RT to RN online programs? which is the best

meanmaryjean, DNP, RN · Jan 9, 2015

You understand that there are NO 100% online schools for nursing, right? You still have to complete clinicals.

What state do you live in? Online University | Online Degree Programs | WGU has a prelicensure BSN program in several states.

chriswv33 · Jan 10, 2015

I spoke with excelsior college and it is all online except for the clinical exam at the end of the course that is apparently 3k to do. I am trying to find something that will allow me to stay full time and go to school. My local colleges do not offer the hours I need to attend. I live in WV. Thanks for the feedback

caliotter3 · Jan 10, 2015

It is my understanding that Excelsior College no longer accepts RTs to their program unless that individual holds the RT MOS in the military. Only LPN/LVNs, paramedics, and certain military occupational specialties are acceptable. This info can be found on the EC website.

mrsboots87 · Jan 10, 2015

I would not go by what the person you spoke to tried to sell. Go by state BON requirements. Each state has it's own regulations on required clinical and class time as well as what competences have to be met. Since RT has not had any nursin clinical, I find it very hard to believe that a state BON will approve licensure for a student who only had a clinical exam at the end of the program, but not any actual clinical or even sim lab time. Online can not teach you assessment, or give you IV and foley insertion practice, or trach suctioning practice, or basics care practice. These things are needed to make a minimally safe new grad nurse.

If nursing is what you want, then go for it. But do research about any school who can offer a completely online program with zero actual clinical time to a non nurse student.

meanmaryjean, DNP, RN · Jan 10, 2015

OP- I work as a clinical instructor with the WGU pre-licensure program, and have had student commute from Pittsburgh, Nashville and Michigan to complete our clinical intensives. Several of them were able to maintain full-time employment while doing so. Feel free to PM me if you would like a more detailed explanation.