[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If you’re thinking about completing a bachelor’s degree in nursing or making the jump to a master’s program, you’ll want to assess the pros and cons of online vs. in-person nursing classes. While the technology needed to offer an online nursing program was available before 2020, it became more popular during the pandemic.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The online option has helped to increase enrollment, which could potentially help fill the [hen-ui-link href=”/articles/the-us-nursing-shortage-state-by-state-breakdown//”]nursing shortage gap[/hen-ui-link]. At the same time, it has created challenges for students and instructors as they negotiate obstacles with virtual and distance learning.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]We asked three of our nursing and healthcare experts who have experience in both virtual and in-person nursing programs for their perspectives. Review these factors when choosing between in-person vs. online nursing.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Similarities and Differences Between In-Person and Online Nursing Programs[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Both online and in-person nursing classes must meet the same criteria for accreditation. [hen-ui-link href=”/resources//what-is-accreditation/”]Accreditation for nursing programs is crucial[/hen-ui-link] as it demonstrates the program meets quality standards. It is also essential for a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) student to take the [hen-ui-link href=”/resources//nclex/guide/”]National Council Licensure Examination[/hen-ui-link] (NCLEX) for their state registered nurse (RN) license or to attend a [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/msn/best-online-msn-programs/”]master’s nursing program[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Accredited nursing programs must offer specific coursework and an adequate number of clinical hours in the field. Some [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/online-nursing-programs-overview/”]online nursing programs[/hen-ui-link] are completely remote, while others require the student to attend clinical labs for the instructors to observe their skills. All [hen-ui-link href=”/resources//clinical-experience-for-online-nursing-students/”]online programs will have clinical requirements[/hen-ui-link] that can be met in the community.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]One of the variables between online vs. in-person nursing classes is the cost of the program. Most in-person programs have inflexible coursework schedules that do not allow students to complete the program more quickly. This can impact the cost of the program.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some online programs are a less expensive option. Additionally, the coursework is flexible, which can allow the student to work while studying. This can help support the student’s budget and contribute to lowering the immediate cost.[/hen-ui-text]
[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ align=”center”]Advantages of Online Nursing Programs[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Online programs are available to BSN and graduate nursing students; you can attend [hen-ui-link href=”/resources//how-online-nursing-programs-work/”]online nursing programs to work[/hen-ui-link] toward your nursing degree. But, beyond that advantage, are there others?[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”ordered” bullet-style=”check”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Flexibility[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”xs”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Lisa Eagans, MSN, RNC-MNN, has 20 years of experience in healthcare and teaching. She finds her students have greater flexibility and balance while attending an online nursing program.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]”In-person nursing programs don’t always offer the kind of flexibility that’s needed for adults that are already working full time, but want to upskill as a nurse and further their education,” she says.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students who must also work full time can weave their coursework and study into their schedule in a way that makes sense for them, instead of trying to weave work around a set in-person class schedule.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Other factors that can make an online nursing program more flexible include:[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Recorded video lectures that can be watched several times[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Online tests and quizzes that can be taken around your schedule and scored immediately[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Different locations to attend classes from anywhere with an internet connection[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Easier scheduling for virtual group work[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Different Learning Formats[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”xs”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Linda Joyce Gunn, Ph.D., has taught in traditional and nontraditional settings and has served in many settings at Western Governors University where she has been since 2005. Gunn believes one of the biggest benefits of an online program is the ability to move through the nursing program at your own pace.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]”… you have the support of a community of care that will help the student be successful whether it is with the program mentor, instructor, writing center, student success center, and others to make sure the student has the tools to learn, grow, and become successful,” she says.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]To accomplish online learning for nursing students, students have access to different learning formats. Videos satisfy visual and auditory learning styles and enable the student to speed up, slow down, or repeat certain lessons. Other learning options include:[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Slide decks available to download[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Audio-only podcasts you can listen to while driving[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Integration of digital tools to connect students and teachers in a social network[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Student presentations through online video, slides, or lecture[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Cost[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”xs”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/online-nursing-programs-overview/”]Online nursing programs[/hen-ui-link] may cost the same as an in-person program or might be more affordable. Students must compare the costs between programs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]For example, one online program 200 miles from your home may seem much more cost-effective, but it requires students to attend clinical labs during the semester on campus. This commute can contribute to the cost.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]However, overall, online nursing programs may cost less if you aren’t paying for room and board or transportation.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list]
[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”belowTheFold” /]
[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ align=”center”]Disadvantages of Online Nursing Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students who complete an online nursing program will have a degree they can use nearly anywhere in the country. However, there are a few disadvantages to attending an online program.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”ordered” bullet-style=”check”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Requires High Self-Motivation and Independence[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”xs”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students need to be self-disciplined to attend and complete an online nursing program. If self-motivation and time management is a personal challenge, then an online learning program may not be your best choice.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]”As for disadvantages, online programs are best suited for students who are self-starters and self-motivated,” Eagans says, “meaning this kind of learning format could prove to be challenging for those who struggle with self-discipline and keeping the momentum going when it comes to deadlines.”[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Additional skills needed for students attending an online nursing program include:[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Familiarity with technological problems and how to troubleshoot[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Ability to research and find the necessary materials online[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]High level of internal motivation to succeed[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Independence to seek help when needed[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Ability to set and commit to clear expectations for study time and coursework[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Strong organizational skills to keep work, school, and life in order[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Feeling Disconnected[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”xs”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The very nature of online learning often leaves students feeling disconnected from classmates and instructors. Jenna Liphart Rhoads, Ph.D., RN, is an educator, freelance author, and editor. She has taught in traditional and online nursing programs across several states.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]”In my opinion, the biggest disadvantage can be feelings of being disconnected from the program and from peers. Online schooling can easily make students feel isolated,” she says.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Gunn believes that students can seek out and find ways of connecting with other students, even with distance learning. Students can find ways to engage with other students online, or find students in the same or similar nursing programs in their geographical area.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]However, some students may thrive on face-to-face interaction and may not do well in a strictly online nursing program.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Access to Technology[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”xs”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While many take technology for granted, to successfully complete an online nursing program you must have access to the necessary software and hardware. Nursing programs typically provide students with a list of computer requirements needed to complete the program.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students who are not technologically savvy can receive help in their local area to learn how to use the programs before classes start.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The necessity for appropriate technology also rests with the online nursing program. The program must have designed the instructional material in a way that works well with online learning and offers the necessary technical support for students.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list]
[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ align=”center”]Advantages of In-Person Nursing Programs[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]As you consider how to choose between in-person vs. online nursing, take time to examine how the advantages of an in-person program may also fit your needs.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”ordered” bullet-style=”check”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Networking[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”xs”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Eagans appreciates the advantage of face-to-face interactions in an in-person nursing program.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]”One of the biggest benefits of a traditional in-person nursing program is that students are able to get that in-person connection and oftentimes are able to network with their peers a little easier,” she says.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Rhoads finds her students benefit from better peer support and relationships, which stem from a greater ability to [hen-ui-link href=”/resources//networking-in-nursing/”]professionally network with nurses[/hen-ui-link] and other students. Networking also helps students develop stronger relationships with their instructors. This is helpful when students need letters of recommendation for jobs or a master’s program.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Immediate Feedback[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”xs”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While online nursing students have the advantage of immediate scoring on quizzes and tests, Rhoads points out that students and professors can benefit from face-to-face feedback.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]”The benefits of a traditional in-person nursing program are the ability to seek immediate feedback for both the students and the professors,” she says. “When teaching a class, it is easier to see if students are not understanding material than it is online. Also, students can ask questions and receive immediate responses.”[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Additionally, real-time responses can contribute to collaborative learning in the classroom. In-person programs allow students to work together more easily, so they actively learn with and from their peers.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]On-Campus Resources[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”xs”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Colleges and universities have developed many resources to help students be successful in their education. Many of these resources may not be available online. Also, online resources are not as easily accessed, especially for an adult learner.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]On-campus resources can include writing labs, library research assistance, counseling, advocacy services, career center, social groups, and accessibility services. Some programs do offer online tutoring or office hours with professors.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]However, while technology has expanded the reach of educational services, face-to-face interactions have significant benefits. They help establish trust in a relationship, boost active participation, and enhance conflict resolution.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list]
[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ align=”center”]Disadvantages of In-Person Nursing Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students who attend an in-person nursing program may experience greater interpersonal connections with their peers and professors. Yet, there are a few disadvantages to consider in how to choose between in-person vs. online nursing.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”ordered” bullet-style=”check”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Inflexible Schedule[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”xs”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In-person programs follow an inflexible course schedule. They may not meet the needs of working students or others who are caring for someone else at home. Gunn recognizes the challenges that traditional in-person students face.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]”The disadvantage for students in a face-to-face environment is travel, life, job, and other obligations that may not allow the student to be present (i.e. both physically and emotionally),” she says.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nursing programs can be expensive. Students who must repeat a class because they were unable to attend or did not get a passing grade, increase their costs. The inflexibility of the program may also cause a student to drop out of the program, leaving them with the expenses and no degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some programs offer [hen-ui-link href=”/resources//the-importance-of-mentorship-in-nursing/”]nursing mentors[/hen-ui-link] to in-person students to give them an accountability partner. Mentors can help students develop creative strategies to overcome the obstacles they face.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Commuting[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”xs”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nursing students are often short on time. Many are working outside of their course and clinical obligations. This leaves little time for other activities, including commuting back-and-forth to class.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A commute to class may take 30 minutes one way or longer with driving, parking, and walking to class. This adds an hour or more each day to an already packed schedule. In the past, traditional students have found ways of using this time. This may include listening to lectures on tape, dictating notes, or watching lectures on a commuter train.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list]
[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Choosing Between In-Person and Online Nursing Programs[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nursing students must take the time to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of online vs. in-person nursing classes. There is no one best decision that meets the needs of all students. “I think that a prospective nursing student should consider how they best learn,” Rhoads says.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Rhoads went on to advise students, “Personally, for a student who is attending school to become a nurse … for the first time, I recommend an in-person program. Nursing is a tactile skill and critical thinking discipline which are simply better developed in an in-person environment.”[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Also, many nursing programs are moving toward a hybrid model. So an online program could have in-person components like a lab requirement or meeting on campus a few times a semester. Likewise, many in-person settings are increasingly relying on technology. For example, many textbooks are digital, and tests for an in-person course may still be taken online outside of class time.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students need to weigh their options to find the program that best fits their needs. In addition to the advantages and disadvantages of each program, additional factors students may want to consider include:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Program cost[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Available financial aid[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Location of the program[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Faculty/student ratio[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Faculty approachability[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Flexibility of the schedule (e.g., can you go part time or accelerate the schedule to meet your needs)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Clinical hours requirements and placement assistance[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Format of online classes (synchronous or asynchronous)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Class size (meaningful interaction with the professor can drop in larger classes)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/nclex/things-to-know-about-the-nclex-exam/”]NCLEX examination pass rate[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]School ranking, such as for [hen-ui-link href=”/registered-nursing/best-rn-programs-by-state/”]RN programs[/hen-ui-link], based on academic quality, affordability, and reputation[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Classes to prepare students in [hen-ui-link href=”/resources//nursing-specialties-guide/”]nursing specialty[/hen-ui-link] areas[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Job interview and placement coaching[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ style=”margin-top:2em” align=”center”]Meet Our Contributors[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”lg”][hen-ui-expert-bio name=”Jenna Liphart Rhoads, Ph.D.” img-src=”https://res.cloudinary.com/highereducation/image/upload/v1/NurseJournal.org/Jenna-Liphart-Rhoads-bw.png?_a=BAMCcSOY0″ img-alt=”Jenna Liphart Rhoads, Ph.D.” layout=”horizontal” background=”white” /][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ slot=”contentRight”]Jenna Liphart Rhoads is a nurse educator and freelance author and editor. She earned a BSN from Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing and a master’s in nursing education from Northern Illinois University. Rhoads earned a Ph.D. in education with a concentration in nursing education from Capella University. Her clinical background includes surgical-trauma adult critical care and interventional radiology procedures. Rhoads has taught BSN, RN-BSN, and graduate nursing programs in Illinois, Texas, and Wisconsin.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”lg”][hen-ui-expert-bio name=”Lisa Eagans, MSN, RNC-MNN” img-src=”https://res.cloudinary.com/highereducation/image/upload/v1/NurseJournal.org/Lisa-Eagans-bw.png?_a=BAMCcSOY0″ img-alt=”Lisa Eagans, MSN, RNC-MNN” layout=”horizontal” background=”white” /][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ slot=”contentRight”]Lisa Eagans, MSN, RNC-MNN, has more than 20 years of experience serving in healthcare and is now the state director of prelicensure nursing for Western Governors University Indiana. Eagans is a lifelong learner who started her career as a CNA. She now has her master of science in nursing and plans to begin her doctorate soon.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”lg”][hen-ui-expert-bio name=”Linda Joyce Gunn, Ph.D., CPHRM, ACC” img-src=”https://res.cloudinary.com/highereducation/image/upload/v1/NurseJournal.org/Lisa-Joyce-Gunn-bw.png?_a=BAMCcSOY0″ img-alt=”Linda Joyce Gunn, Ph.D., CPHRM, ACC” layout=”horizontal” background=”white” /][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ slot=”contentRight”]Linda Joyce Gunn is a senior instructor in the College of Health Professions for Western Governors University. She earned a BS in operations management from Indiana University, MBA in finance from University of Notre Dame, and Ph.D. in organization development from Union Institute and University. Gunn has worked in management positions for both private and not-for-profit organizations with her most recent experience in a 600-bed hospital as director of risk management/physician services. She has taught in both traditional and nontraditional settings over the years.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Page last reviewed July 5, 2022[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Related Resources[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”slider” ids=”38045,37098,33990″][/hen-ui-article-row]
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