What is a Nursing Bridge Program?
A nursing bridge program allows students to fulfill part of their nursing program requirement with the help of extra coursework completed at another institution. There are many benefits to enrolling in a nursing bridge program; it allows students to build the necessary medical skillset without disrupting their current workload, and students to continue to earn college credits while completing a college nursing program. Plus, it allows students to continue their education at a school of their choice. Below, we discuss what a nursing bridge program is and how it can benefit you.
Benefits of a Nursing Bridge Program
In most states, after your nursing program is finished, you must pass the NCLEX-RN examination. Completing this exam can also help you move forward in the nursing career. You may be required to wait a certain number of years before taking the NCLEX-RN again, depending on your level of experience and training.
When completing your nursing program, you will need to complete a minimum of two years of nursing education at an approved nursing school. For example, a two-year nursing bridge degree program allows students to earn credits towards their nursing degree at the same time as they complete the nursing program. By participating in a nursing bridge program, students can earn additional credits towards their nursing degree.
Participating in a nursing program is often helpful to nursing students who have yet to earn their Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in nursing. These students typically struggle with both the time commitment and the costs associated with enrolling in a traditional college nursing program. A college nursing program may also involve long hours and strict course schedules.
Once you have completed your nursing degree program, you may need to take a state exam in order to receive your nursing license. If you choose to participate in a nursing bridge program, your credits can go towards earning your Associate’s or Bachelor’s of Nursing degree. This helps you complete your coursework in a manageable amount of time while still being able to apply your newly-acquired skills in the healthcare field.
Many nursing degree programs are transferable to other types of nursing positions. In order to qualify for transferability, you must complete all the requirements of your current nursing program. That’s why a nursing bridge program is ideal for students looking to move from one nursing position to another in the future.
While many students who complete a nursing program seek to continue their education by entering the workforce immediately, some want to return to school for a different reason. Some want to pursue Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification or continue their education through a nursing-degree program that allows them to get a master’s degree. Whether you have been nursing for years or simply want to acquire new technical skills, or get a jump-start into a new career, a nursing bridge program can be ideal for you. You can pursue your dreams and get the education you need to become a more qualified nursing professional in less time and at a lower cost of tuition than you might think.