emotionally stable because working with the sick and injured can be stressful. They also need to be observant, and to have good decision-making and communication skills. As part of a health-care team, they must be able to follow orders and work under close supervision.

Advancement
In some employment settings, such as nursing homes, LPNs can advance to become charge nurses who oversee the work of other LPNs and of nursing aides. Some LPNs also choose to become registered nurses through numerous LPN-to-RN training programs.

April 20, 2009 · Careers, Lpn Programs Online, Nursing

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics -

Median annual earnings of registered nurses were $57,280 in May 2006. The middle 50 percent earned between $47,710 and $69,850. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $40,250, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $83,440. Median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of registered nurses in May 2006 were:

Employment services $64,260

General medical and surgical hospitals 58,550

Home health care services 54,190

Offices of physicians 53,800

Nursing care facilities 52,490

Many employers offer flexible work schedules, child care, educational benefits, and bonuses.

Here are some more careers associated with Nursing for a good overview on your expected salary earnings.

Assoc. Professor – Nursing

Starting around $45,700 with an average earnings of between $55,000 and $96,000 per year. An Associate Professor for Nursing courses is responsible for preparing lesson plans and teaching classes for Nursing related degrees.

Certified Nurse Anesthetist

With a starting salary of around $125,000 and an average salary of $134,000 to $154,000, a Certified Nurse Anesthetist is responsible for preparing and administering anesthetics before and during surgical procedures. This career requires a Master’s degree in nursing and further certifications and industry experience.

Certified Nursing Assistant

A Certified Nursing Assistant can expect a starting salary around $22,000 per year, and an average salary around $23,000 to $28,000. Responsible for various direct patient care under the supervision of a Registered Nurse, the Certified Nursing Assistant assists patients and collects non-invasive specimens. They are also required to monitor vital signs and document patient interactions. Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant requires completing a certification course.

Clinical Nurse Specialist

Earning a starting salary of around $68,000, dependent on the local demand for the position, Clinical Nurse Specialists are required to assess a healthcare facilities nursing practices and give recommendations to increase the effectiveness of patient care. This position usually requires a Master’s degree as well as a minimum of five years experience.

Licensed Practical Nurse

Averaging between $35,000 and $43,000 per year, a Licensed Practical Nurse administers patient care under the supervision of a Registered Nurse. This position requires certification as a licensed practical nurse.

Nurse Practitioner

With an average salary ranging between $75,000 and $88,000 per year, a Nurse Practitioner is a career that is, in my mind, only a few steps away from being a Doctor. Becoming a Nurse Practitioner requires a Master’s degree as well as national board certification.

School Nurse

With a starting salary of $26,000 per year, and an upper limit of around $64,000 per year, School Nursing salaries encompass a wide range, depending on the location of the position and the local need. As a School Nurse, you would be responsible for administering health care under the guidelines of the school system.

Staff Nurse – Registered Nurse

With a starting salary of around $50,000 per year, Staff Nurses are required to plan, implement and document nursing care for their assigned patients. They also can assist Doctors and physicians during examinations and procedures. To become a Registered Nurse, you’ll have to get an Associate’s degree or higher, as well as take a certification test. Depending on your interest there are various specialities and areas you can focus your career as an RN towards, including research, surgical, psychiatric, triage, and more.

Choose the Best Nursing Degree Programs Offered By the Top Schools!

About this page: We provide an overview of nursing salaries that prospective students of online nursing degree programs can expect when they complete their degrees.

April 19, 2009 · Careers, Nursing, online nursing degrees

The following is an overview of the different types of nursing programs – online or campus based:

1. LPN or LVN

Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nursing (LVN) programs typically involve one year of training at a hospital, vocational technical school or community college. Graduates are eligible for licensure as an LPN or LVN after receiving their diploma or certificate. To earn an LPN license, you must pass a state administered nursing examination called the NCLEX-PN® examination.

2. LPN to BSN

This program offers the licensed practical nurse or licensed vocational nurse (LVN) the opportunity to attain the BSN degree in just four academic semesters.

3. Associate of Science (AS) in Nursing

The 2-year associate degree focuses more on technical skills than theory and for 30 percent of ASN graduates, it is their stepping stone to a BSN. It allows a student to become a Registered Nurse (RN) and earn money more quickly than a 4-year BSN program, so it works better for many students. It is the entry point for technical nursing practice.

4. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The 4-year BSN degree is preferred by most nursing leaders and provides the best opportunities in today’s job market. If you look at job postings, you’ll find that a BSN degree is a requirement for many positions. It is the entry point for professional nursing practice. Typically the first one to two years of the program are spent fulfilling general education requirements, while the last two to three years are spent on nursing courses.

5. RN-to-BSN

This is a program designed for Registered Nurse graduates of associate degree or diploma programs who want to complete their BSN degree. It provides credit for nursing skills already learned through school or work experience. Most often these programs are available with a very flexible schedule designed to meet the needs of working nurses. Classes might meet only evenings or weekends. Some schools have “RN-only” classes which are separate from classes taught to pre-licensure students.

Several online RN-to-BSN programs are available. These programs are also known as Bridge Programs, BSN for RN’s, Completion Programs, Nursing Mobility in Education Programs, Advanced Placement, Advanced Standing, or Transition Options. Approximately 30 percent of BSN graduates annually come from RN-to-BSN programs.

6. Second Degree BSN

Second Degree BSN programs are designed for non-nurses who have bachelor’s degrees in non-nursing fields. These programs will give you credit for having completed your liberal arts requirements, allowing you to complete the nursing portion of your coursework (and earn your BSN) in two academic years or less.

7. Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

A master of science in nursing degree is an 18 – 24 month program that allows a nurse to specialize in a particular area, such as an area of advanced clinical training or research. Some students take on joint degrees in related fields like business administration, public health or hospital administration. Most people working towards an MSN already have a BSN, but there are accelerated programs for ADN nurses to earn a BSN and MSN in one shot, or for non-nursing college graduates.
Typical requirements include a BSN from an accredited nursing school, an RN license, minimum GPA and GRE scores, and some period of clinical work experience. Each school has its specific requirements, so make sure to check with them before applying.

8. Nursing Doctoral Programs

Nurses with doctoral degrees are expected to have tremendous job demand over the next ten years. These programs prepare nurses for careers in health administration (a PhD is the preferred degree for nursing executives), clinical research, and advanced clinical practice. The programs take from four to six years to complete, so they represent a significant commitment on your part.

In a doctoral program everyone receives training in research methods (including statistics and data analysis), the history and philosophy of nursing science, and in leadership skills. But it’s up to you to focus in on a specific research area for your degree. Compared to a BSN or MSN, it’s important to match your particular interests with those of a particular faculty member.

Accredited online nursing degrees are hot! The reason is because
registered nurses are projected to create the second largest number of new jobs among all occupations; job opportunities in most specialties and employment settings are expected to be excellent, with some employers reporting difficulty in attracting and retaining enough RNs.

The number of searches each month performed in Google is continuously rising. Here are the top accredited online nursing schools with links for additional information.

1. Walden University

Walden U. is for working professionals who desire an advanced degree while maintaining career & personal commitments. Walden’s flexible, student-centered education allows you to earn a master’s or Ph.D. from the convenience of your home or workplace.

2. Kaplan University

The world is looking for talented professionals with real-world experience. Kaplan University can help you develop that talent. We’re an accredited university with more than 100 degrees and programs. Yet the approach to education is a bit nontraditional. We believe a university should adapt to its students, not the other way around. Our classes fit around your schedule. The professors bring real-world expertise and provide you with the academic support you need.

3. University of Phoenix

UOP was one of the first accredited universities to offer degree programs online. With more than a decade of experience in Web-based delivery, our online format has been perfected and proven effective for thousands of successful graduates.

University of Phoenix degree programs are designed in collaboration with academic and industry professionals to ensure quality, relevance and rigor. Our curriculum is regularly updated to reflect the latest proven concepts, methods and practices.

4. Gonzaga University

Founded in 1887, Gonzaga University has been committed to developing excellent leaders. In response to society’s growing need for value-based, visionary leadership, Gonzaga University’s Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership was established in 1986

5. Chamberlain College of Nursing

The tradition of quality education and professional preparation now includes a web-based delivery of RN to BSN completion degree and an LPN to ASN degree.

About this page: This page is a listing of distance learning and online nursing degrees offered by accredited online colleges and online universities. The online nursing degrees listed above may be delivered using a variety of online and distance learning technologies allowing you to study from home or work; however, some may require on-campus time. Check each degree’s requirements and request information to learn more.

The shortcut to see all schools is here: Accredited Online Nursing Degrees

There are many quality nursing programs around the country which allow you to get your nursing degree from a school that is in your state or local area. Before picking a nursing school, make sure that it is well reviewed and accredited. Also make sure that they have a reputation not just of book smarts but also of giving their students plenty of hands on experience.

1. University of Washington, Seattle

The University of Washington at Seattle has a long history of excellence. The school has an award winning research record and offers cutting edge technology to their students. The educational goals of the school include providing a new generation of nurse educators as well as skilled nurses for the various health fields currently experiencing a short fall of trained professionals. The school offers 19 master’s degree specialties. Graduates and nurse professionals can benefit from the numerous continuing education courses offered and taught by experts in the fields.

2. University of Pennsylvania

The Penn nursing program offers a unique, state of the art, nursing program with the latest technologies available to provide the best possible nursing education. Penn has a lab with mannequin patients nursing students are able to use for practice. The mannequins respond as real patients would. Additionally, Penn’s school of nursing uses the Philadelphia Children’s hospital to teach and train their nursing students. The school also teaches their nursing students how to use the latest electronic medical record technology.

3. University of California; San Francisco

Recognizing the need for more skilled professional nurses, The University of California at San Francisco has expanded their nursing program to increase the number of new students the school is capable of accepting. The program is based on the idea that teaching, research, and practice provide the groundwork for a skilled nursing workforce. The school offers advanced education programs helping nurses with associate’s degrees to obtain their bachelors and masters degrees. And the school offers nurses the opportunity to obtain a masters or doctorate degree in the field of nursing.

4. University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill strives to instill leadership qualities in their nursing students. Students of the nursing program are prepared for careers in various medical positions varying from entry level nursing to scientists or educators. The University emphasizes the need for research in advancing the capabilities and offerings of the medical field. Students can earn a two year BS degree in nursing or opt to pursue an advanced degree in the nursing fields. Individuals with bachelor degrees in other fields can earn a nursing degree in as little as 14 months. The school also offers continuing teach classes to keep their graduates abreast of the latest in the nursing field.

5. University of Illinois, Chicago

The University Illinois in Chicago offers a number of opportunities in terms of nursing education programs. The school’s faculty is leaders in the nursing field who teach from experience. Students are required to participate in clinical opportunities for hands on experience. The curriculum focuses particularly on practical experience as well as a comprehensive academic course curriculum. Admission to the program is competitive; ensuring students are surrounded with peers who are dedicated to learning.

6. Columbia University

Columbia University’s school of nursing is located on the prestigious Health Sciences campus of the University. The college boasts a practical clinic experience at the NY Presbyterian Hospital which is located at the school’s campus also. The school is proud to claim being the first in many aspects; first with a universal faculty nursing practice plan and first school named a WHO collaborating center for the international nursing development of advanced practice. Though the school doesn’t offer undergraduate nursing degrees, the advanced studies programs offer a superior accelerated program with many opportunities.

7. University of Texas, Austin

The University of Texas offers programs to obtain a bachelor of science in nursing, a Master of Science in Nursing, and Doctor of Philosophy and a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program. There are more than 70 students enrolled in the undergraduate nursing program. The school is involved in a number of research projects focusing on the more vulnerable populations; quality of life for disabled people, disease prevention in poorer communities. The school offers a nurse run clinic where students can provide a service to the community while earning practical experience.

8. University of Pittsburgh

University of Pittsburgh’s nursing program offers many learning opportunities and resources to their students. The school proclaims the program to be challenging and comprehensive. Students are expected to participate in a number of clinical experience offerings to gain experience in many areas of the medical profession. The school also offers research opportunities. Students can earn a bachelor or masters degree in nursing and can take advantage of continuing education offerings at the college after graduation.

9. Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins University school of Nursing seeks to provide skilled nurses who will become leaders in their fields. The program has a comprehensive curriculum which covers research, practical application, service, and academics. They endeavor to improve available health services both on the local and global fronts. Students have the option of entering the two year baccalaureate program or the accelerated 13.5 month program. Also offered are several master’s degree programs, PhD programs, and certificate programs.

10. Yale University

Yale is credited as the first school to offer an academic nursing program instead of the traditional apprenticeship programs. The school has continued in this pioneering tradition ever since. Yale provides many collaborative opportunities for students to learn and meet leaders in the health industry. The school has a reputation as a leader in nursing education and instills this quality in their students. Students and faculty work side by side in clinical environments as well as in research. Yale fosters an environment of discipline and hard work resulting in an education of distinction