Finding certified online nursing courses is an excellent step for advancing your career in the healthcare field. Whether you are starting out as a nurse or looking to specialize in a particular area, online courses offer flexibility and accessibility. This guide will provide an overview of certified online nursing courses.
1. Introduction to Certified Online Nursing Courses
Certified online nursing courses offer comprehensive training and education required for various nursing roles. These courses are designed to meet the standards set by accrediting bodies and provide recognized certifications upon completion. They cover a range of topics, from basic nursing principles to specialized fields like geriatric care, pediatric nursing, and mental health nursing.
2. Check Course Content and Structure
Review the curriculum of potential courses to ensure they cover the topics you’re interested in. Key subjects in online nursing courses typically include:
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Principles of nursing
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Health assessment and patient care
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Clinical decision-making
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Healthcare informatics
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Global health and emergency response
Ensure the course provides a balanced mix of theory and practical application, with opportunities for hands-on projects.
3. List of Certified Online Nursing Courses
Below are some popular and reputable certified online nursing courses available:
American Nurses Association (ANA)
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Courses Offered: Wide range of topics including infection control, pain management, and advanced practice issues.
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Description: ANA provides various online courses designed to help nurses meet continuing education requirements and enhance their professional skills.
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Accreditation: American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
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Link: ANA Nursing Courses
Johns Hopkins School of Nursing
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Courses Offered: Advanced courses in areas such as Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Acute Care, and Health Informatics.
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Description: Johns Hopkins offers online post-master’s certificate programs and continuing education opportunities that are recognized worldwide.
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Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Kaplan Nursing
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Courses Offered: Preparation courses for NCLEX exams and continuing education.
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Description: Kaplan is well-known for its comprehensive and effective preparation courses for nursing licensure exams, including a variety of continuing education courses.
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Accreditation: Courses are designed to meet the requirements for nursing licensure.
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Link: Kaplan Nursing Courses
Nurse.com
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Courses Offered: Extensive range of continuing education courses covering various specialties and skills.
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Description: Nurse.com is a leading platform for online nursing education, providing accredited CE courses to help nurses advance their knowledge and meet licensing requirements.
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Accreditation: ANCC
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Link: Nurse.com CE Courses
Western Governors University (WGU)
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Courses Offered: Online BSN and MSN programs with an emphasis on leadership, education, and informatics.
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Description: WGU offers competency-based education where progress is based on your ability to prove your skills and knowledge.
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Accreditation: CCNE
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Link: WGU Nursing Programs
Purdue University Global
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Courses Offered: Online RN-to-BSN, MSN, and DNP programs.
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Description: Designed for adult learners, Purdue Global provides advanced, flexible online nursing programs that fit the schedules of working nurses.
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Accreditation: CCNE
4. Good Schools with Online Nursing Degree Programs
For those seeking a more comprehensive education in nursing, several reputable schools offer online nursing degree programs:
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University of Phoenix:
University of Phoenix Nursing Programs
Costs: Approximately $398 per credit
Curriculum: Nursing fundamentals, advanced nursing practice, healthcare policy, and leadership
Program Link: Nursing Programs -
Walden University:
Walden University Nursing Programs
Costs: Approximately $715 per quarter credit hour
Curriculum: BSN, MSN, DNP programs covering clinical practice, nursing education, and healthcare administration
Program Link: Nursing Programs -
Capella University:
Capella University Nursing Programs
Costs: Approximately $425 per credit hour
Curriculum: Competency-based curriculum including nursing practice, healthcare management, and informatics
Program Link: Nursing Programs -
Chamberlain University:
Chamberlain University Nursing Programs
Costs: Approximately $675 per credit hour
Curriculum: BSN, MSN, DNP programs with a focus on evidence-based practice, patient care, and leadership
Program Link: Nursing Programs -
Excelsior College:
Excelsior College Nursing Programs
Costs: Approximately $510 per credit hour
Curriculum: ASN, BSN, and MSN programs covering nursing theory, clinical practice, and healthcare systems
Program Link: Nursing Programs
By following these steps, you can find a certified online nursing course that aligns with your goals, fits your schedule, and meets your budget. With the right training, you’ll be well on your way to a successful career in nursing.