Graduates of Online ADN Programs in Louisiana enjoy great recruitment and are employed globally in various nursing capacities. To enable prospective nurses to pursue their desired nursing certification while juggling other obligations, Louisiana institutions offer online nursing programs at every degree level, from an associate’s to a master’s.
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With the numerous nursing programs available and the current need for nurses, students can choose from a variety of choices to earn an online nursing degree in Louisiana and begin a fulfilling career right away.
Some of the best flexible distance learning nursing programs in Louisiana are featured in this article, offering students a variety of degree options and the opportunity to prepare for a fulfilling career in healthcare.
Key Takeaways:
- The minimum educational requirements for nursing degrees in Louisiana vary depending on the type of program and the school a student selects.
- In Louisiana, some degree programs are Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing.
- In Louisiana, completing a nursing curriculum authorized by the relevant regulatory body is a prerequisite for becoming a registered nurse.
- Some nursing resources in Louisiana are the Louisiana State Nurses Association, Louisiana State Board of Nursing, and more.
- After the online adn program in Louisiana students can work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, schools, and universities among many others.
- Louisiana State University of Alexandria, Southern University and A&M College are among some of the best online adn programs in Louisiana.
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2023 report states that the median annual salary for registered nurses in Louisiana is $75,920.
What are the educational requirements for a nursing degree?
The educational prerequisites for obtaining nursing degrees in Louisiana differ based on the kind of program a student chooses to pursue and the institution of their choice.
A bachelor’s degree in nursing typically requires students to earn 120 credits from an approved university. To pursue a Master of Science in Nursing, candidates must hold a nursing bachelor’s degree and complete at least 35 credits.
Students can apply to the best nursing schools without prerequisites if they are not able to fulfill the stated eligible requirements.
Types of Online ADN Programs in Louisiana:
Leading approved colleges in Louisiana provide a wide range of possibilities for students looking to pursue an online nursing degree.
Working nurses in Louisiana will find plenty of flexibility and convenience to fit obtaining a degree around their hectic schedules, depending on their experience level and career choice.
In Louisiana, some examples of nursing degree programs are:
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Licensed Practical Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Master of Science in Nursing
How to become a nurse in Louisiana?
While the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) registers certified nurse assistants (CNAs) and the Louisiana State Board of Practical Nurse Examiners (LSBPNE) registers licensed practical nurses (LPNs), the Louisiana State Board of Nursing (LSBN) oversees registered nurses (RNs) and advanced practice nurses (APRNs).
In Louisiana, completing a nursing curriculum authorized by the relevant regulatory body is a prerequisite for becoming a registered nurse. To get a license or certification, you must also pass the pertinent competency exam. Before graduating, a student must complete 500–700 supervised clinical hours, regardless of the type of nurse they intend to become.
The minimal educational requirement for entry-level nursing work in Louisiana is an associate degree from a recognized institution, just like in other states. However, certain employers, especially in the private sector, may demand applicants to have the breadth of knowledge earned through a BSN program. An MSN is probably required for those who want to advance or pursue a career in healthcare administration.
Graduates of nursing programs at any level, regardless of their educational background, must hold both state and national licenses to practice as nurses.
What are the Louisiana nursing resources?
In order to learn more about educational opportunities, licensure requirements, and job trends, students who are considering a career in nursing in Louisiana might look into the following organizations:
1. Louisiana State Nurses Association (LSNA):
LSNA advocates on behalf of Louisiana’s nursing community and advances their professional growth. The group works to raise training and ethical standards in the nursing profession in Louisiana and promotes increased funding for educational initiatives.
2. Louisiana State Board of Nursing (LSBN):
APRNs and RNs are governed by the LSBN throughout the state. This includes establishing and assessing licensure criteria, running background checks, keeping an employee registry, and releasing yearly reports detailing the professional and demographic makeup of the nursing staff.
3. American Nurses Association (ANA):
Despite having a national focus, the ANA aims to empower nurses in all 50 states by promoting national nursing excellence standards and educating the public about topics and trends that affect nurses nationwide.
Where can students work after the online adn program in Louisiana?
Graduates of Louisiana’s online RN to BSN nursing programs frequently find employment in a variety of healthcare-related fields, where they may apply their enhanced knowledge and abilities to succeed in their positions. Among the places where one can work are:
1. Hospitals:
Hospitals, including acute care general hospitals, pediatric hospitals, mental health hospitals, and facilities for specialized care
2. Ambulatory care settings:
Ambulatory care environments, such as surgery centers, urgent care facilities, and doctor’s offices, allow you to directly treat patients while also assisting in the effective provision of healthcare.
3. Long-term care facilities:
They include hospice centers, retirement communities, and nursing homes where patients with chronic illnesses and needs for end-of-life care are cared for
4. Outpatient care centers:
Outpatient care facilities, which include dialysis centers, physical therapy offices, and standalone diagnostic imaging centers, are places where patients receive specialized treatment.
5. Schools and universities:
These include community colleges, universities, and secondary schools where you instruct future nurses.
6. Government agencies:
Federal, state, and municipal governments are examples of government organizations where you can create public health programs, carry out research, and encourage healthy living.
7. Nonprofit organizations:
Contributing to nonprofit groups that address social justice, disease prevention, and health promotion can enhance community health.
List of Top 10 Online ADN Programs in Louisiana:
1. Louisiana State University of Alexandria:
Louisiana State University of Alexandria (LSUA) offers top-ranked totally online RN to BSN program and innovative curriculum, making it one of the best nursing educations available to students.
Along with learning about the most recent developments in nursing practice, students receive training to enhance their leadership, communication, and critical thinking abilities.
Working students can pursue their ambitions without sacrificing their professional commitments when their class schedule is flexible. LSUA claims to be Louisiana’s sole undergraduate institution receiving state funding.
- Program Length: 14 months
- Cost per Credit: $325 per credit hour
- Required Credits to Graduate: 36-120 credits (LSUA accepts transfer credits of up to 75% of the requirements)Â Â Â
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
2. Southern University and A&M College:
The flagship institution of the Southern University System is this public, historically Black land-grant university. Among Louisiana’s top nursing schools, Southern University and A&M College is renowned for producing skilled and compassionate nurses.
Students can develop new skills and improve their current ones by enrolling in courses like health assessment, research in nursing, and transitions to professional nursing.
The university provides excellent faculty assistance and customer care to ensure a seamless online learning experience, even though all of its courses are offered entirely online.
- Program Length: One year
- Cost per Credit: Southern University provides an estimate of $10,000 for the required nursing courses to earn the degree
- Required Credits to Graduate: 24-120
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
3. Southeastern Louisiana University:
The entirely online RN to BSN program at Southeastern Louisiana University features an evidence-based curriculum that prepares professionals to deliver the highest caliber of care and significantly alter healthcare systems.
The degree is accessible to a wide range of busy RNs because to its flexible enrollment periods. One of the many resources available to students at the university is an allocated faculty coach who provides guidance and assistance from the time of admission until graduation.
According to reports, Southeastern University is Louisiana’s third-biggest university.
- Program Length: Approximately one year
- Cost per Credit: Southeastern provides a total cost of $9,500 for U.S. residents (covers tuition, books, and fees)Â Â
- Required Credits to Graduate: 31-120
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
4. University of Louisiana at Lafayette:
One of the nursing programs in Louisiana that integrates general education classes with essential nursing courses, such as genetic trends and health assessment, is the University of Louisiana at Lafayette (UL Lafayette).
This comprehensive online RN to BSN curriculum shapes nurses into professionals who can confidently make judgments in the field and care for patients. Additionally, the institution offers a range of online learning support services, such as online tutoring, to assist students at every stage of their studies.
The largest university in the University of Louisiana System is UL Lafayette, a nationally recognized research university.
- Program Length: One year
- Cost per Credit: $316.67 per credit hour (or package tuition of $9,500) and $283.33 per credit hour (or package tuition of $8,5000) for students affiliated with partner community colleges and hospitals
- Required Credits to Graduate: 30-120
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
5. McNeese State University:
The goal of McNeese State University’s 100% online RN to BSN curriculum is to generate competent nurses who can handle contemporary healthcare challenges.
Nurses may effectively communicate with patients and their families, use technology, and comprehend the wider implications of their practice by taking courses like Healthcare Communication, Patient Care Technology, and the Business of Healthcare.
They can effectively progress in their careers thanks to its expedited program. There are six start dates available, and there is a one-week break in between the seven weeks of instruction.
- Program Length: 10 months
- Cost per Credit: $300 per credit hour $233 per credit hour for students who qualify for the preferred tuition rate
- Required Credits to Graduate: 30-120
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
6. Northwestern State University:
Through its online global campus, Northwestern State University in Natchitoches offers a well regarded Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program for Registered Nurses (RNs).
Registered nurses with associate degrees or those with nursing diplomas are eligible to enroll in this finishing program. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) has granted it accreditation.
- Program Length: 11-12 months
- Cost per Credit: $225 credit every hour
- Required Credits to Graduate: 120
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
7. University of Louisiana, Monroe:
The curriculum for the accelerated Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing at The University of Louisiana in Monroe teaches fundamental skills and evidence-based healthcare to students.
The coursework covers subjects such as nursing management, public health nursing, and principles of pharmacology, among many others.
- Program Length: 14 months
- Cost per Credit: $291.67 credit every hour
- Required Credits to Graduate: 120
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
8. Louisiana Christian University:
A private Baptist university offering a Christ-centered education is located in Pineville and is called Louisiana Christian University.
Its Master of Science in Nursing program offers working adults convenience and flexibility and is designed for those who want to pursue careers in clinical nurse leadership.
Additionally, it provides an online RN to BSN degree that transfers right away to the MSN program. They are taught by professors with real-world nursing experience and expertise in remote learning.
- Program Length: One year
- Cost per Credit: $316.67 credit every hour
- Required Credits to Graduate: 120
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
9. Nicholls State University:
The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Nicholls State University in Thibodaux is renowned for its affordability.
This degree, which can be earned remotely, aids in the development of the patient-centered care and nursing informatics competencies and knowledge of registered nurses.
Students are prepared for a range of healthcare vocations in private industry, hospitals, and medical offices.
- Program Length: One year
- Cost per Credit: $275 credit every hour plus applicable fees.
- Required Credits to Graduate: 120
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
10. Loyola University, New Orleans:
A great option for obtaining an online nursing degree in Louisiana is Loyola University, located in New Orleans.
Its online courses are designed with working nurses in mind, who need ease and flexibility. They offer the same curriculum as those on campus and are instructed by knowledgeable instructors.
- Program Length: 14 months
- Cost per Credit: $275 credit every hour
- Required Credits to Graduate: 120
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
How much do people earn after online adn programs in Louisiana?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) report states that the median annual salary for registered nurses in Louisiana is $75,920. Earning potential, however, might differ depending on a number of variables, including geography, work history, employer, and extra training or specializations.
Additionally, BSN-prepared nurses typically earn more money than registered nurses (RNs) with an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN). According to studies, as of February 2024, BSN nurses in the state make an average of $34.43 per hour, while ADNs make an average of $27.82.
Frequently Asked Question
1. Who has the best nursing program in Louisiana?
– Northwestern State University of Louisiana.
– Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University.
– University of Louisiana at Lafayette.
– Nicholls State University.
– McNeese State University.
2. How long is the RN program in Louisiana?
The typical student at Louisiana Delta Community College will finish the nursing degree in six semesters, while the LPN to RN track will be finished in four.
3. Does Louisiana pay nurses well?
Based on an average hourly rate of $33.84, the annual pay of a registered nurse (RN) in Louisiana is $70,380, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
4. How many times can students take the NCLEX in Louisiana?
Within four attempts and four years of graduating, the applicant must pass the NCLEX-RN Examination. The applicant cannot be under investigation or currently facing disciplinary action from any nursing or other health regulatory board in any US state or foreign nation.
5. What is the highest-paying nurse program?
Additionally, CRNAs safely provide pain management services, usually in situations when doctors are unavailable. The highest-paid nursing profession is certified registered nurse (CRNA), with an average yearly salary of $235,000.
Conclusion:
To apply for licensing through the Louisiana State Board of Nursing, prospective nurses in Louisiana must first complete the coursework required to become a Registered Nurse or Licensed Practical Nurse through an authorized program.
Students must fulfill certain prerequisites, such as passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), to be eligible for licensure.
Completing the required paperwork and passing a criminal background check are additional requirements. The length of time it takes to obtain a license varies based on the student’s selected path of study.
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