Exploring ABSN Programs for Indiana Students

This content was produced in partnership with Archer Education.

It’s no secret that the healthcare landscape is constantly growing as life expectancy increases. This is why nurses are in high demand, and this trend is likely to continue. Because of that, many people in Indiana and neighboring states are increasingly considering nursing as a viable career.

With online ABSN programs for Indiana students available, it’s become more accessible than ever to follow this career path. This article will look at some important nursing concepts while considering the pros and cons of online education.

What is an ABSN Program?

Sometimes, acronyms are confusing, but this article aims to break it down. A BSN is a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This is an undergraduate degree, which is ideal for anyone trying to become a registered nurse. It’s also useful for those with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN).

The “A” stands for Accelerated, so it’s an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The advantage of such programs is that you can finish them in 12 months. If you opt for an online program, it doesn’t mean you won’t get any practical experience. Most of such programs offer clinical placement support.

Online vs. Offline

A lot of people are somewhat wary of online career paths. They wonder how to achieve the same educational quality as a brick-and-mortar college. In truth, there are pros and cons for each.

When you opt for a physical college, you must consider commuting times, especially in Indiana, with its vast rural areas. It’s not only time-consuming, but the drive can be outright dangerous. Eliminating long commutes allows you to get a better study-life balance.

It’s also schedule-free. You can manage your time better with an online program, which is ideal for people with jobs or other activities such as helping people with disabilities or finding different real-life experiences to help you in your career.

Most online programs are also cheaper than their counterparts. This is a godsend for many who worry about cost when pursuing a BSN. Of course, many online programs also have financial aid options and scholarships.

On the flip side, you’ll miss the social aspects of being in college. Contact with your peers and developing a network is more difficult when studying online. Some people also enjoy visiting the campus and separating their home life from their studies.

Clinical Placement Is Key

Even though you’ll be partaking in online studies, it doesn’t mean you won’t get hands-on experience. In a state where even certified therapy dogs help people at the airport, the demand for top-notch clinical expertise is high.

You’ll get clinical placements in Indiana and surrounding states, along with the online coursework. This means training in hospitals, healthcare institutions, and others that are likely close to home, even though you’re in an online program.

This is extremely important because far distances can offset the non-commuting times of online lessons.

Is It Worth It?

If you’re considering furthering your education in nursing, it’s probably because you already have some experience. If you graduate from an online ABSN program, you’ll have developed essential skills such as critical thinking, clinical nursing judgment, and providing care for diverse and rural communities.

Besides, studies conclude that patients have better outcomes in hospitals with a higher percentage of nurses with BSN degrees. It means you’ll be a solicited professional, and thus, a multitude of job opportunities will be available.

These include pursuing a career in hospitals, community health centers, nursing homes, schools, etc. Nurses have 25% higher pay than the average worker, and the demand for registered nurses is expected to grow 9% by 2033.

Naturally, you’ll need to fully commit to your goals since it’s a demanding career. During your training, you’ll be required to complete clinicals up to three times a week, and the shift can range from 6 to 12 hours. It can become challenging for working nurses.

However, the rewards can be enormous and reach far beyond economic reasons. You’ll get to bring people back to health and care for them in various conditions. You’ll be a part of a professional team at times when it matters most: when health and even life are at stake.

Besides, it can open up other career possibilities, such as pediatric specialties, critical care, etc.

With the growing demand for BSN nurses in Indiana and surrounding areas, this is a great time to further your education and make your future brighter.