Taking the first step, online ADN to MSN

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I am planning on starting my ADN to MSN online through The College Network (Regis University) very soon. I have set up an appointment with a local preceptor (?) to get general information and to ask about financing/etc. I am glad that I actually took the first step!

My problem is is that I am a little concerned since I don't know what to expect from the program... the program in general, pricing, hours, etc. Can anyone help me out and make me a little less nervous about this? Anyone done this program or similar? Can someone give me a breakdown of the time frame and what to expect?

There are two pathways that you can take through the program. Management or Education. I am still not sure which I would like to do. I know that I don't want to be an instructor, per se, but I really don't know all of the careers that may go along with either the education or management (which i have a better idea of) pathways. Also, is it possible to become a practitioner after obtaining one of these degrees?

Thanks for any help or ideas that anyone may have!

Leia

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Specializes in Hospice,LTC,Pacu,Regulatory,Operating room.

i have a question for you? why are you going through the college network? there are many other ways to approach this situation. i went through excelsior for my adn and bsn and then i am applying to frontier school of nursing for my msn. you dont truly need the college network to do this.it will cost you much more for no reason.

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Just speaking from experience... and this is embarrassing to admit... a friend and I signed up with the college network + regis to do our RN (ADN) to BSN online... right after we graduated in 2005.

We both still have all the binders, some with the cellophane off, but either way, have never taken a test to "clep" out of the prereq's that are required for regis's program. I don't know if it's the format, or the fact that after signing up, I feel like it's a big scam. Regardless, I see that money deducted from my checking account every month and it irritates the heck out of me.

I would have MUCH preferred going to a local university (public), taking the few prereq's that I still need for THEIR program, and actually doing it all in a year, as opposed to going thru college network, being told I need like 10 prereq's, and wasting a whole lot of money and time on something I will never actually finish. I will eventually get my BSN thru a "real" college, probably online, and then go from there.

In a nutshell, I think the College Network program is a great money-maker for THEM, but for people who are wanting to get an online degree all the College Network provides is a condensed text for you to study prior to taking a clep/similar type of test. Then you go for your actual degree through the college (Regis, Indiana State University, etc). Not at all what I was picturing when I signed up.

A $3000 mistake I made... just a little insight. Maybe other people have more positive experiences? :)

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Specializes in LTC, case mgmt, agency.

So are there reputable RN-MSN online colleges and how do they accommodate for clinicals or thesis works if it is a presentation? I am familiar with " The College Network " and would not go that route. I am a new grad from Excelsior College and am trying to continue on for my BSN then MSN and FNP. Just not sure what route to take or where to go towards my ultimate goal.:confused: I have spoken with more " traditional " schools as well, but am keeping options open.

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Hie,

A very dear friend of mine tried College Network for her LPN to RN. She lives in Maryland. She also has boxes and boxes of unopened books and stuff minus a couple of thousands from her checking account. School is apparently not accredited in her State. They wouldnt refund her money, and insisted she paid them thru even they were not accredited.

SHE FELT IT WAS A BIG RIP OFF.

Personally, i am thinking of RN-MSN starting next year. Thinking of taking all online classes but thinking of doing so thru a xul with a brick and mortar building.

Hope this helps, if not too l8.

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Anyone thinking of MSN in Education?

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Specializes in LTC, case mgmt, agency.
Hie,

A very dear friend of mine tried College Network for her LPN to RN. She lives in Maryland. She also has boxes and boxes of unopened books and stuff minus a couple of thousands from her checking account. School is apparently not accredited in her State. They wouldnt refund her money, and insisted she paid them thru even they were not accredited.

SHE FELT IT WAS A BIG RIP OFF.

Personally, i am thinking of RN-MSN starting next year. Thinking of taking all online classes but thinking of doing so thru a xul with a brick and mortar building.

Hope this helps, if not too l8.

Hi Grouchybuthappy!!! How are liking your new nursing career? :D Good to see you still around. :rolleyes: What area are you working in?

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I actually used the College Network guides to test out of three classes I needed for my RN-BSN from Regis. I don't know if I would have used them if I had a lot of pre-reqs to take, but it did work well for me for the few I was missing (IMHO).

I loved the online program from Regis. It took me 2 years going 1/2 time. I just graduated in August :yeah:. I went part time because I was working full time M-F. It was not an easy program just because it was online. It is a well established university and expects a lot in it's classes. The classes are in 8 week increments. You will probably need to spent 15-20 hours a week studying :typing. I am glad I did it. I am a better nurse and see things much differently than when I began the program. If you are up for the challenge, I encourage the Regis program. I am taking a break and then continuing my MSN through them as well.

Hope this helps!:)

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