Are you a nurse who wants to take your studies to the next level or simply just recap what the medical industry is teaching these days? Getting a graduate certificate might be the best way to do that. A graduate certificate in nursing will give you the recap needed to work efficiently as a nurse. You’ll also learn updated methods of nursing, making you a better nurse in the end.
With that said, let’s take a look at taking a graduate certificate in nursing online.
What is a graduate certificate?
A graduate certificate is an academic qualification that’s available to students who have completed an undergraduate degree. They’re usually only a few months long, and they cover the fundamentals of whatever subject they are related to. For instance, the graduate certificate in nursing will cover the most updated methods and nursing practices while giving a broad overview of the nursing profession.
Pros & Cons of taking a Graduate Certificate in Nursing online
Like with any degree, there are always going to be pros and cons. For those of you looking to study for a graduate certificate in nursing, we’d suggest you weigh up these pros and cons before making your decision:
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Pros:
- Study when it suits your schedule
- Access classes from anywhere
- Learn comfortably from home, at your own pace
- Save money on travel and accommodation
- Use videos and other interactive resources
- Customise your study experience
- Improve your nursing qualifications
- Make friends and meet professionals virtually
- Keep studying even during tough times
- Get better at using computers and gadgets
Cons:
- Harder to learn practical skills
- Miss out on in-person interactions
- Stay on top of your learning
- Deal with internet and computer issues
- Might not get as much time in hospitals or clinics
- Juggle studying with work and life
Five benefits of taking a Graduate Certificate in Nursing online
Whether you studied another degree and want to do your graduate certificate in nursing or you’re a practising nurse and want to further your studies, here are five benefits that you’ll get from studying a graduate in nursing online:
Advance your career
A graduate certificate allows you to develop your skill set as a nurse. Broadening your expertise and making you more valuable as an employee. This can lead to more career opportunities opening up for you in the medical industry. Having a graduate certificate will demonstrate to your employers that you’re committed to improving your role as a nurse. It’ll let them know that you’re capable of more responsibility and that they can increase your capacity if needed.
Improves your knowledge of nursing
With the fast improvement of technology, people in every industry need to keep learning, especially in the medical industry. Nurses who have a graduate certificate in nursing are learning more about the industry they’re in, allowing themselves to be re-taught what they already know and learn new, innovative methods of doing the job.
You learn from specialists
Those who design the graduate certificate courses are specialists in the nursing profession, having developed the skills and experience to be the best at what they do. Nurses who take part in this course get to learn from the best, adding years of research, experience and success to their own and making them better nurses overall.
You can study while you work
Studying a graduate certificate online allows you to work at the same time as studying. You get to study in your own time wherever you are. As a bonus, if you’re working in a hospital you’re able to learn the new techniques and methods you’re learning practically, giving you one step up on those who are just learning the theoretical side.
The course is short
Finally, graduate certificates don’t require you to commit to another two to four years of studying. At most, they’ll take a semester or two to complete. So, for those who are looking a quicker solution to getting a nursing qualification under their belt, a graduate certificate in nursing is a fantastic choice.
FAQs
Are online graduate certificate nursing programs recognised by employers and professional organisations?
Yes, they are. Many reputable online graduate certificates in nursing are recognised by employers and professionals in the medical industry. Be sure to check the accreditation of institutes before choosing to study through them.
Can you specialise in a graduate certificate in nursing?
Yes, you can. Different institutes may offer the option to specialise in an aspect of nursing, like education, informatics, or management.