PLU ELMSN: good deal?

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I recently was accepted into Pacific Lutheran University's ELMSN program. My end goal is to be an FNP, and they've made it pretty clear that although it's possible to switch to their FNP track after your first year, it's in no way guaranteed. I want to figure out how exclusive post-master's FNP programs are in general, in case PLU won't let me make the switch. I also want to figure out what percentage of people applying to switch are actually granted permission to do so; is this option really only available theoretically, and advertised to draw students to the program? More generally, has anyone graduated from this program, or known someone who has? Is the master's and cert. you gain worth the expense? Would I be better off waiting until next year and hoping I get in somewhere more ideal? I'm having some real trouble making up my mind. Does anyone have a good, solid idea of what kind of jobs the program would set me up for, in the event that I can't switch?

Any advice is well appreciated. None of the NPs I know have had much to say about it. To me it seems like at the very least it'll give me an RN and an MSN and then a post-grad cert. for FNP would be what... a year away?

Help?

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Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.

Moved to the post-grad forum (vs. the GN forum) to encourage responses.

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seattlejoe-

I too want to be an FNP and was accepted to PLU's ELMSN program this year. I know someone currently in the program, but she has not graduated yet. She mentioned that they stress that the FNP is not guaranteed because someone misunderstood this point and threw a huge fit a couple years ago.

Therefore, they have started emphasizing this point. It is not meant to deter you from wanting to be a FNP by any means, they just want to make sure that you understand that it is not guaranteed through their school.

In fact, in early February they asked me to "clarify my goals statement" to indicate how being an "Advanced Generalist" would be helpful and contribute to my career goals. (i.e. ensuring that I'd be happy if I didn't get into the FNP track once in the ELMSN program). I guess I mentioned FNP in my goals statement. However, I responded and was accepted two weeks later.

My friend in the program mentioned that while the FNP track is competitive (sorry-I don't know the percentage), if you do fairly well in your first year--you should be able to be a FNP. Also, I do know that Post-Master's NP programs are fairly competitive (as all nursing programs are).

She actually wanted to be an Advanced Generalist and loved that PLU gives you a broad exposure to lots of different specialties. A lot of entry-level programs do not do this to the same degree.

While I love PLU's program, Seattle U was and is my first choice--I'm starting at their APNI FNP track in June. I chose Seattle U because I like their program philosophy a little bit better and I want to stay in the Seattle city limits.

I hope this helped! My friend absolutely loves PLU's ELMSN program.

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averykm,

I am in the same situation as you, well mostly. I have gotten acceptance into the ELMSN program, however I am awaiting a decision from Seattle U. The committee at PLU also sent me an e-mail asking me to clarify my goals statement too. I have gotten to speak with several students who are currently in the ELMSN program and they all love it. They say the time flies by quickly. With regard to the FNP track, it is important to achieve high academic success during the RN portion of the program. However, given that PLU exposes students to such a variety of nursing roles in the profession I am not holding steadfast to FNP any longer. I have pretty much made up my mind that PLU is the best fit for me. Seattle U is an awesome institution and the fact that it's in the city is even better, but in speaking with the current students we wouldn't be able to enjoy it. Plus I have to take into account that the cost of living is much more expensive than the Tacoma area. Best of luck to you :) Big hugs!

Eva

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PistachioLover-

I'm glad you found the best fit in PLU. It's such a tough decision and it's great when you realize what's best.

PLU's big positive for me was that they give you exposure to a wide variety of areas--but Seattle U's program does allow you exposure to different patient populations. However, in my search, I immediately connected with Seattle University's faculty and philosophy and so Seattle U ultimately won out.

My decision was made easier by the fact that I was born and raised in the Seattle city limits--so even though Tacoma is not all that far away, Seattle is really home.

Best Wishes,

Katie

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that's so funny about someone throwing a fit due to confusion...i also had this experience of them writing to ask me to clarify my goals because i had mentioned becoming a FNP in my statement! sounds like i wasn't the only one :)

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What grades/GRE scores/experience did you guys have? I am interested in applying to both PLU and Seattle.

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A few of the 20 member cohort members had some prior HC experience. It experience wasn't anything super significant, but rather like an exposure. Grades were pretty high. I believe the average of undergrad GPA was something around 3.7-3.8 ish. The GRE scores were quite broad. I recall one member that had upwards of 1400 while another had just slightly above the minimum to qualify for consideration. I'd suggest to just apply and really focus on your essay/ statement. Your ability to articulate your thoughts concisely and succinctly carries enormous importance with the admission committee at PLU.

Best of Luck!!

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