New RN...need help finding an online RN-MSN

[RedGlitter]

I recently graduated, and received my associates degree in nursing. I passed NCLEX and started working about 3 weeks ago in the ER. My goal is to be a nurse practioner (acute care or family np, unsure as of now). I really want to do RN-MSN, and online. Someone said look into WGU for BSN first, because its quicker and the cheapest, and then transfer somewhere for my MSN. However, I am nervous since WGU only has the pass/fail, highest GPA you can get is 3.0. I am not sure how many schools will accept that. I also looked into a few other programs, but some require a year or 2 working experience before you can apply, some offer MSN, but not NP track, and some you need to visit the campus once or twice for skills checkoffs. (And of course those are the ones that are across the country from me). I live in south PA (close to MD line). I looked into Walden and Loyola, also.

I am trying to save the headache, and figured I would just ask you all. Any reputable RN-MSN online programs out there that offer NP that you would recommend? Thanks!!

[meanmaryjean, DNP, RN]

WGU grads have been accepted at literally hundreds of universities for higher degrees, including NP.

http://alumni.wgu.edu/s/1110/16/site/wide.aspx?sid=1110&gid=1&pgid=1246

[llg, PhD, RN]

Penn State has a large online program -- and you would qualify for "in-state" tuition. I don't know if they have RN-MSN, but they might. Also, have you looked at York College of Pennsylvania? I think that is a state-sponsored school that should have reasonable prices. Drexel is good, too, but I believe they are pretty expensive. If you are in the western part of the state, look at the schools there. There are several -- and some might have the RN-MSN option you seek.

I always recommend looking at schools with a brick and mortar campus within reasonable driving distance (and that is a state school to reduce costs). It's always nice to be able to go to campus and meet with faculty or administrators if you have a problem to resolve.

And note: I teach in an online program. So I am not totally against online education. But based on my experiences, I think the option of driving to campus and talking with people face to face is a nice option to have if you can find it. So is in-state tuition. And with the number of nursing schools in Pennsylvania, you should look at them to see if any of them fit your needs before choosing a school without those advantages.