Many online colleges offer distance-education associate degree programs in nursing, such as Kaplan University, Herzing University, South University Online and Keiser University. A typical program coursework entails microbiology, introduction to psychology, health care management, medical terminology, basic human anatomy, nutrition, human physiology, adult health care and developmental psychology. Minimum eligibility to enroll in an associate degree program is a high school diploma or GED.
Online Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs usually do not require on-campus clinical training. Program usually requires students to have completed an associate degree in nursing (ADN) and to be working registered nurses. Online communication methods are used to provide course materials. The bachelor's degree program develops the skills of students in assessment, interpersonal communication, health problems, and teamwork. The program curriculum often covers research methodology, informatics, management, global health and nursing science. Many bachelor's degree programs in nursing require conducting a research on a specific topic.
Students can enroll in an online master's degree in nursing after completing a bachelor's program. A master's degree program focuses on practical knowledge, theory and research related to pursuing an advanced career in nursing. Lectures, exams and assignments are completed online. However, students are required to complete specific number of hours of clinical experience in a local community facility. The coursework usually entails administration, research methods, critical analysis, advanced clinical assessment, education, health care economics, nursing informatics, biostatistics and clinical decision making.
Some universities offer online doctoral programs in a nursing track for students who want to continue their education. These programs train students for pursuing careers in research, education and health policy. Online doctorate nursing programs teach students about theory development, nursing science philosophy, ethics, leadership and clinical research methods. To enroll in a doctoral program, students are required to obtain either a bachelor's degree or a master's degree. Many universities require students to complete one-week residency at the campus at least once a year.