Finding the Best Online Master's Degree Nursing Program

Posted by Nick Niesen on October 27th, 2010

How do you go about finding the best online master's degree nursing program? By determining your needs, researching your options, and choosing the best program for you.

Use Your Best Judgment

As a nurse, you're required to use your judgment on a daily basis. This same principle applies to your education as well! Finding the best online master's degree nursing program is not as simple as doing a quick Internet search and choosing the best program. What may be the best online program for you may not be for someone else, and vice versa. This means that you need to compare all aspects of a school before deciding if the program is the best for you. The following guidelines can help.

Is it Accredited?

First, you need to find a program that is accredited. If you do not, you may waste a lot of time and money on a program that is not recognized by employers and/or licensing agencies. The two agencies that accredit nursing programs are The National League of Nursing Accreditation Commission and The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Does it Offer the Program I need or Want?

This sounds obvious, but you need to choose a program that works for you. Will the program move your career in the direction you want? Is it an area of interest? Do the courses look appropriate for what you want to accomplish? Almost all online graduate programs offer a list of required coursework on their websites.

Does it Offer Support?

Finding the best online master's degree nursing program entails more than simply researching the programs and accreditation. Also, research support systems offered by the school. Graduate work can be expensive and takes a tremendous amount of energy. A school's support system can make the process much more enjoyable. Does it offer a good technical support system? Are academic advisors and faculty regularly available? Are there links to online research tools?

Consider your online degree program wisely. Finding the best online master's degree nursing program involves careful consideration.