Nursing is a rewarding job, and earning a credible degree is a great way to kickstart one’s career. Four-week long certification programs to full-length graduate programs, there are a variety of nursing courses to choose from. Understanding the different programs usually helps one understand their goals clearly.
Herein, we look at the different types of degree programs available for nursing and the top three universities that offer them. The primary types of nursing programs are Diploma or certificate programs Diploma and certification programs such as Licensed Practical Nurse Program and Diploma in Nursing Program are beginner-level nursing courses. These programs take a few months to two years to complete. For these courses, there are full- and part-time options. One may have to take a national licensing examination to begin practicing as a nurse. Nonetheless, these courses are sufficient to apply for a license in nursing. A person who has completed these courses can work in various settings including a doctor’s office, hospitals, and nursing homes. Associate degree in nursing An associate degree usually takes only two years to complete. One can choose their specialization in various fields such as mental health, pediatrics, and pharmacology. Associate degree nurses need to clear the National Council Licensure Examination to acquire a license. A registered nurse can begin working immediately after earning their degree and license. Jobs for registered nurses are greatly in demand, making nursing a quick, well-paying, and noble career path to pick. Bachelor of science in nursing This type of degree course is ideal for students who are new to the field of nursing. One may need to take an entry test or submit a letter of recommendation, depending on the university’s prerequisites. The course covers a variety of nursing roles and may last anywhere between 36 and 60 months. There are various career opportunities for those with a Bachelor of science in nursing degree, including working in intensive care units and operating rooms. Master of science in nursing A master’s degree in nursing is a more advanced course that is usually taken by individuals who have prior knowledge and experience in nursing. Those who have completed their Bachelor of science in nursing are eligible for this Master's program. This course trains students in advanced roles such as nurse practitioners and certified registered nurse anesthetists. The duration of the course depends on one’s experience level, degree, and even certain license requirements. Nonetheless, this nursing program usually takes anywhere between 18 to 36 months to complete. Different types of master of science degrees available such as single, double, and bridge courses. Doctor of nursing practice A  Ph.D. is the highest level of education one can attain as a nursing practitioner, and a doctor of nursing practice is a program commonly taken to attain such a level. A Ph.D. requires a person to research and usually serve as a faculty member, however, one may have lesser practical knowledge while attaining a Ph.D. On the other hand, a person studying to attain a Doctorate of nursing practice will be engaging themselves in rigorous research as well as medical practices. Nurses with advanced degrees tend to earn much higher pays. Here are the best universities that offer the abovementioned nursing programs: University of Illinois College of Nursing This university offers various certificate, bachelor, master’s, and doctorate programs in nursing. These courses are taught by a faculty of award-winning professors and reputed clinicians. The culture is great, and one may network with people across the world while studying here. Penn School of Nursing The Penn School of Nursing has consistently been ranked among the top institutions for nursing. They offer a number of beginner and advanced degree courses in nursing. They have over 75 full-time professional faculty members who conduct classes to help students make the best out of their experience. UCLA The University of California, Los Angeles is one of the oldest and most well-reputed universities in the country that offers courses in nursing. Its faculty members include highly experienced and educated individuals, including Nobel Laureates. Unfortunately, UCLA offers only long-term courses in nursing.