Western Governors University online

featherzRN, MSN · Jun 12, 2014

There are quite a few people 50+ who have gone through WGU (based on the facebook page comments) and have had no problems.. Although everyone is different and it depends on what you need to take, it is completely possible to get through it in a year (two terms). Some people can get through it in one term, others need three - depends on how much time you can put into it! =) It's easy enough to get a free application and see what you need to take at no cost to you except for transcript fees.

As for whether you need it, that all depends on your area. I did it even though it is not required at my job just as a hedge against the future.

scoick · Jun 12, 2014

Hi

I'm 54 and will be starting the RN-BSN August 1st. I feel that with the amount of years I have to work, I want to get my BSN. Too many hospitals require a BSN, and will no longer hire any ADN nurses. Jobs that I could walk into several years ago now require BSN. It all has to do with Magnet Status.

I hope to have it done in a year. Some have completed in 6 months. It all depends how much time you put into it. I plan to join the RN BSN Facebook page, that is where you will get support and tips on the classes. Read what you can on here. Call WGU and talk with one of the Advisors. WGU has a good reputation.

cubsnurs · Jun 18, 2014

The bsn has more to do with the ANA's recommendation to get 80% BSN rate by 2020 bc they feel as though nursing needs to be a "profession" based on education and not a career. Or something like that. I've worked in magnet facilities and they do not require a BSN necessarily to work there. The facility I work at now is pushing bsn and was claiming "it's a magnet requirement" with everything... All the way down to basic washing your hands. Myself and a few others who have been employed at other facilities called bluff on their philosophy of "bsn is magnet requirement" and they've finally come out with the statement that it's an ANA thing rather than a magnet.

MyCall2Nsg · Jun 18, 2014

This might be off the subject a bit, but as I read these threads I am so motivated to get started and I feel a pull towards WGU.

Earning an advance degree in nursing is a personal as well as a career goal. I believe that with the new trends in healthcare it has become critically important to invest in continuing education especially in seeking additional degrees. There are added benefits such as career growth and better positions in the workforce.

I have been an RN for over 20 yrs and have always desired completing my BSN. Today I am motivated to do just that and more. I love nursing and regard it as my calling in life. I pray that I will continue to touch lives through my contribution to the nursing profession.