Various educational institutions offer part-time nursing programs for students who want to continue working full-time while pursuing their education or desire a flexible class schedule.
At the associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degree levels, there are various part-time nursing programs offered.
This article contains a well-researched overview of part-time nursing programs.
Part-time Nursing Programs Overview
Most institutions offer part-time nursing programs that can be completed to earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree.
Depending on the school you choose, your course load and program length will change, but part-time ADN programs typically take 2-4 years to complete.
You will have a deadline to meet all of the requirements for a part-time BSN program and some programs specify a period of five to ten years.
The part-time BSN programs offered by other institutions, however, can be finished in about three years.
Very few part-time nursing programs are offered entirely online, because most require some in-person attendance, along with clinical sessions.
Course Covered In Part-time Nursing Programs
If you want to enroll in part-time nursing programs, you can choose to attend classes in person, online, or on the weekends.
Depending on your program, you’ll spend a certain amount of time each week on academic obligations, but some part-time colleges estimate that you’ll only need 20 hours per week.
The courses you’ll learn on a full-time basis will be taught on a part-time basis, such as:
- Human physiology and anatomy
- Human development and growth
- Microbiology
- Pathophysiology
- Pharmacology
You will be expected to have a computer with a dependable internet connection if you enroll in a program that offers online courses.
Even though some online courses have set meeting times, others might let you finish assignments on your own time.
Licensure Information Of Part-time Nursing Programs
Every aspiring nurse must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for RNs and the other requirements for licensure differ from state to state.
Clinical practicums are a common feature of nursing programs that aid in preparing you for the licensing test.
Part-time programs may require a specific number of clinical hours per course, whereas full-time programs require students to complete a specific number of clinical hours each week.
Clinical requirements are usually completed by part-time students on the weekends or in the evenings.
Part-time Nursing Programs And Degrees
To obtain entry-level nursing degrees, students can pursue diplomas, certificates, and associate degrees.
When compared to the diploma or associate-level programs, which require two or more years of full-time study, learners can frequently accomplish certificates in as little as a year.
Part-time nursing programs cover nursing-related subjects like pathophysiology, communication concepts, fundamental health assessments, mental health, pediatrics, gerontology, and medical-surgical nursing.
1.Diploma in Nursing Program
A nursing diploma is one of the many part-time nursing programs open to aspiring RNs who wish to obtain licensure.
Only a few states offer this minimal educational level, which is needed to get a license.
RN diploma programs are commonly available to students through community colleges, technical institutions, and nursing schools with hospital affiliations.
Depending on the program, students can complete their diploma in two years or less, because some programs allow students to enroll either full- or part-time.
Each school has different entrance requirements but a minimum 2.0 GPA, SAT or ACT scores, a GED, or a high school diploma may be required.
Developmental psychology, adult nursing care, and nursing foundations are among the available courses.
2. Licensed Practical Nurse Program
Only LPN part-time nursing programs that have received accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing are considered by students.
If enrolled full-time, students can obtain their license in about a year, while part-time options take more time to complete.
A GED or high school graduation, minimum 2.0 GPA, valid transcripts, and a background check are minimum requirements even though enrollment criteria differ.
Nursing foundations, mental health nursing, and adult nursing are all common courses in LPN programs.
3. Associate Degree in Nursing
Universities and community institutions provide ADN programs to students and two years are needed for ADN programs with full-time enrollment.
But you can plan to complete your degree in four years if you are a part-time student. Most schools require a least 2.0-2.5 GPA, a high school diploma or GED, and a background check for admission.
Adult acute and chronic disease, maternal and child health, and mental health nursing are common topics covered in courses.
For this degree, the average number of clinical hours needed to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination is 700.
4. Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Most schools and universities offer BSN programs that students can enroll in but students should look for programs with regional or national accreditation.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing are two of the top programmatic accreditations.
Most BSN programs need at least four years of full-time study and students who study part-time should plan on doubling their time commitment.
A minimum 2.5 GPA, SAT or ACT scores, official transcripts, and letters of recommendation are frequently needed for admission to a school.
Advanced health assessment knowledge, lab simulations, clinical coursework, and clinical experiences are all part of the curriculum.
5. LPN-to-BSN Programs
Bridge programs from LPN to BSN give practitioners a quick chance to develop their careers.
These programs are distinct from conventional BSN programs because they require students to get an RN license before concentrating on RN-to-BSN coursework.
Bridge programs often shorten the duration of the program by giving students credit for previous education.
There are LPN to BSN programs offered by colleges and institutions, and many provide evening or online classes.
An LPN license, official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement are required for admission to the program.
6. RN-to-BSN Programs
An RN-to-BSN degree is available to RNs who are thinking about taking the next step in their career.
These programs are primarily provided by colleges and universities, and courses can be taken online or in a traditional classroom setting.
In contrast to conventional BSN programs, RN-to-BSN programs take into account the knowledge that students have acquired via past education.
While traditional BSN programs frequently adhere to a traditional semester-based schedule, RN-to-BSN programs may also follow a year-round format.
A minimum 2.5 GPA, an active RN license, official transcripts, and letters of recommendation are frequently needed for school admission.
7. Direct-Entry MSN Program
This type of MSN program, often known as an immersion program, draws applicants with bachelor’s degrees in unrelated fields.
For direct-entry MSN programs, students spend three years completing all course and clinical prerequisites.
Students who did not complete any requirements on their transcripts typically take longer to graduate than those who did.
And to graduate, degree candidates must finish their clinical rotations and coursework.
8. RN-to-MSN Program
These bridging programs are available to RNs who want to pursue a direct MSN degree but do not currently possess a BSN.
This expedited curriculum is provided by colleges and universities to assist RNs in fast achieving their professional objective.
Students in RN-to-MSN programs must finish liberal arts courses given in standard BSN programs before continuing to MSN coursework, which sets them apart from traditional MSN programs.
Students can complete their degree with full-time attendance in about three years, while it takes longer for part-time attendance.
An RN license, two years of experience, and official transcripts are required for admission.
9. BSN-to-MSN Program
Students can find online BSN-to-MSN part-time nursing programs that let them complete their degrees while holding down a job.
A patient care, advanced health assessment, and evidence-based procedures are the main foci of BSN to MSN programs.
Clinicals are also required in BSN-to-MSN programs, and students can choose a specialty.
A resume, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and prior work experience are frequently required for admission to the program.
10. Dual Master’s Degree Programs
To boost their earning potential and advance their careers, RNs frequently pursue higher levels of nursing education.
Depending on their enrollment, students who enroll in dual master’s degree programs should expect to finish their degrees in two to three years.
A 2.75 GPA is required for admission, along with letters of recommendation, a current RN license, and professional experience.
11. Doctorate in Nursing Programs
The two most popular doctoral degrees in nursing are the doctor of philosophy and the doctor of nursing practice (DNP).
The Ph.D. is a research-based degree that prepares nurses to work as academic researchers in the university faculty.
Graduates with a DNP have the tools and training necessary to function at the highest level possible in clinical organizations.
DNP holders sometimes earn greater incomes and work as chief nursing officers, university professors, or nurse practitioners.
Depending on the kind of degree they previously obtained, students often spend 2-4 years in school.
12. BSN-to-DNP Program
RNs who are interested in obtaining a terminal nursing degree can enroll in BSN-to-DNP part-time nursing programs, which prepare graduates for the most prestigious positions in the industry.
BSN-to-DNP programs prepare students to teach at nearby colleges and universities that may offer these courses.
Students in BSN-to-DNP programs must look into the material provided in an MSN, which sets them apart from DNP programs.
Students must also finish clinical coursework to meet licensing criteria and pick a specialization at the start of their degree.
Official transcripts, GRE results, letters of recommendation, and a personal essay are required for admission.
13. MSN-to-DNP Program
RNs looking for nursing schools with good returns on investment might wish to think about MSN-to-DNP programs.
Graduates of this practical degree deliver outstanding patient care since it provides advanced clinical knowledge and abilities.
Students also study leadership techniques and healthcare policies that support the success of healthcare institutions.
While MSN-to-DNP programs help students learn MSN content in addition to the in-depth research and advanced coursework offered in a DNP, traditional DNP programs require applicants to hold an MSN and an advanced license.
Conclusion
Although many part-time nursing programs are aimed at licensed vocational or practical nurses who wish to enhance their training, associate’s degree programs are occasionally created for persons who are new to the field of nursing.
So you can pursue an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in nursing while working a full-time job with these part-time nursing programs.
Regardless of the specific degree level, these part-time nursing programs instruct students in the best practices and evidence-based skills necessary to provide their patients with adequate care.
FAQ
Can I study Nursing part time in Australia?
The postgraduate nursing program lasts two years (full-time) or four years (part-time). You must hold an appropriate bachelor’s degree from Australia or an equivalent degree to be eligible for an Australian postgraduate program in nursing.
What field of nursing is the easiest?
Although many public health nurses do, certifications or advanced degrees are not necessary for this position. This is one of the lowest-stress nursing careers to enter because of the non-bedside work and office hours.
What is the easiest type of RN?
- Nurse Educator.
- School Nurse/Summer Camp Nurse.
- Nurse Administrator.
- Public Health Nurse.
- Nurse Researcher.
- Nurse Informaticist.
- Case Management Nurse.
- Home Health Nurse.
What does a part-time nursing schedule look like?
Most nurses work a more sporadic schedule, filling in for absent nurses or covering open shifts, while part-time nurses work regular shifts totaling less than 40 hours per week.
Can you hold a job while nursing school?
Working part-time while attending nursing school is feasible. According to the author and RN, MA, CSP Donna Cardillo, finding a part-time job in the healthcare industry may even be advantageous.
What is a part-time nurse called?
A PRN healthcare nurse, like a substitute teacher, only works when needed to fill a position. This might occur when a nurse calls in sick, takes a day off, or in other unique situations.
How much do part-time nurses make in Australia?
In Australia, the average part-time nurse earns $77,386 annually or $39.69 per hour. Most experienced workers can earn up to $101,659 per year, while entry-level positions start at $69,792 annually.
How many hours per week is part-time study in Australia?
Part-time students typically take one subject at a time, studying for 10–12 hours per week on average, with an EFTSL of 0.125. You can enroll in courses with a combined EFTSL of less than 0.250 through Open Universities Australia to be regarded as part-time.
What is the happiest nurse job?
- School Nurse.
- Labor and Delivery Nurse.
- Case Management Nurse.
- Nurse Educator.
- Parish Nurse.
- Travel Nurse.
What is the Chillest nursing job?
- Nurse educator.
- Long-term care nurse.
- Nurse administrator.
- Clinical research nurse.
- School or summer camp nurse.
- Clinic nurse.
- Nurse informatics.
- Lactation consultant nurse.