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

Texas Tech offers has a midwifey program that is web based. It's a great school with lots of support.

RN forever is telling the truth. The new program is horrible. I just want to finish this semester, and start another program. The information in the course of study is not covered on the objective test. This makes progressing through the program difficult, because most of the classes have an objective exam. Again, please stay away from the new MSN program at WGU.

That sounds like GREAT news to me. My EWB will not open until Monday, but it does give me hope. I talked with multiple people at WGU about doing the old program, and was told the new program was mandatory starting in September. I'm doing the leadership tract, and I'm worried about being in the 1st group taking the new classes. I also asked about several classes at the end of the MSN program. Those classes were not described in detail like the 1st half of the program. I know many people wanted to take the 3 Ps, but the old MSN program will meet my needs perfectly. Either way we're going to be classmates, so keep in touch

Yes, the program has completely changed. Like Skoolrn said, ALL of the classes are new. The addition of the 3 P's and practicum wouldn't be an issue if they might be useful in an NP program. But they way the courses are titled and the amount of credits earned, may cause an issue with transfer. I appreciate the feedback.

I'm planning on starting my MSN in September. The new MSN curriculum is now posted online on the college's website. It appears that the entire program has changed and is now 38 credits. I wanted to complete the program in a year, but that doesn't seem possible with the changes. I am also worried about possible issues with the new classes and format. I was excited about WGU because of the low cost, and competency based learning. Now I'm wondering if a more structured program might be better. Anyone plan on starting soon, or have any thoughts about the changes? Thanks :)

I'm another former flight attendant turned RN. I flew before, during and after nursing school. I was able to do both for five years. As I got older I started to worry more about retirement, getting older, settling down etc. I left flying to work at the local VA. I can honestly say that it was one of the worst mistakes of my life. I miss flying and the flexibility I had. I flew for an airline with great work rules and pay. I'm considering reapplying when they are hiring again, but I will have to start at the bottom of the sonority list. The lifestyle may not be for everyone, but was perfect for me. The others are right the hours are long, the pay is very low and the passengers are like patients and needy children. But, if you have savings and the opportunity to fly, it's definitely worth a try.

There is a business that offers IV cert. classes in the Houston area. You can Goggle them their name is Professional Heath Care Training Services (PHES) or you can reach them at 877-313-7437.

I "think" it is 26.68 base per hour for a GN. I can't remember for sure, but it is close. I interviewed at LBJ and the rate should be the same minus the med center stipend, if one is offered at Ben Taub.

I'm a new grad too. I just applied to the hospital I wanted to work at and got the job. Best of luck to you :)

Well, I was a mother with a lot of support when I was initiated into my sorority. I was 23 and the oldest member on my line, I was not in nursing school at the time. It was very hard work and very expensive. If you wish to join a divine nine sorority, which I think you may......work on your GPA and be active on campus BEFORE intake. Since nursing is demanding you will have to work harder to have the GPA you need. Again, the commitment is expensive. I have read your prior posts on how hard you worked to get into school. It will be stressful, but it can be done :)