On-line Masters Degree program?? Any good?

Epona · Mar 9, 2007

Hi everyone!! I am on Spring Break right now and need some good advice from my nursing buddies on the board! :icon_hug:

Ok.. I am in a private BSN program. It is not at all well organized and the students are having to teach themselves just about everything. When we go to the professors for assistance many times they shrug us off and say "I am busy now, come back letter," OR "I do not have time for your 20 questions." Several students have written the Dean. Also, the school has the worst NCLEX pass rate in the state and is on the verge of losing accreditation. Plus.. it is costly a small FORTUNE to go there... around $9,000 a semester. That is ONLY tuition and books. :eek: I went there as at the time, it was the right decision for me and there were not many other options. Right now I have all A's and B's. I study all the time, otherwise I'd be failing. There are only about 12 students who are currently passing out of about 50. Not good.

Well... a hospital based program with a great reputation has just opened up a site near my home. It is a long distance satelite program. It is being sponsored by the initial hospital program, about 60 miles from me, and is also being sponsored by another university who has a great RN program. I have called the hopsital program and have spoken to an admissions advisor. It will cost me around $12,000 for the ENTIRE 22 month program. The school has a 100 percent pass rate on the NCLEX. They are one of the best in the state. Admissions told me with my previous background (I already have one degree, the BSN would have been my second)... that if I do well on the NET I an IN. My only concern is that it is teleconferenced. Admissions told me some nursing instructors would be there, but obviously not as many as at the main school. That is my only concern.

I have spoken to my husband and family and I am thinking I may go there instead. I am worried about oweing around $60,000 when all is said and done for the BSN program. That is the BIG issue. Plus the other factors mentioned.

Here is the main question... if I go to the hospital program... I will have a diploma when I get out. With my 1st degree and being an RN, can I go on-line and do a Master's program?? How good are they on-line?? One of the reasons I wanted the BSN was to go on for the Masters. If I get the diploma, can I do the Masters on-line?? How reputable are the programs and how do employers look at that if you get a Masters degree in Nursing ON-LINE??

I know this was long, but THANK YOU for any advice.... best to u... E :wavey: