Published Dec 27, 2010
newtress, LPN
431 Posts
Hello to all. Searching and researching for this information has got me going round and round in circles. It is quite obvious and seems imparative that I continue on to get the RN degree or maybe even a BSN. All I would like to know is if there are any folks who would recomend that have gone through a complete online bridge program that is fully accredited and satisfies Cal state board requirements. I have heard that Cal doesn't really recognize Excelsior and I am way uninterested in that College Network route. I did look at the Indiana State University 100%online program, and then further on down I read "through the College Network." Where can someone turn to for all the right ingredients that make up an accepted recognized NLN approved online program?
caliotter3
38,333 Posts
One can do the ISU program without getting involved with The College Network.
Oh I hope that's true caliotter3. I have an associates degree which takes a big chunk off of the general ed and sciences courses. The promo literature states that ISU online program will accept 94 cr hrs of transfer credit, but do require 30 cr hrs through ISU to earn the bachelors degree which doesn't sound unreasonable. I just don't know if it is an acceptable online program and is completely kosher with the Cal state BON and so accredited that you would be a good candidate for hire for RN or BSN. I have an endorsed Cal LPN license but just found out that they don't accept my out of state IV cert and I have to do it all over again (30 hrs) to get the Cal IV cert attached to my license. What a let down. I just happened to cal the state board and glad I know now because I was moving back to NorCal, and now told they won't even hire me without the Cal IV cert on my license. I wonder why that was not stipulated in the endorsement application paperwork originally? I am confident I can do online coursework and seems the only way to get the RN or BSN done but wanted to be certain it is all legit.
NurseCubanitaRN2b, BSN, RN
2,487 Posts
ISU is a good program but they make you challenge courses that you've already completed through your LVN/LPN program which is a waste of time and money. It sets you back a full semester to be tested on stuff you've already been tested on.
Humm, well if that's the case (who wants to be held back with the time/money issue) I wonder if there is another legit route one can do. The local community colleges have gotten rediculous with their requirements for a bridge program and a til the 12th of never wait list. Kind of looks like that may be why a lot of folks just drop a lot of money, and slowly drag through Uni of Phoenix maybe. What's a smart LPN to do?
Western Governors University may be another option for you. It's reasonably priced but then again you are left with the whole taking classes that you've already passed during your LVN/LPN programs. More time and money wasted.
Trapped.
Faeriewand, ASN, RN
1,800 Posts
Well you don't really say but if you are an LVN in CA then you need to do a bridge program at your local community college to get your RN. You don't have to do it that way but its way cheaper and usually they are NLN accredited. After that, go to Cal State Dominguez Hills. Their program is NLN accredited which is what you're asking for. I have not yet been able to find an NLN program that is 100% online except them. I'm still looking. I don't think its a big deal but it looks like that's what some people ask for. I thought CCNE accreditation was good enough but at my CC nursing program they said they would only hire grads from NLN programs. I don't know what the difference is.
Good luck. There are many many programs out there so you don't have to select an expensive one. Just keep looking. :)