Online NP Programs

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Specializes in BSN.

I am currently an RN with my BSN. I have been working for a year with pediatric ICU experience. I am starting to research possible NP programs to enroll in. I am considering both FNP and PNP- primary care. I am looking for an online program as I would like to continue to work and not have to move. 

I have researched so many schools for so long that I am starting to get overwhelmed with the amount of reviews on schools. I am also worried about my GPA, who I should ask for references, and just the application process in general. 

If anyone has any input on good online programs, application tips, or advice in general, it would be most appreciated!

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Specializes in Psychiatry.

Walden, Chamberlain, Phoenix and any other school listed as for profit you should avoid like the plague.

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I highly recommend online programs with a strong brick and mortar school attached. I would also look for programs with live online classes. Several friends I have in other programs, their biggest complaint is that they are teaching themselves which is just wrong. As far as FNP vs PNP, think strongly about what you want to do. As a PICU RN, PNP will much better prepare you to work in pediatrics over FNP. If you're open to adults than FNP is fine. You could also consider a hybrid primary/acute pediatrics if you're looking for more flexibility in the pediatric realm. Most programs require you to find your own preceptor, so take an inventory of your network and likelihood that you can secure your own preceptor (can be harder for FNP because you need a wider variety of experiences). If that deters you than I would only look for schools that place you. That all being said, I'll be finishing up an online program in December for dual peds that I really liked. Happy to share the good, the bad, and the ugly if you want to PM me. 

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Specializes in LTC, Med-surg.

I would check if your state board of nursing will accept the transcripts for the online program you are interested in once you have made a "potential" list of programs. For example,  California board of nursing recognizes about a dozen of schools from out-of-state to be eligible to apply for a license as an NP in California and would accept students of those specific out-of-state online program to do the clinical rotations in California. Basically, if the online program that is out-of-state is not on the list, those students can't obtain clinical rotations in California. So, I would look into that for your particular state.

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RNbannanie said:

I highly recommend online programs with a strong brick and mortar school attached. I would also look for programs with live online classes. Several friends I have in other programs, their biggest complaint is that they are teaching themselves which is just wrong. As far as FNP vs PNP, think strongly about what you want to do. As a PICU RN, PNP will much better prepare you to work in pediatrics over FNP. If you're open to adults than FNP is fine. You could also consider a hybrid primary/acute pediatrics if you're looking for more flexibility in the pediatric realm. Most programs require you to find your own preceptor, so take an inventory of your network and likelihood that you can secure your own preceptor (can be harder for FNP because you need a wider variety of experiences). If that deters you than I would only look for schools that place you. That all being said, I'll be finishing up an online program in December for dual peds that I really liked. Happy to share the good, the bad, and the ugly if you want to PM me. 

Interested in your experience at Drexel's NP cert program. Can't personal message you. Please let me know if you're willing to chat @RNbannanie! 

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Anyone willing to share their experience and recommend online NP certification programs? What were classes like? Did you have an exam score cut off, or was it to maintain an overall 3.0 GPA? 

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