What to Expect from an Online RN to BSN Program

One of the most common questions for new RN-BSN online  students,  is how many hours a week will the  classes take of my time.  A good rule of thumb is to allow an average of 5-6  hours a week for the course work.  With an online program, the time spent will decrease somewhat once acclimated to the technology.   

Most students adjust their schedules to accommodate the hours required to successfully complete an RN-BSN online program.  Adjustments can occur in various ways:  decreased work hours, family time, social time, or time spent watching television.  Many students have supportive family and friends to help with household chores to accommodate the 5-6 hours per week the student will need for class work. The key is to build a support network to help adjust your schedule to allow for class time/work of about 5-6 hours per week.  Your success with school will be related to how well you can keep a schedule of time spent on course work.  Be sure to set aside at least one hour- five days a week and schedule that time on your calendar just as if it was an appoint to keep.

For more information go to: http://www.sxu.edu/academics/colleges_schools/son/online-programs.asp

Dr. Maggie

Transfer to another RN to BSN Online program

Have you thought after a class or two that you might be in the wrong RN-BSN Online program? Sometimes it takes 3 or 4 classes to figure out that the fit between your needs and the RN-BSN online program, which you are in, does not fit together for whatever reason.  It is important to figure out if you are in the wrong program sooner than later as most places will only accept 2 classes to transfer into their RN-BSN Online program.

Some of the most common reasons I have heard for transferring programs are: faculty inaccessibility and unresponsiveness, too much busy work, and not learning anything of value for the immediate workplace. Don’t stay trapped in a program that is not right for your needs. Find an RN-BSN Online program which you can take one class at a time and allows you some “recharge” time, yet still complete the program in a timely manner.

For more information go to:

http://sxu.edu/academics/colleges_schools/son/under_programs.asp

Dr. Maggie 

Selecting an RN-BSN Online program

Selecting an online RN-BSN program, is more than looking at the cost and time for completion.  As you research RN-BSN online programs, look at the program’s values and make sure there is a good fit with your own values.  Decide if you want to go straight through a program with no breaks whatsoever, or have small short breaks to recharge, but still finish your BSN degree in a year or two.  Selecting an RN- BSN online program should also include a look at the program’s preparation for you to further your education if a master’s in nursing degree is what you are thinking about.  With so many choices, it is important to select an online RN-BSN program with a quality reputation, as that quality strengthens your resume.  Some employers have discounts with certain RN-BSN online programs, so check first with your employer for who may offer a discount as well as any tuition reimbursement benefits. 

For more information go to: http://www.sxu.edu/academics/colleges_schools/son/online-programs.asp

 Dr. Maggie