heathermarie7

I recently graduated from University of Cincinnati's distance learning program. I was previously an RN for 4 years before applying for their FNP program. The price for the program was reasonable, but the program offers little to no help on finding clinical practice. I was lucky to have connections and find preceptors, but my paperwork was often last minute and one of my clinicals in particular was pretty useless, and only filled the needed number of hours. If you are a motivated person and are able to set aside time for your studies and can complete tasks on your own, I would recommend a distance learning program. If you do not have much clinical experience as an RN or other health professional, a brick and mortar school might be better for you, because your clinical experiences are more closely monitored. I have mixed feelings whether the program prepared me for my boards. I am a fairly decent test taker to begin with, and upon graduation, I studied from several sources ( Leik's, Fitzgerald, and online practice questions). I did pass my AANP the first time, but part of that was from having previous RN experience. I had several professors whom I felt connected with ( even through the internet), but for the most part, I have little to no sentimental attachment to the university or the program. Good luck with whichever school you decide to attend, but make sure to get clinical sites locked down as soon as you can!!!

I used Fitzgeralds review book for practice questions for specific sections during school, then also revisited it once I was taking my boards. I though it was very helpful because it gets you used to answering the questions and thinking about the question set up. I personally like the electronic versions of things, because you can download the Kindle app on your iPhone, ipad, whatever, and not have to actually carry the book with you. You can also highlight the electronic versions, and search within the book. It was very helpful with downtime during clinicals.

I currently attend the U of C online FNP program. The flexibility of the online program has been great, the only negative feedback I have is preceptor placement. I had a difficult time securing preceptors and the school was not helpful whatsoever in that area. I had to cold call TONS of offices to get preceptors. From what I hear though, this can be common in finding preceptors, so once you are accepted, start your search early. As far as work is concerned, I worked full time for the whole first year. When I had started my clinicals, I had just given birth to my first son so I did not return to work. The clinical hours can be as flexible as your preceptor is willing. I treated clinicals last semester as a full time job and finished the entire required hours in 2 months. Good luck with your applications and whatever you decide to do!

I am on track for graduation from UC FNP program this August. Pretty much the first year was all coursework and so I did work full time. Once your clinical s start up, I would consider dropping your hours to part time or per diem. Congrats on getting in and good luck!! ( ps look for preceptors as early as possible, that's one of most stressful parts of the program)