For the second straight year, the University of North Georgia (UNG) has placed in the top 50 of best online Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) degree programs in the nation by the online journal College Choice.
The rankings counted a number of factors, including program accreditation, national reputation, cost of tuition and early career salary levels of program graduates, according to information released this week by the university. A composite score was computed by balancing academic excellence with earnings based on a return on investment.
College Choice is an independent source that helps students and their families find the right college for a chosen profession. The publication ranked UNG 43rd in the nation, with a score of 73.54 (out of 100) and tuition average of $245 a credit hour. College Choice says UNG is highly-ranked as a regional university and its online presence offers nationally available high-quality online programs.
"The Nursing Department at UNG offers an affordable, Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing-accredited RN to BSN program for current registered nurses who desire to further their career with a BSN," the articles said. "Graduates are prepared for professional nursing practice in primary, secondary and tertiary settings as well as to care for individuals, families, and communities as clients."
"We are so pleased to be recognized by College Choice again this year," said Becky Murck, RN-BSN program coordinator. "The program provides a high-quality educational experience for adult learners. We have excellent, experienced, and committed faculty that are invested in student success."
Murck said the online format allows greater flexibility for the working registered nurse. Students have individualized pathways to meet course outcomes for the clinical courses as well as the option of obtaining clinical hours online or through direct patient care.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for registered nurses is projected to grow 16 percent from 2014 to 2024, far outpacing the average for all occupations. Growing rates of chronic conditions such as diabetes and obesity, an aging baby boom population living longer than past generations, and an increased emphasis on preventative care are the main reasons demand for nurses with advanced training will remain high.
