robinatkins

Hello Everyone, Perhaps there are a few issues with the semantics in the current discussion about online programs. I work FT as an oncology nurse in a busy outpatient treatment center. I'm 53 years old and haven't been in school since college in 1985. "Easy" for me means the program fits into my life schedule, versus the other way around. I am in my fourth course for the BSN FlexPath program at Capella University, and am going on my second year in this program. I'm less interested in saving money and most interested in learning, and I feel the course material and expected research efforts challenge me to do just that. As with any form of education, you get out of it what you put into it. Because of the intensive research required to write solid papers I am a more informed nurse, not just about nursing topics but about world topics. The online library is expansive, and as one person already commented, the learner support programs built into the program and into the software are amazing. Capella's nursing programs are fully accredited by the CCNE--Center for Collegiate Nursing Education. https://directory.ccnecommunity.org/reports/rptAccreditedPrograms_New.asp?state=MN&sFullName=Minnesota Here is the entry for Capella's nursing programs on the CCNE website for reference as well. Capella University Nursing Department 225 South 6th Street, 9th Floor Minneapolis, MN Link to Website Chief Nurse Administrator: Christy P. Davidson, DNP, RNC Title: Associate Dean, School of Nursing and Health Sciences Email: [email protected] Phone: Fax: 612-977-5060 Initial Accreditation Date: Most Recent Accreditation Date: Accreditation Term Expires: Last On-Site Evaluation: Next On-Site Evaluation: Baccalaureate April 4, 2011 April 18, 2016 December 31, 2026 April 2016 Spring 2026 Master's April 4, 2011 April 18, 2016 December 31, 2026 April 2016 Spring 2026 Doctor of Nursing Practice April 11, 2012 April 18, 2016 December 31, 2026 April 2016 Spring 2026 I'd be remiss if I didn't include a very personal reason this program appeals to me (by no means a deal breaker, but still extremely satisfying) is that I do not have to depend on a group or other individuals to do their part in completing a progect--I get to work alone. It's just me and the material. The tutors and faculty persons are helpful and available. Again, if you do not use the resources provided, including the human resources, you are missing important opportunities to receive feedback and direction.

I've been a nurse for 32 years and work FT in outpatient oncology. I had been considering going back to school for 5 years, but my parents fell ill, then my father passed away. My mother is well now, and I've used money she gifted to me to pay for my education in my father's memory...he would have been very happy with this decision. I investigated Capella because my employer had formed a contract with the university and as such tuition discounts were available. On a whim, I called Capella and spoke with Samantha Buchholz, an enrollment counselor and advocate. The time Samantha spent with me helped me formulate a distinct vision of where I wanted to be in 10 years and how to get there. My educational goal is to obtain a Ph.D. and write for publication in the field of professional nursing development. I am my coming to the end of my 3rd semester in the FlexPath BSN program. At first, I was anxious and disappointed that I was not speeding right along making use of the financial savings opportunity that the FlexPath program offers. But now, I realize that the value of the program for me lies more in the ability to work at my own pace, in some degree to choose the order in which I complete the course work, and to work in solitude. (I must admit I'm not the best team player and have little tolerance for slackers). Some weeks I've very good at managing my time and get lots done. Other weeks I'm not. Being a "paper" person, I've been slow to master the online learning skills and do print a great deal of my research articles (I have three file cabinets now!). And yes, FlexPath course work is entirely research, reading and writing papers, but I'm learning SO much, and I'm having FUN! To that point, my goal is to learn well, not to save money. As a result I currently have a 4.0 GPA, but I've worked hard to achieve it. I do believe, however, if I worked part time instead of full time, I would save money in the end simply because I would have more time to devote to the course work. The University does require evidence of weekly engagement in the course work in the FlexPath programs, so your scholarly efforts are important...the school, the coaches, tutors and faculty members DO care if you're "attending" in a meaningful way. If you do decide to attend, be sure to take advantage of your time in the Orientation course. Follow all the suggestions, and then some. You will be so glad you did. The online course room, library and research center, and student support services are FANTASTIC! My Academic Advisor/Coach is super as well. Take the time to build your relationships with your Coach and your Tutors. It will help you stay connected. Right now, my biggest issue is with the fact that FlexPath learners are not eligible for the Dean's list nor are we eligible for Capella scholarships. I'm not clear on the reasons for either of these, but at some point will ask.