In-state v. online NP program

Published

I'm just started an NP program at a state university. = low tuition if you're a resident of the state, like $500 per credit hour. Instruction is done via a televised system, so it's similar to being online anyway. Here's my question: Should I perhaps consider an online program? Is there some major advantage/disadvantage to taking an online program, since I'm just showing up and watching a television screen for my class anyway? IF I can get more bang for my buck I'd like to do so! Thanks to anyone with advice, opinions to offer.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I have been doing a lot of reading on this myself. I think it boils down to how well you learn on your own and how motivated you are. It seems that most of the online programs I've read about have a lot of reading, discussion groups (web chats, etc) and writing assignments. In exchange for face to face interaction, you get flexibility (and the ability to "go to class" in your PJ's). The clinicals are probably going to pretty much be the same. After all, doing a clinical in a PCP's office would be the same whether you are in an online or on site program. Also, many of the on site programs' classes are partially or entirely on line anyway. I have almost convinced myself to apply to an on-line program, but am still looking into options. I have heard of a couple that have "blocks" or levels instead of semesters/quarters. You have "x" amount of time to complete the classes in level one. After you complete level one, you move to level two and "x" amount of time to complete those classes, etc. The school helps you arrange clinicals near where you live. You have to go to the actual school twice (I think), once for a 7 day "orientation" and another 2 weeks for clinical competency testing before starting your clinicals.

I think there are a lot of people who put down the online programs as being inferior, but everyone has their opinions. For a lot of people, I don;t know if the basis of their opinion is from personal experience or from "brainwashing" from university instructors. If the online program is accredited, it must have met at least the minimum standards that university progrmas have to meet.

Good luck with whatever you decide.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

What programs have you looked into and what are the costs like? I am just starting my researching into going the online route for NP school and would like some ideas of what is out there.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Thank you for the link Zenman. By the way, I'm curious what you are doing "all over asia?!"

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Thank you for the link Zenman. By the way, I'm curious what you are doing "all over asia?!"

I'm a school nurse at an American International School in Dhaka. I travel all over Asia in my off time...someone has to do it!:)

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Just a word to the wise: Many programs are not extremely helpful in arranging clinical time for you. Most expect you to do that and will "assist" by making sure the proper paperwork is filled out, or by giving you contacts of others in your area who have completed clinicals. So, ask some questions- many on line students are very happy with the instruction, but become frustrated by attempting to find clinical sites. I've found no program that tells me that it is difficult to get clinical sites, but have found a lot of former students and current students.

I'm all for on line education myself, but want people to make informed choices!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion