Choose the Best Online Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Program for You in 2022

Are you looking for the fastest track to your new nursing profession? For those who feel well positioned to manage the rigor and pace of a condensed program, accelerated and dual-degree nursing programs may be viable options. 

An accelerated degree program is specifically designed for students who have received their bachelor’s degree (or higher) in another field and are looking to transition into nursing. Dual degree programs enable students to enroll in two undergraduate or graduate programs at the same time so they can widen their expertise. 

Life can easily get in the way of studies—but with asynchronous and synchronous nursing programs, it doesn’t have to stop you from taking the next step in your career or educational journey. Both types of online degree programs may come with similar benefits of in-person schooling: regular communication with faculty and networking with fellow classmates. 

With asynchronous programs, you don’t have to worry about rearranging your work schedule and other commitments to make it on time for a pre-scheduled class. Asynchronous classes allow you to complete work when convenient, and schedule group work to accommodate the schedules of all involved. If you thrive in an environment with a set agenda of classes and enjoy participating in real-time discussions, then consider synchronous online classes. 

You may choose to pursue a CNS program on a full-time or part-time basis. When weighing the pros and cons of each program, it’s important to be aware of the differences in commitment, time, and money. Full-time degree programs generally have a higher credit minimum per semester. Alternatively, for students looking for a smaller number of credit requirements per semester spread out over a longer length of time (often allowing them to work to attend to other responsibilities), part-time may be the better fit.

Ready to earn your degree and start improving the health and well-being of your patients? Before you apply to a CNS program, there are a few items that you’ll likely have to prepare to submit: transcripts from an accredited institution, letters of recommendation, your resume, a personal statement, and possibly GRE scores. 

For some master’s degree programs, you may need a current registered nursing (RN) license. Each state and college or university will have slightly different certification, application material, standardized testing scores, and GPA minimum requirements. That’s why it’s important to review all admission specifications before deciding on a program. And most importantly, make sure to check for any application deadlines. 

To complete your MSN degree, you may need to take courses such as care management, advanced pathophysiology, health care information systems, and global health and diversity. Specific CNS curriculum depends on the program, but students can expect to learn general advanced practices, as well as the skills needed to provide direct diagnostic and treatment care to patients.

With your nursing degree and license in hand, you’ll be able to assist with basic primary care, family planning, pain management, and prescription administration, among other duties and tasks. While some soft skills such as patience and compassion may help on the job, an online CNS program will teach you best practices for the field—like how to work independently with patients or collaboratively with a surgical team. They’ll also likely teach you about the latest technology and lab systems. 

Advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) programs, including CNS programs, have a hands-on learning portion through clinical placements. These practice-based courses or internships expose students to a clinical setting before graduation, showing them the full scope of the role for which they are preparing for. As part of their internship or immersion in operating clinics, students will be able to apply their knowledge, fine-tune their nursing skills, and gain real-life experience.