Top Online Nursing Programs

Most of us have considered going back to school at one point or another. I want go back to school to get my master's degree. I, like you, research programs to see what will work best for my lifestyle. I will need to continue to work my full time job and run my household, while I obtain my degree. The reasons that we decide to go back to school as an adult are much the same--no matter what degree that we pursue. 

So, let's talk about my top 5 reasons.

1. Career Advancement--Earning your associate's or bachelor's degree will open up more career opportunities for you. If you earn your Associate Degree in Nursing online, you can move forward in your career to become an RN. If you earn your Bachelor's degree in Fire Science, you can advance into higher ranks and move into a leadership role. But whatever degree you pursue, earning it will lead to more options for your career. 

2. Earning Potential--By advancing your education and earning your degree, you increase your earning potential. The easiest example of this is the difference in pay between an LPN and an RN. The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the average salary for an LPN at $40,380 and the average salary for an RN at $64,690. That is a remarkable difference!

3.Expanding Your Horizons--Learning opens us up to all kinds of experiences. I think we can rediscover our love of learning and how much we enjoy the challenge of finding answers. It can spark a lifelong love of new adventures.

4. Achieving Your Dream--By earning your degree, you will accomplish a milestone in your life. It is one that will take hard work and dedication. There might be times along the way when you feel like giving up--but you can push through to keep going. Thinking about how your life will change can help to motivate you to stay on track.

5. Inspiring Others--Most people don't realize that by reaching their goal, they inspire others to take a chance and follow their dream too. You will impact those around you with your success and will be a role model for those that are contemplating taking the next step in their career.  

I'm sure after reading these reasons, you might even have more reasons to add to your list. If you're ready to discover more about earning your degree online through The College Network and one of our partner universities, call us today at 800-395-1014. Or you can request more information here. 

Although the unemployment rate increased slightly in October-going from 7.8% to 7.9%-the United States still added 171,000 new jobs. Amongst the top industries contributing to these new jobs was health care with 31,000 new positions added.

If you are unemployed or just looking for a more stable career, health care is an excellent choice, and The College Network can help get you started down this new path. We have several different programs for you to choose from to earn an online degree in the health care field:

Associate's Degree Programs

• LPN/LVN to RN
• Paramedic to RN

Bachelor's Degree Programs

• LPN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
• RN to BS in Nursing
• Health Care Administration
• Health Information Management
• Healthcare Management

Master's Degree Programs

• RN to MS in Nursing
• MS in Nursing

The College Network offers academic support for our portion of these degree programs from leading universities, so when you enroll with us, you are never alone. Your success is just as important to us as it is to you, and we will work with you as much as you need our help to ensure that you master the knowledge you are learning. There has never been a better time to begin a career in the healthcare industry, so if you would like more information on our online degree programs call 1-800-395-1014.

"Don't let schooling interfere with your education." It's a common Mark Twain quote heard among those who are disenchanted with the realm of higher education. They proceed to argue that with the cost of college on the rise and the inhospitable job market that investing in something like an advanced degree is not only unwise, but downright contradictory to achieving financial independence. 

What the college naysayers neglect to mention is that without a degree, your career choices will be limited for the rest of your life - your dream of becoming a doctor, or teacher, or nurse practitioner will have to be put on hold permanently. It's a dramatic statement, but the current society demands highly educated workers and the trend shows that more education and advanced degrees are becoming a necessity. 

This doesn't mean that you should run out and sign up for just any form of advanced degree. You should take the time to determine what type of advanced degree is right for you and what type of program will fit your current situation. If you're interested in earning a degree conveniently and cost effectively, you should visit The College Network's web site to learn more about online degree programs from top universities. 

There are many reports that talk about the increasing need for registered nurses.  With the aging baby boomer population, planning for changing healthcare needs will be at the forefront of hospitals and providers across the country.

The registered nursing field is going to grow by 26% by 2020.  If you break that down, it means that there are currently 2,737,400 jobs for registered nurses in the United States.  And, by 2020, that number will be 3,449,300, showing an increase of 711,900.  In comparison to other occupations that are growing by 14%, this field is far and away one that is at the top percentage of growth.  (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Handbook, 2012-2013 Edition, Registered Nurses) 

So, let's talk about pay.  Registered nurses, on average, make $64,690 a year. When you compare nursing to other occupations that have an average salary of $33,840,  you can see that becoming a registered nurse will offer you a secure, comfortable future.  (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U. S. Department of Labor, Occupational Handbook, 2012-2013 Edition, Registered Nurses)  

You can easily plan to be a part of the 3,449,300 working registered nurses.  There really is not a better time to gain your Associate Degree in Nursing.  Working through your online program with The College Network is doable, and you can continue to work full time.  Also, you can work at your own pace, on a schedule that fits into your life.

Learn more about our nursing programs here or call us today at (800)-39-LEARN to reach one of our Program Advisors and plan for your future.  

In my last blog post, I discussed the flexibility of our distance nursing programs where different kinds of people and learners are able to complete their degrees using the example of the Mario Kart video game series.  I'd like to continue using Mario Kart as a reference point to show how things you have already done, things we at The College Network can help you with, and things you can do to avoid obstacles in preventing you from finishing your degree program.

In Mario Kart, each character/kart can obtain different bonus items to help their cause in winning the race.  Some of these items are mushrooms (speed boost), turtles shells (wreck the opponent near you), banana peel (make someone spin out), and lightning bolts (shrink your competition).  Each of these can draw a parallel to helping you overcome obstacles in your program.

Mushrooms - a speed boost.  First off, with our Comprehensive Learning Modules, we streamline the test-out process, but we also offer other services to help as well.  Now, for certain prerequisite and general education classes, we offer online testing via a webcam proctor service to help you schedule and complete courses much quicker than a traditional testing center.  Also, by financing your exam fees with the rest of your learning modules, you do not have to wait to budget out test costs, we've done that for you!

Lightning Bolts - shrink the competition.  For those of you that have previous college credit, the good news is that it will most likely transfer in to the program if it is from a regionally accredited school.  By transferring in those credits, you can shrink the size of your program, and save time and money!

Turtle Shells - knock out the competition.  Each of our learning modules arms you with a turtle shell to knock out the opponent (the courses you need).  We guarantee you will pass each exam by using our modules, so whenever you shoot a turtle shell, it will be like a red one that finds the nearest competitor to knock them off.  Use the practice exams in the modules to help make sure you are prepared for your actual exams at the testing center or in the online webcam tests.  All in all, the modules will lead the way to finish your program and each one is a turtle shell to knock off your competition along the way!

Banana Peels - in case you slip.  Banana peels are notorious for being slippery, and the same is true in Mario Kart.  In life, and in these programs it is easy to fall behind, or slip up every once in awhile.  This is why we offer our Academic Support team to help you stay on track.  They are there to help you with curriculum questions, scheduling exams, obtaining exam fee checks, navigating the online resource center, and making sure you properly enroll and complete your top online nursing programs with one of the schools we partner with or recommend.

We at The College Network enjoy serving you to help you complete your education and lifelong goals.  Mario Kart is a great game on all platforms of Nintendo video game systems, and although it may not be the first thing you think of when completing your education, maybe now you can see the parallels between your education and having fun with a game.  So go out, run your race, complete your program, and come away in 1st place!

As always, feel free to contact us with any questions or needs.  Have a great day!

Kevin Burton, Program Advisor, kburton@collegenetwork.com, 1-800-307-1006 Ext. 4734

Procrastination - where I'll do it tomorrow becomes I'll do it next week - becomes I'll do it next month - becomes I never do it... Ever. 

You may have noticed that my posts have been lacking lately. Yes. I'm human, and I'm just as much of a procrastinator as the next person. It's something that most (if not all) of us deal with on a regular basis. 

Procrastination can affect us in many ways: We can fall behind in our careers, in academics, or even in our personal lives with family our friends. For as many of us as there are that do procrastinate, you would begin to assume it was actually a good thing.

Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. WRONG!

Procrastination is a killer. Not always a physical killer (unless you procrastinating your meals or crucial vitamins), but it is almost always a killer of dreams and goals.

You've wanted to become a registered nurse your entire life but now               (insert random excuse) is keeping you from doing it? Do you think there will ever be a perfect time to go back to school and fulfill your dreams? 

NO!

You have to make the time. If you do not work towards your dreams, I'm sad to say that you will probably never see them come true.

So sure, maybe now isn't a great time, but let's realize how small changes in your daily routine can lead to exponential results and help you achieve your lifelong goals.

The College Network offers top online nursing programs that can be completed at your OWN pace. There are no required log in times, no due dates, no penalties for moving too slowly or too quickly. So what's stopping you? Sure, it would be great to devote 6 hours a day to studying but even a half hour will get you to your goals eventually.

Make the change today! Call The College Network to learn how you can achieve your goals at your own pace.

Ein Peck, Program Advisor 

(800) 634-1443 ext 4786   mpeck@collegenetwork.com

Have you ever had an inkling or thought that you SHOULD do something?

In the words of Jiminy Cricket, a famous Walt Disney character, "Always let your conscience be your guide".

If you are considering going back to school for advanced nursing education, it might be time to listen to yourself. Earning a degree will not be easy, but it may be necessary to achieve your career goals. The College Network has made its mission to help working nurses through self-paced education and training. 

Research The College Network and hear what customers are saying about their experience at: www.youtube.com/thecollegenetwork. 

If you are already a customer completing a top online nursing program with help from The College Network, we're here for you. Our dedicated Academic Support team can help you develop a study plan based on your unique learning style, and our online Resource Center is packed with valuable tools that can make independent study fun and effective too. We know you can do this, and we'll support you throughout your TCN experience. 

You have to do what is right for you. Stop putting off the opportunity to earn your degree. You control your future when it comes to gaining advanced education that will provide endless opportunities and potential pay raises. Make the commitment to listen to your conscience and continue taking the necessary steps toward your goals. 

You may have heard about the nursing student education dilemma that's currently happening in the U.S. There are more student's applying to nursing programs at brick and mortar schools than these institutions can accommodate. As a result, many of the students are getting turned away.

Did you know that with The College Network's distance nursing programs, you can begin working towards your degree whenever you are ready? That's right, with our nursing programs from leading universities there is never a waiting list to get started!

Once you enroll, you can complete your degree in as little or as much time as you like. Our online nursing programs are designed with you in mind, and with the understanding that life happens. You should be able to earn your degree on your own time, and with our programs that's exactly what you can do.

We offer fully accredited online Associate's, Bachelor's and Master's in Nursing degrees from top nursing schools. If you would like to learn more, visit our web site or call and speak to one of our Program Advisors at 1-800-395-1014.

Are you currently enrolled in one of The College Network's distance nursing programs? If so you may be looking for ways to save a buck to help off set the cost of education. Here are some simple tips to help you cut costs and earn a little extra money to put towards your education.

1. Brown bag your lunch and eat your breakfast and dinner at home. Often, people don't realize how much eating out, even if only a few times a week, adds up. You can save a lot of money by cooking all your own meals. I always set a weekly budget for groceries of $60 for myself and my spouse (that's for a weeks worth of breakfast, lunch and dinner). We are able to get fresh fruits and vegetables and do not eat frozen or processed food. It's all about buying what's on sale, making a list and sticking to it! AND, never go grocery shopping while you are hungry!
2. Skip the expensive coffee shops in the morning and brew your own coffee at home. If you are set on a certain coffee shop brand, many times you can buy it in bulk at wholesale stores for less money.
3. If you have extra stuff collecting dust at home (let's be honest-most of us do) sell in on eBay or craigslist. You'd be amazed how easy it is to sell items on these sites. 
4. Following along the lines of item number three, why not have a garage sale? It's coming up on that time of year again, and garage sales are great ways to clean out your space and make some extra money doing so.
5. Limit your frivolous spending. If you're on a budget or trying to save money, don't go out and buy a new pair of jeans...no matter how good of a deal they are! Every little bit of spending adds up.

The bottom line...it's all about prioritizing. Your education is one of the most important things you will ever do for yourself, so why not make it a priority? That's the great thing about The College Network's online programs. You can earn your nursing degree from a top university, entirely online at a fraction of the cost of attending a brick and mortar school. You can learn more about our programs here.

Nursing homes, a stronghold of LPN jobs, may become progressively less so. Illinois, for one, is attempting to instate a new law requiring 20% of nurses in nursing homes to be RNs. The change would cost the state $122 million annually, but Illinois Governor Pat Quinn, as well as local advocacy groups, are pushing for the change because they believe that care from RNs prevents hospitalization. This information comes from an article on the Progress Illinois website.

If you are an LPN and you want to take action now to avoid worries about job security, do not fret. Give The College Network a call at 1-800-39-LEARN to find out how you can work towards obtaining RN status while continuing to work full time as an LPN through our online programs from top universities. 

A recent article from marketwatch.com stated, "With more than three million nurse professionals in the United States alone, nursing is the largest segment of the healthcare industry and touches every facet of care from the doctor's office to home care to hospitals." With all of the praise that doctors and physicians receive for all of their hard work, it's easy to forget the significant influence nurses have in the healthcare field.

With the advent of improved healthcare technology, the expanding role of the registered nurse has become essential to the functionality of any hospital. "Nurses have been championing quality-of-care improvements, spearheading research innovation, advocating for patient rights and generally challenging the status quo. Simply put, their impact has been enormous and will continue to be so over the coming decades." 

If you're considering the field of nursing, there has never been a better time to obtain the education and training necessary. There are myriad nursing schools and online degree programs to accommodate just about anyone's schedule, but there is only one that combines online, self-paced learning with online degrees from top universities.

Since 1992, The College Network has helped hundreds of thousands of people earn certificates and degrees, including thousands of people who wanted to earn or further their nursing degrees. Visit The College Network's web site to learn more and begin the journey to becoming a registered nurse.

U.S. News & World Report has issued its picks for the top ten jobs for 2012. Perhaps not surprisingly, Registered Nurse came in at the number one spot! Economist Michael Wolf, quoted in the article, says that in the next decade nursing will grow 26% and add 712,000 positions.

What are you waiting for? Take charge of your future today. In addition to the service RNs provide to others, their median salary is $64,690. Since 1992, The College Network has been enabling people to advance their careers in nursing through our online programs with top universities. If you think you can handle the #1 job, call 1-800-39-LEARN today.

For more information from U.S. News & World Report on the Registered Nurse job, click here; the entire list of top jobs appears here.

While it is a fact that the nursing field is dominated by women, there are many great male nurses as well. 

The Delaware Chapter of the American Assembly for Men in Nursing(AAMN) has set out to lessen the gender gap between men and women in the nursing field with their "20x20: Choose Nursing" campaign. The goal of the campaign is to have 20% of the nursing workforce consist of male nurses by 2020. The efforts of the campaign include local chapters of the AAMN reaching out to junior high and high school students to try and encourage more men to go into nursing. 

Currently, in the United States, male nurses make up about 5.8% of all nurses which is about 168,743 total nurses. This number is growing about 2-3% each year and if it continues to do so, that would make the total population of male nurses more than 20% by 2020.

If you're a man who is thinking about a career in nursing, I encourage you to purse your dreams. As we know, the future outlook of nursing is extremely positive with job growth expected to skyrocket over the next several years. Nursing also has a reputation for paying extremely well with starting salaries averaging between $25-$30 per hour for registered nurses.

If you are already in a nursing career but it's your dream to advance to a higher level, The College Network can help! We offer online degrees from top universities. Our nursing degree programs are accredited, and there is never a waiting list to get started. Plus, they are all self-paced so you can earn your degree while continuing to work. For more information, visit our website, or call us at 1-800-395-1014.

Sources: nurse.com, malenursingscholarships.com

SuperScholar.org recently released their list for the top 25 schools for online nursing degrees, and The George Washington University and Indiana State University, two of The College Network's partners in education, ranked number 3 and 15 on the list - an outstanding accomplishment that is a testament to the high-quality education both universities provide.

The College Network is proud of these rankings and firmly reaffirms the outstanding programs both universities offer. To learn more about either The George Washington University or Indiana State University's online nursing programs, you can visit either school's web site or visit The College Network online. 

A BIG GULP, candy bar, snack potato chips and some lottery tickets.  What does this sound like to you?  They are things you get at a convenience store.  From national chains to the local "Mom and Pop" quick stop, they're everywhere.  We pay a higher price for things in these stores because of one major factor.  No; not because you can put unlimited Cherry flavor shots into your huge 74 ounce soda cup.  We do it for the convenience!  A quick zip in and zip out, everything we need compacted into a space no larger than my wife's closet! 

From 30 minute oil changes to drive up restaurants, we have become a nation of convenience addicts.  I am guilty as charged! But convenience isn't always a bad thing.  In some cases it can be the difference between having and not having. 

The College Network, with our partnerships and associations with some of the top universities and colleges in the nation, has designed a way for you to obtain your Associate of Science in Nursing degree, BS in Nursing degree, MS in Nursing degree, Project Management certificate, Lean Six Sigma certification, or Paralegal certificate through a combination of distance learning and comprehensive learning modules.  LPN to RN degree programs that allow you to work from any high-speed Internet connection, anytime, 24/7.  This will allow  you to learn and earn your degree in the most convenient way possible.   Our goal is to make education fit into your life. 

Convenience can be a good thing.  Convenience joined with degrees from top universities is a very good thing.  Better job security, higher pay, better quality of life, satisfaction of accomplishment all in a convenient online program.  Want to know more?  It's simple and convenient; just call me 1-800-307-1006 ext 2649.

What more could you ask for?  Maybe a SUPER GULP?

I hope to hear from you!

Lawrence Bowlin
lbowlin@collegenetwork.com