to live near a nursing school or relocate, at least temporarily, to attend one in another community. Fortunately, prospective nursing students have many more options today, in large part due to the growing numbers of online nursing programs. Innovative online nursing programs have made it possible for students to take classes from home or work. The distance education format creates a community of learners from across the country and affords busy adults the opportunity to pursue a formal academic degree without having to leave their jobs, families, and communities to attend classes on campus.