Getting BSN Online?

athena55, BSN, RN · Jul 5, 2007

Hi there and I hope you had a safe Forth of July.

I received my BSN from California State University, Dominguez Hills On Line, and I am currently enrolled in a on line Family Nurse Practitioner Program, as well.

PROS & CONS:

*You don't have to get up early, get dressed, find transportation to University/find parking in the rain or snow to attend classes

* You can do homework at 0300 sitting in your Pj's drinking a cup of tea

* You can submit your required homework anytime

* May have to find a sponsor for any exams your program requires you to take

* Probably have to line up your own preceptor (this could be tricky especially if you are considered an out of state student. Example: I live in NYC yet my undergraduate program was in California)

* I feel there is way more required work that must be submitted on line vs. attending an on site program (I've done both: attended my local college AND attended the on line program both at the same time while working full time 12 hour nights!)

* Tuition costs may run you a wee bit more if you are an out of state student

I must say, I am hooked on distance learning programs.

Good Luck to you and let us know which program you decided upon!

athena

graceland · Jul 5, 2007

Does anyone know about Pace University's online program--RN to BSN? What other online programs are offered in NYC? How do employers feel about BSN thru online studies?

Thanks to anyone who can provide some info---athena55 your comments were very helpful!

nanacarol · Jul 5, 2007

I just completed my BSN online using Kaplan University. I can't say enough positives about the quality of the instructors or the program. I caution you to make sure the program is accredited and from a reputable agency. The course work was very intense and required that I stay focused and keep deadlines. As it sounds from your post being away from family and other obligations is not an option, this was the case with me. I checked out Phoenix Online, Walden University and I have applied to Indiana Wesleyan University for the Masters program Online.

Best of everything to you

nanacarol

Trauma Columnist · Jul 5, 2007

I did online education for both my BSN and MSN and was very happy with it. It did seem to involve more self-discipline as there are no classes to go to, so it was easy to slack off. However, you just have to find time to do it if you want to succeed. Good luck.

nursejcarrie · Jul 7, 2007

I am currently enrolled in an online RN to BSN through Penn State University's World Campus. I must say that I love it. I, too , have a family and cannot make it to classes. I like the flexibility that the online classes give me on getting my work done. I can do it all at once, or a little at a time. It's my choice. However, if you aren't disciplined enough, the time can get away from you. Good time management skills are a must. But if you are interested, go for it!!! It's almost like having the best of both worlds! :idea:

jennieojala · Jul 10, 2007

I have a BSN and I would like to get my MSN and teach nin a 2 year college. I am debating between doing it online (South University) and a local school here in Minnesota.

I am afraid that any future employer would not take a online MSN degree as seriously as a brick and morter institution (although South Universiy also has on campus degrees).

What has been you experience? Do employers care?

Jennie

nanacarol · Jul 10, 2007

I work in Ohio and I am entering an online Masters program this September, my employer and thos in this area don't seem to care where the degree comes from as long as the program is accredited.

Best of everything to you

nanacarol

48RVRN · Jul 10, 2007

I got my BSN online and I'm very happy with the experience. I did do some checking before I started the program though. You can check with your local NLN chapter and get their opinion. Also check and see if the online program is eligible for a Sigma Theta Tau chapter. If it is then bets are that the institution is a good one.

caliotter3 · Jul 10, 2007

I would recommend staying away from Chamberlain. They just dumped their out of state students. If they start working with out of state students again, they would still be unreliable in my view. When the time comes, if it ever does, I plan on doing my BSN online with Cal State Dominguez Hills. There are so many programs to choose from with more starting up everyday. Just make sure you do plenty of investigating before you commit yourself. Good luck.