Nurses Guide to Magnet Hospitals


In 1993, the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) announced it’s Magnet Hospital Recognition Program for Excellence in Nursing Services program. The American Nurses Association and the ANCC recognize Magnet hospitals as those who create and sustain a culture of excellence. In 1997, the program became known as The Magnet Nursing Services Recognition Program. But what … Keep Reading

5 Nurse Careers That Require A BSN


Many prospective and experienced nurses are unaware of how many exciting career opportunities exist outside of bedside nursing. While the skills you gain through delivering patient care at the bedside provide an excellent foundation for your nursing practice, these skills are also easily transferable into a variety of other unique nursing roles. Looking to work … Keep Reading

7 Ways COVID-19 Will Change The Future Of The Nursing For The Better


Please enjoy this guest post about the future of nursing from Sarah Jividen of Mother Nurse Love: In 2020, COVID-19 hit the US with a force that brought unprecedented changes within the nursing profession. Not since the Spanish flu pandemic of 1918 – that sickened ⅓ of the entire world’s population over the course of … Keep Reading

Student Spotlight: Theresa G. Proudly Pursued Her DNP


Please enjoy this personal essay from Dr. Theresa Gress, RN, BSN, MSN, DNP. When Theresa was a child, she said she would “become a nurse before becoming a doctor.” Truer words have never been spoken.  Some of us have many pathways to success. Some of us do not. Regardless of the walk it takes to … Keep Reading

So You Want an MSN in Nursing Administration?


Nurse administrators — many of whom earn an MSN in Nursing Administration prior to or after they assume the position — draw from a blend of nursing, business, and leadership skills. Education levels, titles, and settings for nurse administrators may vary, but generally, they often oversee the nursing staff, patients, and administrative duties.  Many nurses … Keep Reading

What Is Nursing Informatics?


Do you have a love for technology and nursing? Does the thought of analyzing data that affects patient care and outcomes excite you? If you answered “yes” to either question, then nursing informatics might be the specialty for you. What is Nursing Informatics? According to the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) and the … Keep Reading

Student Spotlight: Zhiying, RN to BSN, “My Life Is Renewed”


We proudly share this beyond inspiring personal essay from Zhiying Wu who completed Aspen’s RN to BSN program in April of 2020. When Zhiying’s husband sadly succumbed to illness, “Aspen remained as a Light for me. The busy assignments and projects kept me from the darkness of the grief.”…“One of my past professors, my dearest … Keep Reading

4 Ways to Stay Competitive Throughout Your Nursing Career 


The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the job outlook for RN’s is growing 7%, faster than average. There might be plenty of nursing opportunities available, but it’s crucial to ensure you’re maintaining—or striving toward—one that matches your career goals.  The demand for nurses could be unevenly distributed across geographic locations; the most desired … Keep Reading

What Can You Do With An MSN In Nursing Education?


Nurses decide to advance their education for many reasons. An increase in income, more job opportunities, and personal achievement are just a few. If you are considering advancing your education, consider pursuing a Master’s Degree in Nursing (MSN) in Nursing Education. While the nursing shortage continues, qualified and credentialed nurse educators are needed. In addition … Keep Reading

Meet Our Faculty: Patricia McAfee


Aspen University invites you to meet our faculty! Our teachers are outstanding educators — committed, compassionate, and knowledgeable. In this new series, get to know some of our faculty members up close and personal.  Dr. McAfee credits her daily Bible readings as a source of inspiration and divine intervention for obtaining her teaching role at … Keep Reading