I am about to graduate with as a RN and am really looking into getting a Bachelor's degree soon after. I would like to start as soon as I can. Now my dilemma is I would like to learn about alternative nursing and health practices. I am looking into alternative medicine and holistic nursing. I am not going to practice this (at least not yet) just want to learn something different. Is a Bachelor's in alternative medicine useful in a hospital seting or should I just go for a BSN? Also if anyone knows of any schools that offer online programs for holistic or alternative bachelor's programs that are accredited I would greatly appreciate it if you mention them.
You would do best by getting a BSN. Perhaps you can find courses or a program that fits your interests. Do research before you get started, you might be able to find a BSN program that also addresses alternative medicine.
I am also looking into this, but I got an interesting reply from someone in a community college who said a BSN may NOT be helpful. I will be posting an additional / separate post about this. The college I looked into costs around$6000 - not bad for another 4 year degree.
If I were you I would go on for your BSN. I am assuming you are getting an Associates Degree in nursing. There are many programs that have an RN to BSN program which is what you are looking for. The BSN may not get you more money in the work place but you will need a Bachelors if you want to be a Clinical Director or advance your career down the road. You will learn good leadership skills that you don't always get in an Associates Degree. If you ever want to Adjunct for a college to earn extra you may even need a Masters in Nursing as some states are requiring that. But, like everyone else has stated, do some research. See what's available in your area and talk to people in your field of interest to see what they suggest. Good Luck!!
There is the Americal Holistic Nurses Association which offers certification. A lot of certifications are only offered nowadays to Bachelors-prepared nurses so look them up and see what they have to offer and what they require for certification.
Im an RN with associates degree and BA in science/math from long ago. I decided to go back for bsn/msn and after many, many days/weeks of research decided on Thomas Edison State College. Offers 100 percent online and take all nursing credits. Check it out. For a 75 dollar enrollment fee they will evaluate your transcript(s) and tell you what you need to take. Im starting the first of 6 classess I need for my bsn on Jan 1. They are fully accredited and have a good rep in my state of NJ. Good luck.
Alternative medicine is one way to diversify your career and knowledge, but receiving your Bachelor's is probably the best path if you are looking to continuing education. You can receive your BSN through online education, an option many nurses pursue. Because you are willing to advance your education, completing a RN to BSN program is a strong possibility in your scenario and good way to launch your career in traditional, holistic, or alternative medicine.
It all depends on what you want to do. Nursing Schools is a great website full of information about RN to BSN and healthcare career options. Pursuing a bachelors degree is definitely a good idea but then again, so is pursing a BSN. I would do some research and weigh out your options. Consider school costs, future salary, and more importantly, what you will be happiest doing. Good luck!
Congratulations on becoming an RN! Linfield College offers an online RN to BSN program and they’re accredited by both the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
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