If you are considering becoming a nurse, you might want to consider online Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN)  traning programs. Becoming an LPN is a great career choice because of the growing need for skilled nurses throughout the country.  There are some great schools to choose from to help you reach that goal. Many schools now offer these programs online as well as in the class room settings and some are specifically online training.   There are a number of pros and cons to consider.

Students may choose to study almost exclusively though an online program which offers classes through the computer. The benefits of this are many but one of the main ones is that you can keep your current job while taking nursing classes online. In an online program you can choose to attend classes at times that fit your schedule and avoid having to travel to and from your school’s campus at various times of the day.  This of course has some pretty substantial financial benefits; continued earning and reduced costs for travel, lodging and higher tuition at institutional centers of learning.

Another great benefit of online licensed practical nursing schools is that they often offer classes that you can complete in less time than a traditional class takes. Most traditional classes may last many weeks or months, but internet-based classes may take just a few short weeks to cover the same about of work. This is a great benefit because you can complete your studies more quickly and start working  in your new career sooner.

One of the potential downsides of online LPN  programs is  the lack of real interaction with instructors.  It may be more difficult to find solutions to problem areas without the one on one engagement.  In many cases, online instructors often can be accessible by email or phone.  Many of the online instructors will have regular office hours just like traditional instructors.  With good quality online programs a method will be provided to get easy to reach through email and telephone. In fact, it can be much easier to get in touch with your instructors because they are aware that their students have various hours and study times, so they make themselves available more often.

Another disadvantage with online programs is the lack of social interaction more possible in the classroom.  A great deal of learning in schools takes place with the after class conversations about the course materials.    Taking classes through the internet may mean that you can’t make as many friends however, with social media available today you can meet your fellow students on Facebook, Skype, email, etc.

The classes are designed to ensure that students still have opportunities to work together and talk either through email or phone. Most classes still require students to work as groups on projects and while doing research so that students don’t feel isolated or alone. In addition, many schools will offer nurse training program options that include a combination of internet-based and traditional classes so you are also able to make friends and benefit from student interaction.

Online nurse training programs are an effective venue to becoming a nurse quickly and cost effectively. Though there are some negatives to these kinds of programs, they are easily overcome with a little effort. Studying online is a great option for busy people who are looking to make a career change while still keeping their current job because you can attend classes on your own schedule. You can also finish your education more quickly which is one of the best aspects of studying online.  And, best of all, it costs less for the most part!