University of Phoenix

Buyer beware, BSN · Aug 3, 2016

Thank you for this information. Why is graduation rate so low? Is it because it's so expensive? I'm sorry you are in debt. I hope things get better for you. This is a mess indeed.

No Tonkabuck, I am not in debt. The correlation between expensive and low grad rate is erroneous. You see if that were the case, Harvard and Yale which are very expensive would have low grad rates. But instead they have grad and retentiion rates of > 95%.

Price is very often though not reflective of quality but only as it relates to many over paid school administrators. For-profits today are a business concept and a falling shape-shifting one at that.

But thanks for asking about if I'm in debt. My honest answer to that question is: no but I don't want you to be in the kind of debt these schools require that have absolutely ruined so many lives before they even started. Good luck. Again, be careful. These people although sounding kind hearted and concerned are not your friends.

HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD · Aug 3, 2016

Solid advice from PPs.

Just wanted to add some encouragement about choosing a traditional school. Most of them have online options for MSN these days. Don't fear the GRE. I actually had to tackle that beast 3 times. Srsly. It expires after 5 years & I changed MSN programs (#2 do-over). Then, I had to take it again for doctoral admission. But it's actually not that fearsome, especially if you use one of the GRE-prep programs that are out there. Nursing grad school admission criteria usually involves a balanced approach & GRE is only one of several criteria that are considered. My MSN program placed a lot more weight on the GRE Verbal score than on the other sections.

I would also urge you to choose a grad program that includes a practicum/residency. This makes all the difference. It provides you an opportunity to actually apply all that new knowledge & skills you have gained - and is the first rung on a new professional network for advanced career opportunities. I would also encourage you to just bit the bullet and go with a program that includes thesis instead of the much softer "capstone" option. The learning outcomes from thesis are unique and tremendously valuable - AND you'll end up with a publishable document that will launch your professional CV.

Another consideration - HRSA funds to support "faculty development" have been granted to many nursing schools. These funds are being used to provide financial aid to MSN students. You may want to investigate this in your area.

Best of luck to you. Keep us posted on your progress.

Tonkabuck · Aug 3, 2016

Congrats to you on your accomplishment and determination!! Thank you for the words of advice! I will take heed to them!! I have some prep materials for the GRE and will utilize them. I will keep you all posted for sure! Again, thank you!!

Tonkabuck · Aug 4, 2016

Yes, I do not want or need that kind of debt. I can get a quality education for a lot less money!! I've read a lot bed reviews about UoP...

Buyer beware, BSN · Aug 4, 2016

Yes, I do not want or need that kind of debt. I can get a quality education for a lot less money!! I've read a lot bed reviews about UoP...

Tonabuck: I am so happy to hear you are shooting for excellence. Good luck to you in all things in life.

Buyer beware, BSN · Aug 6, 2016

Danger! Danger! Danger! UoP is not doing well financially. They have a long history of tangling with the regulatory agencies of the government. They recently recinded their arbitration requirement to lure in more unsuspecting students. Go to (collegescorecard.ed.gov). They have no stats on the online component of school but if you look at their ground schools that will tell you they have HORRIBLE grad and retention rates. For instance the school in Tampa, Fl., has a grad rate of 3%. The only school worse is EDMC run South University. But both are beyond poor. UoP used to be OK but just OK a long time ago. Look at other online schools. Get guidance and not from the boiler room car salesmen at UoP. But it's your choice, I guess.