Certificate Programs Online

In an advanced program, a person can complete an online degree program in licensed practical nursing in about eighteen months. Other types of nursing degrees can take two to four years, depending on the number of classes a student wishes to take at any given time. Nurses who already hold degrees but want to attain graduate degrees in nursing can do so in online degree programs that offer master and PhD degrees in specialties like nursing education, nurse administration and nursing management.

Labor and statistics data indicate that nursing is a field that will continue to grow over the next several years, with a much higher concentration of growth of nurses needed in physician's offices; about 48% over the next eight years. The latest data indicates that the median annual salary for a registered nurse is $62,450, not including benefits like health care, signing bonuses, flexible schedules and child care facilities, which many hospitals offer. Labor and statistics notes that four areas of nursing specialty are likely to be in the highest demand in the next seven years nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, nurse practitioners, and clinical nurse specialists.

Another online degree that focuses on patient interaction is respiratory therapy. A respiratory therapist works with patients who have heart and lung disorders due to disease, genetics, or other factors. Respiratory therapists provide diagnostic assessments as well as therapy to patients who need it, including surgical patients, premature infants, or accident victims in emergency rooms.

Respiratory therapists help their patients with breathing issues using highly technical equipment in hospitals and in other places like nursing homes and also in patient homes. A two- or four-year degree program is required by the National Board for Respiratory Care in order to sit for the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam. Accredited online schools are recognized by the board as comparable to a traditional college environment. Once a therapist has achieved the CRT designation, they may choose to take the two exams that are required in order to become a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT).

By attaining an online college degree in respiratory therapy, a graduate increases their chances of getting a good job in the medical field, because CRT and RRT job opening are projected to increase by 21% over the next several years. These jobs will be in hospitals and other care facilities, especially places that specialize in caring for older patients as the population of aging patients is increasing rapidly. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that respiratory therapists earn a median annual income of $52,200.

An online medical degree in nursing or respiratory care can be the ticket to a high earning job in a challenging and rewarding job caring for people who need your help. Online degree programs offer a level of flexibility that just isn't available in a traditional school environment. In as little as eighteen months, you may be able to be a valued member of a health care team, giving help and hope to patients who will truly appreciate your dedication to your job.