As many healthcare professionals are anticipating a shortage of individuals who hold a nursing license RN, current and prospective nurses may want to consider earning a campus-based or online college degree, which could lead them into a lucrative career.

Many hospitals and doctor's offices are searching for ways to deal with an impending shortage. Unfortunately, few of these institutions have the means and accommodations to hire a great number of nurses. As a result, applicants who have high educational qualifications are likely to receive special consideration.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, individuals who complete diploma or associates programs may be eligible to obtain entry-level nursing positions. However, some industry experts say that completion of a bachelors degree program should be a prerequisite for registered nurses.

The American Organization of Nurse Executives and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing have suggested that a undergraduate degree should be a minimum requirement for entry into a nursing practice, according to a recent report from the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.

The study also cites research that indicates that nurses who have earned a bachelors degree from a campus-based and online school typically achieve better patient outcomes.