Which online MSN program??

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I have recently started thinking about getting my MSN (probably AGNP). I have a BSN & have been an RN for 10+ years. I'm overwhelmed by the all of the programs! In order to succeed, I'm looking for a 100% online program that is flexible. I will probably need to continue to work full time throughout the program. My husband & I are also thinking about having our first baby! Any thoughts on if I could make that work? Perhaps taking some time off to deliver/maternity leave? Have I lost my mind by even thinking I could do this? I'm currently getting wound care certified through Emory online. They have pre-recorded lectures & I prefer that style of learning. As opposed to just being told to read multiple chapters. Another "speed bump" is that my college GPA was 2.98 :(. 10 years later I'm much more focused & I want to kick myself for not applying myself more! Sorry for the long post. Any suggestions are appreciated!

Specializes in NICU, telemetry.

Working full-time is doable, but I just wanted to say that I'm in my second semester and working full-time has been hard for me. I had no clinicals the first semester, and it was okay, but there were definitely weeks that being part-time would've helped me out. A lot.

I started clinicals this semester, and being full-time has been really hard, especially since I work night shift, so I have to make sure that I have the night before off. I have had to do 2 days a couple of weeks because of unforeseen problems with my preceptor's schedule, and those weeks are really tough. I think come Fall, when I have at least 2 days every week, I will need to be part-time at work to balance it out.

It works out differently for everyone and depends on your specific program, job, and home life...but just food for thought! I feel like bringing a new baby into the mix would be really tough, but I do know a few people who've done it while in school.

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What is your definition of "reputable"? Do you mean by rankings according to U.S. News & World Report?

I suggest calling admissions of various schools and asking about the GPA as well as other variables of your education and experience. Many times they can and will take things on a case-by-case basis.

Also, keep in mind that some of the schools may require you to take the GRE.

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There are tons of NP programs out there that will take your money and accept you. Problems come when you have to find your own preceptors. For many this challenge is harder than the program itself.

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I agree. I am struggling in finding clinicals. If the clinicals are not reserved for the brick and mortar schools they are bought up by the companies that charge a huge fee (about$9,500) to find and arrange your clinicals. I am in Phx., AZ and if you know of any NP willing let me know! it is possible-I work full time, have two disabled kids and have kept a 4.5 GPA. It is hard and at times I think I will go crazy with my schedule and issues with my NP school. In the end it will be worth it all.

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Depending on what state you are in you can always look at attending Chamberlain. They are 100% online but the downside is that you have to find your own clinical preceptors. The good part is that you don't have to worry about completing clinical until the last semester of the program. You take 1 class at a time but the classes are fast paced because they are 8 weeks long. I have been looking into Chamberlain for a while now for FNP but I'm jumping the gun a bit because I don't graduate with my BSN until May but I don't see a need to wait. Good luck on whatever you decide.

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Oh sorry! Chamberlain doesn't have the program you are interested in. They only have FNP.

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