Are All Distance Programs Created Equal?

[Barkow]

I am finally considering distance learning CNM programs after a not so hot experience with a brick and mortar school during the application process (I am accepted for Fall, but having second thoughts due to the administrative headaches I've had to deal with already). I am thinking about Stony Brook's distance program where I'd pay in-state tuition, or someplace like Frontier that costs $100 more per credit. I am not the biggest fan of online education, so I'm wondering if my online experience with someplace like Frontier would be worth the extra money, or if distance learning is distance learning wherever you go. I am pretty much looking for the most hassle-free and smooth experience after what I've gone through already. I know there are a lot of pro-Frontier people on here, but I'm mostly wondering what people would choose if they also had the option of a less expensive state school. Thanks!

[SiennaGreen]

Haven't done it yet, but am a fan of Frontier in philosophy; I still have to say a less expensive, geographically closer school would be in the running. $100 a credit adds up to a few thousand dollars, correct? However, make sure you look at all costs involved, as well as financial aid available. What about co requisite and pre requisite credits involved? What does the curriculum look like and how well does that fit with what you want to be about as a CNM? How does the instate school handle clinical placements and do they have a substantial network to pool from? This wouldn't be as much of an issue if you already have preceptors in mind, but from scratch, it might be more important.

Just some thoughts I have been thinking also.

[Smark35]

I am a CNM student in Frontier's ADN-MSN bridge program. I chose Frontier because of the bridge program, their extensive experience with offering a high quality distance education, and the loyalty demonstrated to the school by former grads. I am now in my 3rd term (well past the honeymoon phase ), and I feel it is a great school. I had the opportunity to meet my classmates at Frontier Bound, the on-campus orientation. We have remained in close contact throughout our courses and many of us are now friends. We chat on facebook as well as the school forums. I feel very supported and the instructors are great.

I don't feel Frontier is more expensive than most graduate schools, but if money is a big factor in your choice, a local university may be what you're looking for. I can say with certainty that you'll feel you are part of a family at Frontier, and having that kind of support network behind me as I struggle through the tough parts of grad school is , to me, priceless. Good luck in your search, and your decision. :nuke:

[nyforlove]

I am a CNM student in Frontier's ADN-MSN bridge program. I chose Frontier because of the bridge program, their extensive experience with offering a high quality distance education, and the loyalty demonstrated to the school by former grads. I am now in my 3rd term (well past the honeymoon phase ), and I feel it is a great school. I had the opportunity to meet my classmates at Frontier Bound, the on-campus orientation. We have remained in close contact throughout our courses and many of us are now friends. We chat on facebook as well as the school forums. I feel very supported and the instructors are great.

I don't feel Frontier is more expensive than most graduate schools, but if money is a big factor in your choice, a local university may be what you're looking for. I can say with certainty that you'll feel you are part of a family at Frontier, and having that kind of support network behind me as I struggle through the tough parts of grad school is , to me, priceless. Good luck in your search, and your decision. :nuke:

Thanks, but I've read horror stories here on allnurses.com of NP students dropping out of on-line programs due to the very real inability to locate willing preceptors...does SUNY Stony Brook have a stable of NPs in NYCity willing to prcept NYC students so that we can....like, actually....graduate?? Thanks

[Smark35]

I can't anwer your question about SUNY Stonybrook as I am a Frontier student. I can tell you that Frontier has grads from all 50 states and other countries as well. They ...like.....graduated. Ok, that was a litte tongue in cheek. I know it can be difficult to locate a preceptor in some areas. One of the nice things about Frontier is that they actually pay the preceptor and certify them as faculty. This gives the preceptor an incentive in their wallet, as well as on their resume. I don't think many schools do this. Good luck in your search.:)