Definitions of Types Of Nursing Programs
There are several different types of nursing programs offered in Ohio. The definitions that follow are from the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission's (NLNAC) Directory of Accredited Nursing Programs. Below each definition are links to lists of Ohio schools from the NLNAC and/or the Ohio Board of Nursing.
BACCALAUREATE DEGREE - A degree program affiliated with senior colleges and universities leading to the baccalaureate nursing degree. Graduates are eligible for licensure as a registered nurse and employment in a variety of inpatient care settings and ambulatory care settings including hospitals, community agencies, schools, industries, home health care and clinics. A baccalaureate degree is required for additional preparation at the master’s and doctoral levels.
NLNAC list of Baccalaureate Degree Nursing programs in Ohio
Ohio Board of Nursing RN Education programs (pdf file)
DIPLOMA - Usually a hospital based program with a course of study of two to three years in length leading to the award of a diploma. There may be an affiliation with a junior or senior college for the general education component of the curriculum. Graduates are eligible for licensure as registered nurse and are generally employed in hospitals and long term care facilities.
NLNAC list of Diploma Nursing programs in Ohio
Ohio Board of Nursing RN Education programs (pdf file)
ASSOCIATE DEGREE - A program usually affiliated with junior, technical and community colleges leading to the associate degree in nursing. Some associate degree programs are found in senior colleges and universities. Associate degree programs usually two years in length include course work in general education and nursing. Graduates are eligible for licensure as a registered nurse and are prepared to practice in structured care settings
NLNAC list of Associate Degree Nursing programs in Ohio
Ohio Board of Nursing RN Education programs (pdf file)
LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSE (LPN) - A program one year in length leading to a diploma. Programs may be found in hospital settings, vocational settings, or junior and community college settings. The graduate is eligible for licensure as a licensed practical nurse or licensed vocational nurse. The practical nurse functions under the guidance and direction of a registered nurse.
NLNAC list of Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Ohio
Ohio Board of LPN Education programs (pdf file)
MASTERS DEGREE IN NURSING - A program leading to a graduate degree with a major in nursing offered by a senior college or university. The masters degree builds on the knowledge, skills and competencies of baccalaureate nursing education and provide for the attainment of advanced knowledge, and for specialty nursing. Graduates are prepared to work in a variety of settings and a variety of advanced practice nursing roles. The masters degree is usually required for entry into doctoral study.
NLNAC list of Masters Degree Nursing programs in Ohio
JOINT PhD in NURSING - This joint program between Kent State University and The University of Akron prepares scholars in nursing. Consistent with the Boyer Model, the JPDN will focuses on nursing research and its application for clinical practice and education in a variety of settings.
NURSING DOCTORATE DEGREE - A post baccalaureate nursing doctorate curriculum provides for entry into professional nursing practice and preparation for initial licensure. Graduates are prepared to practice within and across diverse healthcare settings.
Case Western Reserve University
Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing
10900 Euclid Avenue
Cleveland, OH 44106-4904
(216) 368-2545
(216) 368-2545