Capella RN to MSN

Nursing Students Online Learning

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Hi all,

I started Capella University's online RN to MSN program 05/2016 and am focusing on nursing education for specialization. I thought I'd post in case anyone is looking for info about Capella's RN to MSN program. Before I enrolled I searched and wasn't able to find a whole lot to answer my questions.

Right now I am in the first of the four bridge classes (MSN5000) and really enjoying it. There are 2 discussion posts due each week and 3 written assignments for this class. I'll see how my other classes are but so far my professor has provided us grading rubrics that are very specific so it is not difficult to get A's on assignments if you follow the rubric. The classes are 10 weeks long and there are a total of 17 classes for the RN to MSN program. I think there are 13 (?) classes for an MSN if you already have a BSN degree. The first course they had me take by itself and next quarter I will be taking the remaining 3 bridge courses since I am currently off work for a few more months. After that I'll prob take 2 courses at a time and I think it'll be doable. The workload definitely is doable, you have to put work into it but if you do what is asked and put in the effort you can get A's. Also they provide TONS of assistance to help us succeed, which is nice. I was told that there is NO group work (HUGE plus!) throughout the program and I haven't heard differently from any of the other Capella students I've talked to.

I was nervous to go back to school since it had been years since I got my ADN and I was jumping right into graduate courses but I am totally impressed by Capella and feel really good about my choice to attend. I know it costs a bit more than some other schools (I'm paying about $22k for my RN to MSN). I like that I don't feel "alone" in front of a computer even though I can log in whenever I want LOL my instructor and fellow students stay in contact with each other through the courseroom which is nice.

Anywhooooo... if anyone has questions that I might be able to answer I'd be happy to. I'll try to keep updating this thread as I go along in my classes too. If anyone else is studying at Capella please chime in!

@hankia1, did you decide on the program? And which program if you did? Thank you. Best wishes. 

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Specializes in Med/Surg, LTACH, LTC, Home Health.
3 hours ago, RaiRN said:

Thank you for your posts! I am considering going to school for FNP. Do you have any suggestions? I am trying to decide if I should go to Grand Canyon, Chamberlain or Capella? 

Not sure if this was in reference to my posts, but here is my 2 cents. ? 

I suggest doing your research based on your end goals and timeline. I have no experience with Grand Canyon or Chamberlain, nor am I pursuing the FNP (I don't want the aggravation that I see our FNPs endure). Everyone's experiences are different, though.

Capella University has the flexibility that I need in their FlexPath option, as I am an older learner and do not plan on being in school for the next few years. They also had a Care Coordination specialty (this will help me land that work-from-home position that I want someday soon ?). As of a few minutes ago, I've just registered for my last course before the capstone. I hope to finish this course before Christmas (by New Year's Eve at the latest) so that I can really focus on the capstone/practicum requirements at the turn of the year. 

If I had to sit through semesters for another 2-3 years, I would simply settle for the BSN that I currently have. Younger folks may have more time to expand at their leisure and a greater attention span that I have. Believe me, all of that plays a part in degree consideration. 

I would suggest comparing specialties, admission requirements (GPA), costs of attendance, specific courses, and any areas of academic weakness that you may have, and the demands of your personal situation and start from there.. 

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Specializes in Case management, Home Health, Nursing Supervisor.
On 12/12/2020 at 11:53 AM, RaiRN said:

Thank you for your posts! I am considering going to school for FNP. Do you have any suggestions? I am trying to decide if I should go to Grand Canyon, Chamberlain or Capella? 

I am also interested in any answers to this question. I am currently enrolled in the BSN-MSN flexpath at capella, but just realized that I cannot obtain the degree at Capella that I need to pursue my FNP. Any suggestions to which masters degree in nursing to obtain at capella in order to obtain my FNP, or which masters program do you all foresee being the best one for finding employment?

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