Good online msn programs?

DAP AGPC-NP-C · May 19, 2011

I just graduated from Loyola New Orleans online program- MSN /HCSM (health care systems management). I chose the online version even though I live in the New Orleans area. The program and faculty were very supportive throughout the entire program. I only have positive things to say about the program.

suni, BSN, RN · May 22, 2011

I have done UOP for my BSN and now am in Walden for my MSN. I have been pleased with Walden both price wise and content of courses. I also have found that the library support is great at Walden and my classmates have also been fanatastic.

BCRNA · May 22, 2011

There are many good online schools, I would recommend sticking with schools that have a "brick and mortar" base unless you know they qualify for getting initial certification and you don't plan on going back to school for anything else. Some online programs are seen as degree mills and not respected, but if they allow you to get certification that doesn't matter. Usually no one asks where you went to school in the clinical setting. If you want to get into teaching, ask the place you are interested in teaching at if they would hire someone with a degree from that school. All universities I work at would not even interview a UOP graduate. When I was looking at graduate schools, there main criteria to get in was just paying the tuition. I am sure there are plenty of other people with the opposite opinion, I can tell you that you need to pick the online program carefully. Consider what exactly you want to do with the degree. Also, if the program doesnt spell out specifically what the degree requirements are, what classes have to be taken, and what the entrance requirements are; then avoid it like the plague. If you have to give them your contact information to get any type of information about their program then they are not legit.

Walden has a good reputation. UOP might be fine for just the BSN, but PhD and MSN is a joke. JMO. But when I was looking for a good doctoral program the only requirement to get into the PHD was paying the tuition, criteria to get in was almost non-existent. I dont think the GRE actually proves anything, but they dont even require writing samples or any proof of academic ability above a minimum GPA. And even the minimum GPA required was unusually low for a doctoral program.

DAP AGPC-NP-C · May 28, 2011

Loyola in new Orleans is a bricks and mortar school with the option to go to class on campus or do the online version. In the end, no one knows which one you did. I thought the program was great!

dmpearce · May 28, 2011

Thanks! I agree, uop is kind of a joke, and creepy stalker like once they get your phone #.

so far, I love Georgetown... But 1600 a credit? :-0

Is there a good online listing of these programs? I googled, but I get alot of advertising sites and schools that say call for details with a big 800 number on the page... I tried us news but I'm noticing that their site lumps all online nursing together- bsn, partly online, and fully online.

-dani

CodyRN · Jun 24, 2011

I am considering this program (Loyola MSN-HCSM). I still need to make some phone call inquiries but wondering if anyone else knows...

1) If you take this online (or distance ed) will your graduation/degree certificate indicate that it was done online?

2) Can you start at any time or do you have to wait until fall to start?

3) Best ways of obtaining financial aid--are the federal unsubsidized student loans enough?

4) Is it a requirement to actually go to N.O. for the interview or can you do it by telephone if you live out of the area?

5) Do you have enough access to resources (library/electronic database/etc.) that you need?

Thank you all so much in advance for anything you may be able to share about this program!!:heartbeat

DAP AGPC-NP-C · Jun 24, 2011

I just graduated from Loyola in New Orleans in May. I live in NO and had a choice...go to campus or do the online version...i chose the online version. When I graduated my diploma states I earned a msn degree in the college of social sciences. It does not state it was online. The school is very well received in the area, and I've been accepted into 2 post masters np programs so far for the fall. The library support was great, online access to journals for free as well as ordering books from the library. The interview is completed by phone. School starts summer, fall, and spring...but some classes are only offered one time a year so you need to stay on your planned schedule or you may have to wait for it to come around. Overall, the program was great!

CodyRN · Jun 25, 2011

Congratulations on your MSN and also on getting accepted into the two post-master's programs! That is so great! Thank you for the information! I have been strongly considering this program and I appreciate you sharing your experience! Would it be too personal to ask what kind of questions they ask you at the interview? Do they ask about your career goals or about your nursing skills and experiences, like a job interview or ??? Thank you again! :heartbeat

DAP AGPC-NP-C · Jun 25, 2011

I don't recall having to interview, I just remember talking with the coordinators that helped guide me through the admission process. I'm sure it will not be too intense.

CodyRN · Jun 26, 2011

Thank you again! I am starting work on the application process! :)