Question about MSN degree

dorimar, BSN, RN · Feb 3, 2009

I just graduated from University of Phoenix with my MSN/ED (healthcare education). My entire program was online. I learned so much! The assignments taught me a great deal. However, it was a very stressful two years for me and my family. When I wasn't at work, I was online or writing papers and PPs. I had a project every week. We had to answer two discussion questions weekly and respond substantially to other discussions at least 2 responses 4 days/week, plus we had a project weekly. I was not a fan of learning teams because I don't like having to rely on others (I'm kind of perfectionist) However, I think you will find learning teams in any program. The online format was great for me because I could work on my own time and did not have to sit in class four hours /week. One thing I regret about all of my classes being online is that I did not get any public speaking experience which would have been an asset with my education focus. Another thing i just found out is that University of Phoenix will not hire a Universtiy of Phoenix graduate for at least 2 years after graduation.

ldchargern · Feb 3, 2009

Thanks for the information.

Burnenup · Feb 3, 2009

Im going Walden University and it seems fine so far!

jpRN84, BSN, RN · Feb 4, 2009

Thanks for the information and congratulations on your graduation!

I just graduated from University of Phoenix with my MSN/ED (healthcare education). My entire program was online. I learned so much! The assignments taught me a great deal. However, it was a very stressful two years for me and my family. When I wasn't at work, I was online or writing papers and PPs. I had a project every week. We had to answer two discussion questions weekly and respond substantially to other discussions at least 2 responses 4 days/week, plus we had a project weekly. I was not a fan of learning teams because I don't like having to rely on others (I'm kind of perfectionist) However, I think you will find learning teams in any program. The online format was great for me because I could work on my own time and did not have to sit in class four hours /week. One thing I regret about all of my classes being online is that I did not get any public speaking experience which would have been an asset with my education focus. Another thing i just found out is that University of Phoenix will not hire a Universtiy of Phoenix graduate for at least 2 years after graduation.

ldchargern · Feb 4, 2009

This is the program that I was looking into. I spoke with an Admissions Counselor today and it seems like a great program. How many classes have you taken so far? Are you taking 2 classes at a time?

ldchargern · Feb 4, 2009

Im going Walden University and it seems fine so far!

My previous reply was for the Walden University school.

bodhisattvya · Feb 4, 2009

Does anyone have any experience with Excelsior's Clinical Systems Mgmt. program? It sounds intriguing. I would love to hear about the program from someone currently enrolled.

classicdame, MSN, EdD · Feb 6, 2009

may I recommend a state university? So many have online programs now that there is no need to pay extra for out-of-state programs. That is what I did. Although the program was totally online, I still had the benefit of picking up the phone or even meeting an instructor to discuss something. The school was 50 miles away. I have an MSN in Education and thought the online program was a great teaching strategy.

BigBadInstructor · Feb 6, 2009

"I was wondering if colleges and companies look at where the degree comes from and make their decision based on that. Does any educator suggest any better programs?"

Colleges do look at where the degree comes from, and realize that when you move from college to college, your degree is what they look at, and hire you based upon that. I have a colleague who is pretty much stuck at their present position, because they have a PhD from a "mail deposit" university and no one will hire based upon that.

As to whether you want on-campus or distance, it really depends upon what is available, and how you best learn. In my state there is no in-state Master's degree for nurse education, so I was forced to look out of state, which means distance. My colleagues have gone to Gonzaga, an excellent university, and did distance learning, but go on campus once a month. I went to Nebraska Methodist College, an excellent college, and did distance education, and was on campus once a year. Another colleague goes to University of Wyoming, and it is total distance education, but the tuition is all in-state prices.

You need to investigate, see the advantages and disadvantages to each college you are considering. Consider tuition, scholarships available, GRE requirements, are you required to be on campus at any time, can you talk with the Dean at any time, how friendly are they, and does the college have a quality reputation.

I would caution about Excelsior College. I continue to hear bad rumblings about the college, and State Board of Nursing responses. I know that there are several states that do not accept an RN degree from Excelsior, including California and Arizona. I have not heard anything about their Master's degree, but wonder if you would be tainted due to the RN problems. Look at the reputation, and if it sounds too good, it probably is, and run. You will be spending a lot of money, don't regret it. Good luck!

Whispera, MSN, RN · Feb 6, 2009

Make sure whatever program you choose is accredited.