As nursing degrees (especially online nursing degrees) become more and more popular, the facts and opinions start to blur. What can you trust as truth and what is exaggerated out there by the market?
Here at E-NursingSchools.com, we’re going to examine some of the more common misconceptions and attempt to clear the air.
Statement: I can immediately make a 6 figure salary ($100,000+) with a nursing degree.
Reality: this is only half true – if you receive a BSN (Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing), your starting salary will be extremely competitive compared to most entry-level careers (likely mid $50,000s). However, before you can reach 6 figure salary, it is likely you will need some sort of advanced nursing training or specialization along with a Master’s Degree in Nursing. Luckily, a BSN is a great starting point for any budding nurse and online Master in Nursing degrees will allow you to work at your job and advance your career at the same time.
Statement: Nursing is easy! I can bankroll my way to success without a hitch.
Reality: Although nursing can be an extremely lucrative career, you must have a passion for helping your patients and others as well as a true dedication to teamwork. You won’t make it past your first clinical exam without motivation to aid those that need help. Patients have an innate sense in knowing if you care about that or not, and this makes a big difference when you are working hard to save a patient’s life!
Statement: All I need are nursing courses, right?
Reality: Nurses need a strong background in a multitude of subject areas, such as anatomy, biology, chemistry, microbiology and algebra. Nurses with an aptitude for science classes will find that they do extremely well in the later, more advanced classes. Other online nursing programs also may require English, psychology or other general education courses. Pro-tip: take prerequisite nursing classes before enrolling in a nursing program to save time and units.
Statement: I don’t need a nursing certification.
Reality: It really depends on your school. Some schools do require a basic nursing assistant certification to enroll, so make sure to check with your counselor. Pro-tip: even if it’s not required, it will help you to get into nursing school if you have this certification because it shows the school that you are already familiar with the medical/clinical environment.
Statement: Nursing careers are extremely stressful!
Reality: This is half-true – nurses do have odd hours when they start their career and the medical environment is extremely fast paced. However, nursing is usually described as one of the most rewarding career paths out there because of its combination of helping others & its lucrative career options.
