More Frontier Questions!

Hello again, well I can answer one of my questions. I did ask someone from admissions (not the "committee") if there was preference given to those who got applications in early and if there was a disadvantage to applying right on the deadline, and she said "no", that everyone has the same chances regardless of when they apply. Of course the same chances which are adjusted for application strength... Just wanted to let everyone know! Any other personal information about Frontier and answers would be much appreciated, and I'd love to know if anyone else has applied to the CNEP program for class 131 :)

2. How would you describe the study/coursework/exam process? For example, are there powerpoint lectures complemented by required book readings, and is the exam given on a particular date and time? Are the exams open book? I'm not sure how that all works...

Each course is different but most follow a self-paced weekly module schedule. There are 11 weeks for each semester and generally speaking you can complete the quizzes and exams during a two week period. There are tech support hours that you are recommended to take the exams during. Taking exams outside those times is at your own risk. There are live class discussion sessions either weekly or every other week; attendance is not mandatory and the session is recorded for later viewing. There is a lot of reading involved but that makes sense considering you are learning independently. There is usually 2-3 texts for the class, supplemental article readings, powerpoints/camtasia, course forums, and the weekly lesson. Each class rubric is different, some focus more points on assignments than on exams, others focus on weekly quizzes, and still others will have only a few exams. They can be either open book or proctored closed book exams. The proctor is a camera/computer program that you use in the comfort of your home.

3. This may sound silly, but what and how do we eat on frontier bound? I ask because I am vegan and am just curious. They will feed you well at Frontier Bound. You are able to specify vegan or vegetarian diet. However, if you have a very restrictive diet beyond that (gluten intolerance, food allergies, picky eater, etc.), you are recommended to bring your own foods. There are 3 warm meals per day with snacks available 24/7. The dining area is stocked with water, juice, tea, coffee, yogurt, granola bars, fruit, and other goodies.

4. If I can get some experiences from current or former students, please would you let us know realistically how many hours we can expect to spend reading/studying for the full or part time portion? Ooof. That's a tough question. And it truly depends on your learning ability and background. There has been some material where I spent 30 minutes only completing the assignment, skipping everything else; other times I've spent 10 hours reviewing and researching more complicated subjects. I think the school's average of 12-20 hrs per week is accurate for full-time. I know it's completely doable. I have classmates who have 5 or more children, work, and complete a full course of study. Personally, I work 50 hours a week, have an 8 year old, and complete the full-time program. It's stressful but manageable. I'm inspired and motivated by the excellent group of ladies going through this journey alongside me.

5. I know this has been asked before, but can anyone give input on applying for first midwifery jobs when graduating from an online school (even one with the great reputation of Frontier)? In CT, and with NO L&D experience? I cannot answer this question from personal experience. Frontier is well known in my state and most students have no problem locating midwifery positions. I think the ease of finding a job has more to do with the attitudes regarding and demand for midwifery services. Frontier is a well-recognized university and is involved in many national organizations. On a side note I have heard students at other institutions complain about losing preceptors to Frontier students because Frontier offers incentives to their preceptors, including monetary compensation (I think it's limited to $1200 per student). All schools struggle with placement so it's nice to know that's one less thing standing in the way of your education and perhaps finding your future employer.

I hope this helps! Good luck on your journey, regardless of which school you attend.

Thank you so much for your detailed and thoughtful response! That information is helpful and not always easily obtained from a phone call. I hope to get in to Frontier Bound for November or December, if not I will have to postpone things a little as I am due with my third child in early February. I know the timing of taking classes and having another baby seems a little unusual, but there is often no "best" time to do things, especially when considering family, money, childcare, and general aging. I appreciate the information on your personal perspective and situation going into this program, and I do hope to be accepted as well!