Exclusively online BSN program ~ Smart choice for CRNA prep?

[Carissa]

Hello All,

I thought this might be the most appropriate place for my questions due to my goal of applying to CRNA schools after working in an ICU for a year or two after graduation from a BSN program.

I'm moving unexpectedly from Seattle to Houston and have missed most of the BSN program deadlines in the Houston area; so I'm considering enrolling in an all online BSN program. The degree is from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, and the courses are entirely online and self-paced with clincals taking place at Houston area hospitals.

In your opinion, will having a degree from an exclusivly online BSN program put me at a disadvantage to other applicants when applying to CRNA schools?

Will I be lacking in areas a traditional BSN program would have better prepared me?

Will graduating from an online program make me a less desirable new grad candidate for ICU residency programs that are competitive?

If possible, I would also like to know why you hold the opinion you do.

I have previous experience in health care (I'm a CNA and an EMT) and am confident I have the discipline to do well in an self-structured program, I just want to make sure I am making the best decision. Although ideally, I do not want to wait an additional year before applying to BSN programs, I hate to waste my time getting a degree that is only going to be a disadvantage when pursuing my ultimate career goal.

Thanks in advance for all of your thoughts and opinions, I know some of the questions are largely unanswerable, but any insight is greatly appreciated!!! :)

[Carissa]

I actually feel I learned more from the online course. Having to write about what I read helped me to retain more from each chapter. I would recomend it over the traditional classroom setting. Some people that I have talked with are concerned about not being disciplined enough to do the reading/homework without someone to provide guidance. It's whatever works best for you. My friend is going to NP school and 50% of his class through Blackboard (an online forum some schools use). I don't know about CRNA school, but it looks like a lot of material in Master degree programs will be online even if it is considered a traditional program. From previos treads, it seems that the CRNA programs have a lot of hands on training, which is a good thing as far as I am concerned. Good luck.

Thanks so much for sharing your experience, good luck on your studies! :)

I really appreciate everyone's willingness to contribute their thoughts and opinions! Any other insight out there?

[SCmomof3, RN]

This topic greatly interests me, as I'm currently in an ADN program and plan to pursue my BSN online while working and then LATER go on to CRNA school.

I think that learning style may have an impact on your success in an online program. Personally, I get a lot out of my lectures. It helps me quite a bit as far as comprehension goes, even though one of my lecturers basically reads off the supplements. For some reason, it makes a difference. However, I have taken several courses online with no trouble at all. So it depends on many factors.

I have enjoyed reading this thread and look forward to more responses. :)