If you decide to seek a degree in nursing, there are several programs available for you to consider. You can choose to pursue an associate's, bachelor's, master's or even doctoral degree in nursing.
An Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), is useful for those who wish to eventually go on to seek a higher degree or for those who wish to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). ADN programs are typically two years, and may be completed at many community colleges and online higher education institutions. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is a good choice for those who wish to become registered nurses (RN's) and advance to management positions within the nursing field. An RN who completes the four-year BSN degree can typically expect a higher salary and increased opportunities for career advancement over a nurse who has only an ADN.
Those who seek a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree are typically RN's who wish to specialize in a particular field, such as anesthesiology or administration. These two-year degree programs have a prerequisite of a BSN, and usually a grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.0. A doctoral degree (PhD) in Nursing is typically sought by those who wish to commit themselves to teaching, research or acting as an advisor or consultant in the field. This is a full-time program, as opposed to the lower degrees, which may be undertaken by those who wish to attend school while working.
The Commission on Accreditation of Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) is the organization that decides which physical therapy degree programs are acceptable for those seeking to be professional physical therapists. There are currently only graduate programs accredited by the CAPTE. Master's degree programs in Physical Therapy are typically two to two and a half years in duration, while doctoral degrees require an additional three years of study. Before beginning a course of graduate study in the physical therapy field, students should have an undergraduate degree in a related subject, such as Biology, Physics or one of the social sciences.
For those who wish to focus on the mental health aspects of the healthcare industry, seeking a degree in psychology may be the right course of action. If you want to practice independently, a doctoral degree (PhD) in Psychology will be required. To earn a PhD, you must first complete undergraduate and approximately five additional years of graduate coursework.
There are career opportunities for those who complete a Master's degree instead of completing a PhD. With a Master's degree in Psychology, you can work in industrial-psychological capacities, conduct research and act as assistant psychologists to those who have earned PhDs in Psychology.