Accelerated Nursing Degree: Is It Right For Me?
There is currently a nursing shortage in the US due to increased ability for individuals to access healthcare and the Baby Boomer generation requiring treatment for age-related ailments. Many people want to join the healthcare field and help fill this gap, but a large concern is the amount of time spent in school. Thankfully, there are accelerated programs, which offer the same high-quality education, just on a quicker schedule. If you’re interested in becoming a registered nurse (RN), here’s some more information about how to do so faster than a traditional program would allow.
What is an Accelerated Nursing Program Like?
A traditional registered nursing program takes about two years to complete, if you follow the normal class route. Of course, it is always possible to take fewer classes at once in order to fit into a schedule, so this might stretch out to three years or so. Everyone has to do what is right for them and some people just don't have the available time or ability to focus on as many classes at once.
Now, on the flip side, an accelerated nursing program can finish in as few as 18 months, depending on previous college experience. That is at least six months faster than a traditional nursing program. Nothing is cut out and the same information is provided, just courses are more intense and go over the information faster. This requires more time per day for the course than a traditional college, but as a result, you could finish your degree faster.
What Kind of Person Would Do Well in This Program?
An accelerated program is not for everyone. While yes, it is nicer to graduate sooner and to move on with your life, not everyone is cut out to thrive in this kind of a situation. You need to be determined and have the time to put in for such a class. You also need to catch on quickly and not fall behind. In this kind of a program, falling behind is an uphill climb to get back to where you need to be.
With all of this in mind, the right person for an accelerated nursing program is someone who is a self-starter and self-motivator. They are able to stay on target and on topic without getting distracted. They also are able to manage their time and make sure they complete all assignments, while being to class on time.
What Qualities and Values Does Someone Need to Excel at Nursing in an Accelerated Program?
Someone who is has a passion for nursing and perseverance is a great candidate for this kind of an educational course. It is also perfect for those people who are able to thrive under pressure and who are not easily distracted. Having the ability to master ideas quickly without repeated demonstrations is helpful as well.
You know yourself better than anyone else does. If you are interested in this kind of a course you need to take a hard look at yourself in the mirror and decide whether or not this is something you can do, or if you think you wouldn't have the ability to remain 100% dedicated to such a course for 18 months. Go with the best opportunity for success while in school.
Are you interested in becoming a nurse and want to fast track your career? If you’re interested in earning an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing, ECPI University offers this degree program at an accelerated rate. For more information about this program, contact a helpful admissions advisor today.
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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Gainful Employment Information – Nursing (RN) - Associate’s
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