Looking for an RN-MSN program

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So I graduated from an associate's degree program in May, just licensed yesterday (yay!). I am now interested in a good, online RN-MSN program with a focus on leadership and management.

I am kind of between Walden University and Western Governor's University. From my understanding, WGU is overall cheaper. Anybody had experience with programs?

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Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

CONGRATULATIONS on your accomplishment!

It's wonderful that you are committed to career advancement, but I suggest that you take a bit of time. First, get your practice started and work on achieving full competency. Then move on to a decision about grad school. By that time, you will have a better understanding of the unique world in which nurse leaders 'live'. Right now, it's a very harsh environment with enormous burnout. You may decide that you want to go in a different direction for your advanced practice - like the new specialization field of Quality & Patient Safety. By that time, you would also be able to take advantage of your employer's tuition reimbursement program.

When it comes to grad school - 100% online may be easier, but the end result is a piece of paper with no actual job qualifications. Those programs are most suited for nurses who are already working in a specialty area and simply need the additional MSN credential like the Nurse who has amassed 10 years in management roles. I have a friend in a Chief Nurse Executive role who obtained her MSN from Walden - she told me it was a very positive experience. But she had 20 years of administrative experience and an MBA prior to enrolling.

If you are seeking advanced education as an entry port into a specialty area, you need a program that offers a real (not 'phone it in') practicum. This is where you put all those new ideas to the test and apply those new skills. It also opens career doors through networking because you get a chance to show people how good you are. Once you decide that nursing administration is absolutely what you want to do, you need to start climbing that ladder... career advancement is progressive, newbies start at the bottom, no matter what their credentials.

Best of luck to you! We need young, talented and energetic nurse managers to move our profession ahead.

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