Medical careers are one of the fastest-growing segments in the labor market. The expanding population and growing number of baby boomers approaching retirement may soon place a strain on the resources of the healthcare system. The need for medical professionals in a wide range of capacities is also expanding. An advanced degree in nursing can provide nursing professionals access to a wide range of career paths in the medical field, including teaching at the university level, medical research and development or analysis of public health policy. An online doctoral program in nursing can provide busy professionals with the flexibility and personal time management needed to pursue an advanced degree.
There are many excellent online doctorate programs for nursing including American Sentinel University, University of Massachusetts Online and Brandman University. Online doctoral nursing programs typically require two years of instruction in the theoretical foundation of nursing before students choose a course concentration. Some choices include Doctor of Nursing Practice, Doctor of Nursing, Doctor of Philosophy or Doctor of Nursing Science. A two- to four-year program of further study and research in a chosen concentration area is then tailored to support the student's degree program and dissertation topic. Online Doctor of Nursing programs can prepare nurses for careers in higher education, clinical research, healthcare administration, advanced clinical practice and nursing management positions.
With the rapidly-expanding medical infrastructure, quality nursing professionals in all fields will be necessary to fulfill the rising demands of the medical community. An online doctoral program can provide careers in cutting-edge research, advanced clinical practice and public health policy. Nurses who wish to expand their career opportunities or move to the next level of the nursing profession may find an online doctoral program a stepping stone to the highest level of career achievement and fulfillment.