Review personal goals. The pursuit of a nursing degree remains both challenging and time-intensive. Review any personal goals associated with beginning a nursing career and evaluate the time, financial resources and equipment available to complete a nursing degree. In addition, visit a hospital or local clinic to discuss nursing training with an experienced nursing professional.
Identify a specific course offering. Research the large number of nursing degrees offered by major universities, private institutions and online-based schools. Identify the duration and associated costs of the nursing course while investigating available reviews and ratings associated with the institution. In addition, evaluate the tuition assistance opportunities while contacting course instructors and key personnel for enrollment information.
Purchase computer equipment. Purchase, rent or lease a laptop or desktop computer prior to the beginning of the course. Verify the ability of the computer's operating system to meet the requirements outlined by the institution's online nursing course guidelines. In addition, contact the school's admissions office to inquire about system requirements prior to the beginning of the course.
Establish a personal schedule. As mentioned earlier, the pursuit of a nursing degree requires a time-intensive effort. Create a personal schedule that considers the official course schedule and time needed for study and testing. In addition, allow time to practice hands-on activities, such as performing mock drug calculations and the practice of pediatric vital signs. Schedule child-care and create a specific study and work area in your home.
Complete the course. Maintain frequent email contact with course instructors, complete web-based or lab-based nursing tests and promptly deliver exams to successfully complete the nursing course. In addition, schedule the state-required nursing exam following course completion with the local state nursing registry. Return any course or borrowed materials following course completion.