Online nursing schools

Registered nurses (RNs) with a bachelor of science of nursing (BSN) are in such high demand, that RN-to-BSN programs can be found at just about every nursing school in the U.S. And because most RN-to-BSN students are working nurses, some schools have developed online programs to make it easier for these professionals to continue working while earning their degree. Some of the best online options are offered at Grantham University, SUNY Empire State College, University of Maryland University College, California Southern University, and Galen College of Nursing.

A master of science in nursing (MSN) can open the door to some of the highest paying nursing roles today. Nurse practitioner, nurse administrator, and nurse educator are just a few. Because of the tremendous demands associated these roles, hospitals, outpatient centers, and educational services are willing to pay six figures or more to qualified candidates. For example, nurse practitioners working in state, local, and private hospitals averaged $114,630 in 2016, while those working in outpatient care centers earned $107,090. At a notable $175,170, high performers earned even more.

Graduate certificates in nursing are designed for nurses looking to enhance their expertise in specific areas of nursing. Examples of graduate certificates include nursing education, nursing informatics, care coordination, diabetes nursing, and nursing leadership. Besides career advancement, obtaining a graduate certificate in any of these specialized fields offers greater earning potential. For example, registered nurses (RNs) earned an average of $68,450 in 2016. However, RNs specializing in nursing leadership and management earned $96,450.

A doctor of nursing practice (DNP) is at the top of the degree ladder. Per the Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing at Loyola University Chicago, this terminal degree is designed to provide additional knowledge and skills so that nurses may further enhance the health and well-being of the individuals and communities with whom they work. The curriculum builds on current master’s programs and provides education in evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and systems thinking.

The doctor of philosophy (PhD) in nursing is one of the highest degree levels a nurse can achieve. The program is best suited for registered nurses (RNs) seeking an advanced degree that focuses on research in a clinical, academic or scientific environment. RNs with a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) or a master of science in nursing (MSN) qualify for entry into programs such as the BSN-to-PhD or MSN-to-PhD option. Nurses who have attained a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) qualify for the DNP-to-PhD option.