NP certificate from Online University??? Good idea/Bad idea?

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I am a recent graduate of a direct entry program in nursing, and currently have my RN and my Master's degree in Nursing. I have been looking into getting my NP Post Master's certificate, but will soon be moving out of the area of many of the schools offering NP programs. What are people's experiences or opinion on getting a NP certificate from somewhere online like Kaplan or University of Pheonix? I will be in the Dartmouth region on NH, so a clinical site could Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, a great teaching hospital where I will get a lot of experience. I am just wondering if the stigma of online schools is true or not? Would it be worth it to get a certficate from them or would it be better to get it through an actual university? I am open to thoughts!!!

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Consider that there are universities with credible names that have online programs (not to suggest that Phoenix or Kaplan are not credible - I just don't know). For example, Drexel University in Philadelphia has online programs and Georgetown is starting an online program in the spring of 2012. Both of these universities are expensive. But there are others out there as well.

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Specializes in CTICU.

Often the transcripts make no mention of on-campus v online classes.

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My school only went to campus once..so pretty much all online. Tests were proctored. I agree with the above poster--it doesn't state anything on your certificate. You are only as good as your clinical experiences. Although I had to find my own preceptors, they were Excellent..and gave great references. So-in my opinion-the online didn't hurt me. Good luck!! :)

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I got mine online through Ball State. I loved it however I do think you would might learn a little more by having a lecture. My online program didn't have lectures (even ones you listen to) whereas I do know other online programs did have lectures. I still feel I know just as much as people that attended a Live program. I have found you learn most of it in clinicals and when you get out anyways. I agree that I would look for a credible program.

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Specializes in Flight. Emergency Room and Management.

University of Cincinnatti has a distance program. Major university for Nurse Practitioner and Medical School.

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