I'm considering MEPN application to the UofA next year. I've been in touch with the advisor, Chris Sogge, for the past 3 years. I have a B.S. in Computer Science and a M.Sc. in Biology from Canada . Chris said that I need a pre-req GPA of 3.7 at least to get into the program; mine is 3.3. Do I stand any chances? Did anyone get in with lower pre-req grades? I'm trying to juggle pre-req taking with a toddler. Thanks so much for your advice!
Got in to Tucson! Can’t wait to meet those of you that got in. Maybe I already met some, if you were a 10:30a
I was at 10:30 also! I was sitting at the first table. There were like 7/8 of us. One girl at our table who didn’t have a partner and had to interview by herself (wasn’t me)....
I was at 10:30 also! I was sitting at the first table. There were like 7/8 of us. One girl at our table who didn’t have a partner and had to interview by herself (wasn’t me)....
I was at the second table to the right, I believe!
So I need some advice guys...I also applied to the concurrent enrollment program with GCC/GCU. It's an AS-MSN bridge program that would take about 3 yrs to complete. I am new to AZ (aka out-of state tuition) and am just wondering if anyone could tell me what the reputation is like for either GCC or GCU. I am debating whether I should accept UA or GCC/GCU since it is significantly cheaper and I would be getting an "MSN".
I initially prioritized UA as my number 1 choice but after finding out that we are not actually awarded an MSN, I have been going back and forth between the two programs. I have never heard of an MS RN before and this has been eating away at me ever since I found out. I guess degree titles doesn't really matter initially as we will all be RNs, but just thinking for the future if I wanted to go into education or informatics, it might be better to go with the MSN.
Anyways, if you guys have any thoughts I'd really appreciate it.
So I need some advice guys...I also applied to the concurrent enrollment program with GCC/GCU. It's an AS-MSN bridge program that would take about 3 yrs to complete. I am new to AZ (aka out-of state tuition) and am just wondering if anyone could tell me what the reputation is like for either GCC or GCU. I am debating whether I should accept UA or GCC/GCU since it is significantly cheaper and I would be getting an "MSN".
I initially prioritized UA as my number 1 choice but after finding out that we are not actually awarded an MSN, I have been going back and forth between the two programs. I have never heard of an MS RN before and this has been eating away at me ever since I found out. I guess degree titles doesn't really matter initially as we will all be RNs, but just thinking for the future if I wanted to go into education or informatics, it might be better to go with the MSN.
Anyways, if you guys have any thoughts I'd really appreciate it.
Thanks!
My 2 cents as I have looked at many other programs and options... it would take you 3 years to get your msn w they option you talked about. Or you can get your MS-RN in 15 months then do an MSN program online while also working full time (and earning money). The UofA BSN-MSN program says its as little as 15 months which I wonder if it’s quicker if you do the MEPN program? Even if it’s not that’s your MSN in 30 months but having your MS-RN after 15 months and being able to work as an RN while obtaining your MSN. For me though I have been looking at UofA’s DNP program which is 2.5 yrs full time.... not sure how long part time.... but then you’d end up w a DNP. As far as teaching, I have heard (not sure how accurate it is) that w the MS-RN you can teach. When looking at BSN programs they all take at least 2 years so I figure in that additional 9 months it would take me to get my BSN I would already be working full time as a nurse and would make up for the difference in the cost of programs by graduating that much sooner. Not sure other people’s thoughts on GCU vs UofA but I’d definitely look at what accreditation’s they hold. I have also heard MEPN I heavy w online classes and is a very intense program.... definitely lots to think about. Good luck!!
So I need some advice guys...I also applied to the concurrent enrollment program with GCC/GCU. It's an AS-MSN bridge program that would take about 3 yrs to complete. I am new to AZ (aka out-of state tuition) and am just wondering if anyone could tell me what the reputation is like for either GCC or GCU. I am debating whether I should accept UA or GCC/GCU since it is significantly cheaper and I would be getting an "MSN".
I initially prioritized UA as my number 1 choice but after finding out that we are not actually awarded an MSN, I have been going back and forth between the two programs. I have never heard of an MS RN before and this has been eating away at me ever since I found out. I guess degree titles doesn't really matter initially as we will all be RNs, but just thinking for the future if I wanted to go into education or informatics, it might be better to go with the MSN.
Anyways, if you guys have any thoughts I'd really appreciate it.
Thanks!
I would say both programs can get you where you want to be. It is more about time vs money than which program is better, in my opinion. GCU has a great reputation in Arizona and I know many nursing students that have come out of a variety of their programs. My cousin is currently in their FNP program and a coworker of mine just quit to do the same program you are referring to. If I did not get accepted at UA, that would have been my next stop.
I agree with the above, for me 15 months vs 3 years means I get a year and 9 months more of work. So while the tuition is less, I will be earning money more quickly and that is important to me because I have a family to support. But your circumstances may be different and you dont need to get back to work, which might make GCU a better fit.
So I need some advice guys...I also applied to the concurrent enrollment program with GCC/GCU. It's an AS-MSN bridge program that would take about 3 yrs to complete. I am new to AZ (aka out-of state tuition) and am just wondering if anyone could tell me what the reputation is like for either GCC or GCU. I am debating whether I should accept UA or GCC/GCU since it is significantly cheaper and I would be getting an "MSN".
I initially prioritized UA as my number 1 choice but after finding out that we are not actually awarded an MSN, I have been going back and forth between the two programs. I have never heard of an MS RN before and this has been eating away at me ever since I found out. I guess degree titles doesn't really matter initially as we will all be RNs, but just thinking for the future if I wanted to go into education or informatics, it might be better to go with the MSN.
Anyways, if you guys have any thoughts I'd really appreciate it.
Thanks!
I think it depends on the amount of debt you'll accumulate versus how fast you can get into the field; my goal is time and money as well but you'll have to weigh the math for yourself. And someone said you can work while going to school if you wanted to continue education later, but I don't know if that's something you'd actually want to do - if your goal is MSN, it might make sense to hit it at one time. And if you want to work outside of AZ, I have heard from current students that since the MS RN isn't common outside of AZ, it's a bit of a challenge to get as recognized. However, I've heard GCU is well respected at least in AZ and I imagine elsewhere.
I however did also hear that you can teach with the MS RN.
I hope you can make a good pros/cons list to figure what's best for you!
Lots of great advice. I also chose the UofAs program because of its length in time, even though it’s more expensive. Getting into the field to make money to provide for my family a year earlier made sense. My personal end goal is to become an NP. So I also need to get into the field to start logging experience hours.
Has anyone met with a counselor to talk about MEPN to DNP? I’m thinking about emailing to set up an advising appointment.
So I need some advice guys...I also applied to the concurrent enrollment program with GCC/GCU. It's an AS-MSN bridge program that would take about 3 yrs to complete. I am new to AZ (aka out-of state tuition) and am just wondering if anyone could tell me what the reputation is like for either GCC or GCU. I am debating whether I should accept UA or GCC/GCU since it is significantly cheaper and I would be getting an "MSN".
I initially prioritized UA as my number 1 choice but after finding out that we are not actually awarded an MSN, I have been going back and forth between the two programs. I have never heard of an MS RN before and this has been eating away at me ever since I found out. I guess degree titles doesn't really matter initially as we will all be RNs, but just thinking for the future if I wanted to go into education or informatics, it might be better to go with the MSN.
Anyways, if you guys have any thoughts I'd really appreciate it.
Thanks!
I’ve been debating on a similar situation as I’ve been considering the ASN-MSN bridge program through PCC as it’s significantly less expensive and would give me the straight MSN at the end. PCC has a reputable program and their graduates easily find jobs with their ADNs in AZ while they continue to work on their MSN online from what I’ve seen. So I don’t have an answer for you as I’m in the same boat but I think both are great program options. I don’t know how it is at GCC but at PCC I already have some of the required courses for the ASN as well in prep for the prerequisites at UA and in my undergrad so it looks like I could complete the ASN portion in 3-4 semesters and be back to work while working on the MSN. Tough call!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts everyone! Yes, there is lots to consider. I will definitely be weighing out the pros/cons over the next few weeks as we have to make our decision by the 21st!
First, congrats to those that got it!! Glad the application/interview process is over!
I have similar concerns about being awarded an MS-RN and not an MSN. Prior to submitting my application I was under the impression we would be awarded an MSN, which would leave the doors open to pursue further education in the future. I have contacted various schools that offer CRNA or DNP programs and some will recognize the MS-RN, and others will not. In terms of getting hired as an RN , I don't think that will be an issue in and around AZ, but am not sure how other areas of the US view this degree. I'm sure experience trumps a minor MS-RN or MSN debacle and you can go anywhere once you have it, but It seems like a BSN is more straightforward. Regardless, if your goal is to be an RN and get working, this program sounds like it is well supported and can definitely get you there. I am just unsure how it is viewed in other parts of the US and there may be some issues with how other colleges view the degree if the goal is to go further, which could limit school options.
If any current or past students could give their feedback/experience with the degree title, or if anyone has anything else to add, it would be much appreciated!
First, congrats to those that got it!! Glad the application/interview process is over!
I have similar concerns about being awarded an MS-RN and not an MSN. Prior to submitting my application I was under the impression we would be awarded an MSN, which would leave the doors open to pursue further education in the future. I have contacted various schools that offer CRNA or DNP programs and some will recognize the MS-RN, and others will not. In terms of getting hired as an RN , I don't think that will be an issue in and around AZ, but am not sure how other areas of the US view this degree. I'm sure experience trumps a minor MS-RN or MSN debacle and you can go anywhere once you have it, but It seems like a BSN is more straightforward. Regardless, if your goal is to be an RN and get working, this program sounds like it is well supported and can definitely get you there. I am just unsure how it is viewed in other parts of the US and there may be some issues with how other colleges view the degree if the goal is to go further, which could limit school options.
If any current or past students could give their feedback/experience with the degree title, or if anyone has anything else to add, it would be much appreciated!
The way it’s been explained to me is the MS-RN is looked at by employers And schools as the same as a BSN degree. You get entry level salary, entry level RN positions etc. with an actual MSN degree you’ll be considered for a slightly higher salary and possibly higher RN positions (leadership, teaching positions, etc). You can also go directly into a DNP program with an MSN degree but if you have an MS-RN degree you’ll need 2-3 years of RN working experience before a DNP program will consider you as an applicant.
Jeanette Elam
81 Posts
I was at 10:30 also! I was sitting at the first table. There were like 7/8 of us. One girl at our table who didn’t have a partner and had to interview by herself (wasn’t me)....