WGU for MSN and NP programs

Nursing Students Western Governors

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Hey everyone!

So, I have a couple questions that I could use some help with. Currently I am working on my ANS and am on track to graduate next Dec so I am starting to look at options for what is next. I have heard multiple people talk about and that they got their MSN through it. It really appeals to me because it is all online, is accredited, and I can do my ASN to MSN and will get my BSN in between. My first question is has anyone gone this route? If so how does transferring credits out of WGU work? I know it is accredited but I also know there is no letter grade for classes...it is pass fail. Next I am wanting to get my NP when all is said and done and I know WGU does not offer this obviously. Are there any schools in IN that offer a stand alone NP course for after I achieve my MSN? I know a lot of MSN programs include NP in the curriculum so when you graduate you sit for that test to get the licensure. But, I have not talked with anyone who has obtained their NP after already having a MSN so I am not sure how to go about that.

Any help would be much appreciated! Thanks everyone!

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.

If you want to complete an online MSN degree through and wish to become an NP afterward, look into post-masters NP certificate programs.

WGU's pass/fail competencies equate to a 3.0 GPA.

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I spoke with 's admissions last month, and they informed me they are working on starting an NP program soon but do not have a set date yet.

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That is awesome to hear! I hope that starts soon. Thanks for the info

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Specializes in Reproductive & Public Health.

I got my MSN from then attended a CNM program. The program I attended did not offer a master's, but offered concurrent enrollment in another university to get a master's if you didn't already have one. i am really, really glad I took the route I did. It eased a bit of the stress of trying to juggle school/work/kids, not having to do both the MSN and the midwifery cert at the same time.

The 3.0 GPA is a huge consideration though. Most schools require a minimum of a 3.0 to be considered for entry, so your resume/qualification have to be stellar in order to make up for the 3.0 GPA. I like the way WGU is structured, but I wish they would do something to let you earn a better GPA! I have always been a 4.0 kinda girl, so that 3.0 was a tough pill to swallow. Worth it though. Would definitely do it again, with the benefit of hindsight.

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Specializes in Medical-Surgical/Float Pool/Stepdown.
I got my MSN from WGU then attended a CNM program. The program I attended did not offer a master's, but offered concurrent enrollment in another university to get a master's if you didn't already have one. i am really, really glad I took the route I did. It eased a bit of the stress of trying to juggle school/work/kids, not having to do both the MSN and the midwifery cert at the same time.

The 3.0 GPA is a huge consideration though. Most schools require a minimum of a 3.0 to be considered for entry, so your resume/qualification have to be stellar in order to make up for the 3.0 GPA. I like the way WGU is structured, but I wish they would do something to let you earn a better GPA! I have always been a 4.0 kinda girl, so that 3.0 was a tough pill to swallow. Worth it though. Would definitely do it again, with the benefit of hindsight.

I thought the end GPA at was combined/calculated with your previously earned GPA?...

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Specializes in NICU, ICU, PICU, Academia.
I thought the end GPA at WGU was combined/calculated with your previously earned GPA?...

Nope. 3.0. But as gains notoriety (the good kind- NLN Center of Excellence and all) the GPA issue is going away. I was accepted into two DNP and a post-Masters NP program with my WGU MSN.

Oh, and the NP program is being discussed ONLY. No firm plans to offer it yet. (I have this from the highest possible source.)

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Can you tell me which DNP NP programs didn't give you a hard time accepting your MSN from because I have also got my MSN from WGU and looking for an online school for my NP and haven't found one that hasn't made an issue about WGU. Thxx so much.

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Specializes in NICU, ICU, PICU, Academia.
Can you tell me which DNP NP programs didn't give you a hard time accepting your MSN from WGU because I have also got my MSN from WGU and looking for an online school for my NP and haven't found one that hasn't made an issue about WGU. Thxx so much.

University of Southern Indiana. I am attending Touro Nevada and was also accepted at Chatham University in Pennsylvania. I would advise you to search the threads here, because grads are/ have attended lots and lots of post-grad and grad schools without problem.

YOU have to do a little work too in providing the school information about competency based education. Get a hold of your student mentor and ask about having someone from WGU go to bat for you as well.

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Thxx so much.

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