Introduction
The choice of an optimal program for receiving a bachelor of nursing science (BSN) is a non-trivial task that requires careful comparison and thorough research. The choice is even more paramount considering the resource and time investment. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to compare programs for experienced nurses and students with other major by learning outcomes and other parameters to select one that could be recommended as optimal.
Fast-Track BSNs
For those who already have an experience or a registered nurse (RN) certificate, there appears to be no need to revisit the basic knowledge. Therefore, there is an accelerated online nursing bachelor program that lets students achieve the same competence in 2 years. For instance, Regent University (n.d.) offers a completely online-based study course that includes learning outcomes such as knowledge of pathologies, health assessment and treatment methods, data management and so forth.
However, it has an RN requirement which makes this program unavailable to students who did not take an NCLEX-RN exam. The subjects and learning material will therefore be optimized for experienced nurses, rendering the program challenging for beginners. Another accelerated program such as the one created by the University of Washington (n.d.) offers an opportunity of counseling which suggests that inexperienced students may take it as well.
Among other advantages of this one are the price and a variety of hospitals in which to receive practice. In addition, the program’s learning outcomes include well-rounded nursing care management, health equity and health promotion knowledge, and translation of scientific evidence into practice. However, by student-teacher ratio, it might give way to Regent University BSN. The latter is rather essential because comprehending knowledge requires proper teaching.
Pittsburgh University has an accelerated BSN as a second-degree option. This program might be optimal for students with other backgrounds should they decide on becoming nurses. It offers a number of courses ranging from evidence-based practice to pharmacology and gerontological care. There are options there to study under RN-BSN curriculums designed to prepare learners for an NCLEX-RN where experienced students might skip classes they are proficient in. Overall, this course is rather balanced for both categories of nursing experience.
Recommended Program
Each learner is unique in their requirements and knowledge which makes recommending a program a difficult undertaking. Regent University might be the best choice if one has experience in the sphere of nursing and wants to expand it using the advantage of quality teaching. Those who are confident of their RN practice and knowledge might opt for a cheaper BSN at the University of Washington. Inexperienced students might choose between Regent University and Pittsburgh University BSN programs as they offer better-optimized curriculums for non-nurses.
Conclusion
The essential choice of program is an individual task that requires a good understanding of one’s strong sides and weaknesses, as well as desires. All presented options might satisfy knowledge seekers depending on their background. Yet, in terms of choosing an accelerated BSN, there seem to be many more possibilities for RNs than for non-nurses.
References
Regent University. (n.d.). RN to BS in Nursing – Regent University. Web.
University of Washington. (n.d.). ABSN—Accelerated bachelor of science in nursing. Web.