Help, confused with on-line education

opalmRN · Nov 20, 2004

Hi everyone, I am so confused regarding on-line education, RN-BSN, I have looked into so many, Jacksonville, Excelsior, UDel, Phoenix, College Network and IUP. I need to know which program is the fastest? I have been out of school for 10 years and I am an ADON in a Psych Hospital and I love my work. OUr DON recently quit and I was not eligible to apply due to not having my BSN or MSN but I am the most qualified for the job, I have been with my hosipital for 9 years so this has most definitely given me the big push to complete my degree, I do have some credits. I also have extreme test anxiety so if anyone out there can help me to choose an on-line school or give me any advice I would deeply appreciate it. Happy Thanksgiving to you all. Tuckeroo

Which is the fastest is a rather individual question. Research each one in depth, way your options, your life commitments, and your learning style and the answer should be clear. What is fast/best for one person may not be fast/best for you and vice versa.

As for anxiety and on-line tests, they can cause anxiety just as proctored exams. Many programs with online exams are timed and once you open the exam you must complete it within the given time frame.

There are many students (current and former) on this distance Ed thread from the schools mentioned above, who have a wealth of information to offer. If you post specific questions about a particular program you will most likely receive the answers you are looking for.

You mention time is of the essence but I caution you to investigate your options thoroughly before enrolling. The time you spend now will pay for itself in the long run.

Best of luck to you in your quest.

Opal

Traveler · Nov 20, 2004

I have just finished my 5th class with UoP and have 13 to go. I started at the beginning of May. I should be done by July of 2006. It seems like a long time, but it will be over before I know it. There are 5 non-nursing classes that I have to take as well as the nursing component. I was going to try to double some up, but I want to maintain my GPA and the expense of doing that will be too much. I have had a good experience so far with UoP. In all of my classes I have taken there have been no tests. We have to usually do one project every week. Usually a paper and sometimes a Power Point presentation. There are usually two assignment due each class (each class is five weeks long. You take one class at a time.) with the learning team.

I have learned a lot and it has been interesting. My years of experience and original nursing school make me the nurse that I am. This program is not going to change how I treat my patients, but, like you I have been limited by what I can do because of the lack of BSN. I plan on going on for my MSN/FNP and can't do this without a BSN first. My BSN won't get me any more money (Just 20k in loans!) but I hope that more doors will open for me.

If you want to PM me I would be happy to talk with you about the UoP program.

Ann

akcarmean, LPN · Nov 20, 2004

I agree with opal. You need to find out as much as you can about each program and the weigh the pros and cons. I am starting at AIU in Jan. This was the best program for me right now. Good luck.

Angelia