LoneStar1908

Ray, Yes, it is the same degree. I was in the first cohort of students completing the new curriculum. There were a ton of changes and obstacles my classmates and I had to deal with. However, WGU was quick to make changes and restructure the classes based on student feedback. I needed an MSN to move into a management position. I started WGU with two other coworkers, and I was the only one to graduate. The program is excellent for independent learners, and the bonus is there are NO discussion questions. Plus, you can progress as fast as you can to complete the course requirements. I highly recommend the program.

Wilkes University will start an online PHD in nursing soon. Nova Southeastern University also has online DNP and PHD programs. Touro University has received positive reviews on Allnurses from former students. It may be worth it to check these programs out too.

j9eRN, Foggnm and RNfor918 both gave excellent advice about the boarding process. The link below has the pay scales for the Cleveland VA. Scroll down until you find the correct location and scale for your position. Welcome to the VA!!! https://www.va.gov/OHRM/Pay/2017/LPS/538_554.pdf

I'm starting the Psychiatric DNP program in January. How is the program so far? Any advice or suggestions is appreciated.

I just saw on Walden University's website that they will offer a Psychiatric NP program starting in May. The school is expensive and for-profit, but it does offer another option. I think they may be the first for-profit school with this NP track in an MSN program.

The study guide offered by the ANCC is worth the money. It is updated for the current test, and covers everything you need to know for the exam. It is worth the money. Plus, you can earn over 20 CUs by paying a $45 test fee, and taking a test online. This option is available when you purchase the book from the ANCC. I had the older version of the test book, but took the new test. My co-worker had the newer version of the book. Topics that I had problems with were covered in the newer book. I also brought other study guides for the exam, but the ANCC's book was the best. Buy the ANCC book, study and soon you'll have extra letters behind your name :)

Has the deadline passed yet? I thought it was in July, but I could be wrong. UTA has a great NP program in psych. The director of the program is awesome and very approachable. I didn't apply to the program because I wanted an DNP program. Now I wish I did, the DNP program that I'm starting in the fall will take 4 years. I know waiting for admission is stressful, but you've selected a reputable program. Please check to see the deadline for Fall applications before you start worry. They may wait until all applications are received before they start to review. Best of luck to you, and please post when you get accepted :)

I agree with Tasha, if the costs per credit hour are close I would get the MSN. Even if you decide to go the NP route or need more credentials you could obtain a post-master certificate.

I applied to an BSN-DNP program at Rush University, and was accepted. Rush requires applicants apply via NursingCAS, my WGU MSN classes were not included in my GPA, NursingCAS calculated them as pass or fail. The only GPA calculation I had was for my undergrad classes. Rush is allowing me to transfer 2 of the classes I completed at WGU.

I am a current MSN student in Texas. Today I received a letter form WGU with over 20 referral cards for WGU Texas. Each card has the same referral code - WAV2, which will waive the $65 application fee for those applying to WGU Texas for the first time. I am not sure if it will work for students from other states, but it's worth the try :)

Hi guys, We will all be classmates :) I was accepted to the psychiatric tract. I can't wait to start this fall!!!

Hello Tom, Good luck on your interview. I applied for the psychiatric tract on the 2/3/2014 deadline. I hope things go well for you today

You will only need the 38 credits for the MSN :)

Hi Malenurse, Have you thought about staying at UTA for the FNP? The online FNP academic partnership program just started. The minimum GPA without a GRE is 3.0. Plus being an alumni could only help your chances. The program is only open to Texas residents, and they respond quickly to requests. Please check it out. Best of luck to you:smug:

I started the MSN program at WGU in September. I also wanted complete a post masters cert. in psych. Now, I wish I would've just started a masters program to become a psychiatric NP. The MSN program changed in September, and is still having "growing pains." The WGU route may save you money if you plan well. However, some BSN to DNP programs only take three years to complete. The University of South Alabama has the full curriculum posted on their website. Please take a look and compare each track. The first year of the program does not require clinicals. This would allow you time to find a preceptor and clinical sites. WGU is a good school. But, you should explore all of your options