are online MSN programs respected?

llg, PhD, RN · Feb 28, 2008

I hate to give this answer, but the truth is "It depends." A lot depends on the quality and reputation of the particular online school and the knowledge/experience of the potential employer.

I have had a couple of negative experiences with a well-known online school (serving as a preceptor for their students) and know of some other negatives because I have friend who has taught for the same school. That knowledge and experience gives me reason to be hesitant in recommending that particular program -- even though I know of two really good nurses who got the MSN's through that school.

Other people have had either positive or negative experiences with online education that will similarly inflence their opinion of it. Like anything else, it can be done well - but it can also be done badly.

Some people -- particularly the faculty and administrators of the more elite academic programs in the country -- would be hesitant to hire a faculty member from any school (online or not) whose reputation was not excellent. So, an online degree can hurt you when applying for some faculty jobs. At the other extreme, some schools are so desparate for faculty members that they will take any warm body with the legal letters after their name. Of course many institutions fall somewhere in between those 2 extremes.

The same is true of hospitals and other practice settings.

If you are looking to get an MSN and would prefer an online option -- I recommend looking at those programs that have a well-established and reputable brick and mortar program as well -- and/or have had a brick and mortar MSN program for several years. A lot of well-respected universities are adding online options -- and those programs give you the advantage of the universities long-standing positive reputation to go along with your degree. Some of their requirements may be a little tougher for you to meet as they are not just in the "online business" of education: they may have maintained some requirements from their traditional programs that are less well-suited to the online format. However, those extra hurdles may well be worth the trouble in the long run if it gives your degree a higher status in the eyes of potential employers.

classicdame, MSN, EdD · Feb 28, 2008

My online degree program was through a state university and is well-respected and backed by a real nursing school. I think some people wonder about Excelsior and the like because they are very close to being a degree-mill, without the faculty support for you. But of course, all learning is self-learning so it depends on what you make of it.

Trauma Columnist · Feb 28, 2008

I did my BSN and MSN both online with University of Phoenix. That said, I had no problem with jobs. However, I also did a post-MSN CNS most of which was online at a local college of nursing. Academia is a world I'm not familiar with, so I defer to llg on this one.

However, I do get job offers all the time from universities here locally that are looking for MSN-prepared RNs to teach.

goingback · Mar 2, 2008

I appreciate the responses. And agree my gut is going toward the programs with strong brick and mortar schools with good reps. Has anyone heard anything about Gonzaga University (Washington), Loyola Universtiy (New Orleans), Norwich University or Western Govenors University?

Also. I am currently a clinical instructor for a university. They are encouraging me to go back for my MSN. I don't want to go through their MSN bacause of location, the drive and timing will really impact my work/family life (I teach at a satellite location). How can I go about asking if they will "respect" an MSN that I earned online?

conniemarie · Mar 4, 2008

Online education is the way of the future. There are good programs and bad programs, just like "on land" schools. Those who have not taken online classes may be the most skeptical as well as the least informed.

Having an online degree has greatly changed my opinion. I will admit, I had reservation but quickly learned in an accredited, organized program more material can be covered and just as effectively as face-to- face classes.

An online student must be self- directed to survive in an online environment. Online learning is not for everyone.

goingback · Mar 5, 2008

What schools did you look into and how did you make your decision on which one you chose?

llg, PhD, RN · Mar 5, 2008

How can I go about asking if they will "respect" an MSN that I earned online?

You simply ask them in a straightforward way. Schedule a meeting with the program director (or your boss) and explain that you are considering going to back to school for an MSN. Say that you are considering online options because they offer some practical benefits for you that you can't ignore. Ask what her opinion is on that plan and whether she has any insight she can share. Don't hesitate to tell her which schools you are considering to see if she has any particular knowledge of those schools.

Just ask and listen to what she has to say. If you know some other senior faculty members whose opinion you trust, ask them as well.

mtdnk · Mar 6, 2008

I graduated from Walden University, MSN-Specialization in Education 4/07 :yeah: . I received tuition reimbursement from my full-time job (hospital) without any problems- they only reimburse accredited schools. I obtained a clinical adjunct position in a BSN program, online curriculum development and teaching position with no problems. I recommend this program highly, but do caution that it is a lot of work,and requires self-discipline. It is a worthy program, and a professional, stimulating learning environment. I feel well-prepared to function as a nurse educator (curriculum development and teaching methods).

msneducator · Mar 11, 2008

I just recieved both my degree three also. No problems at all.

msn2008, MSN, RN · Mar 16, 2008

I will graduate in August, 2008 with my MSN with a major in Nursing Education from Indiana Wesleyan University's online program. If you plan to teach, obtaining a MSN with a major in education is a must! Much is expected of those in nursing education; most of which would not be taught in a MSN program with a specialization in CNS or NP.

This program is doable, although I am currently in my practicum and have had a few 'melt down' moments! All my facilitators have been supportive and always willing to answer our questions when we don't understand an assignment. The program is lock-step, with one course at a time, over 24 months. It is also asynchronous, which is important to me since I work different shifts at a hospital; sometimes I will complete assignments after the 3-11 shift.

Good luck with your decision!

Melissa

elkpark · Mar 16, 2008

I will graduate in August, 2008 with my MSN with a major in Nursing Education from Indiana Wesleyan University's online program. If you plan to teach, obtaining a MSN with a major in education is a must! Much is expected of those in nursing education; most of which would not be taught in a MSN program with a specialization in CNS or NP.
This program is doable, although I am currently in my practicum and have had a few 'melt down' moments! All my facilitators have been supportive and always willing to answer our questions when we don't understand an assignment. The program is lock-step, with one course at a time, over 24 months. It is also asynchronous, which is important to me since I work different shifts at a hospital; sometimes I will complete assignments after the 3-11 shift.
Good luck with your decision!
Melissa

I don't say this in any way to denigrate MSNs in education, but I disagree with you that it is a "must" in order to teach. Schools of nursing strive for a "well-rounded" faculty, with faculty members from a wide variety of backgrounds, including a wide variety of clinical backgrounds. Typically, position postings willl specify that they are looking for a particular variety of NP, or a CNM, psych CNS/NP, etc. (Come to think of it, I'm not sure I've ever seen a posting that specified that the school was looking for someone with an MSN in education.) In my experience in nursing academia, the vast majority of my colleagues (and myself) have had our MSNs in an advanced pratice specialty. I've encountered only a few people who actually had their degree in nursing education. Perhaps that will be different in the future, as more programs with an education concentration produce more graduates ...

A little off-topic; sorry! I didn't mean to hijack the thread.