Nurse Education

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Question: Can I continue on to get my masters in nursing after completing my bachelor's degree, if I am not eligible for the Accelerated RN-MSN Program.

Answer.  Yes you can.  Our masters program is matched to allow you to transition easily into the master's program. To get more information about the program go to: http://www.uiw.edu/gradstudies/nursing.html or http://www.uiw.edu/msn/index.htm

Question: How long would it take to complete both programs if I continued to pursue my masters through the traditional route without a break after finishing my bachelor’s degree? 
Answer:  It would take approximately 3 to 4 years based on part time study and less time is expected if full time.

Question:  If I am accepted in the accelerated RN-MSN program, approximately how long would it take me to complete the program?
Answer: Based on full time study, it will take approximately 3 to 3.5 years based on part time study and less time if fulltime study.

 Question:  If I am accepted in the accelerated RN-MSN program, and I decide that I want to get my BSN earlier while enrolled in the program, would I be able to apply for my BSN degree. 
Answer:  Yes.  The program is designed to allow students to apply for the UG degree when they have achieved 120 hours and meet the requirements of the UG degree.  This will need to be determined by each individual student’s degree plan.

Question:  If I am enrolled in the RN-MSN curriculum and I want to revert back to the traditional RN-BSN curriculum, will I be able to? 
Answer:  Yes:  This is possible.  Again, your placement back in the RN-BSN program will be determined based on your individual record. 

Question:  If I have most of the general core prerequisites required for the undergraduate curriculum completed, could I apply for the RN-MSN program.
Answer:  Yes.  These credits would apply toward your UG requirement of the RN-BSN curriculum.

Question:  If I have another degree in another field and I want to apply for the MSN program, how can I apply?
Answer:  Unfortunately, UIW does not have a program that allows applicants with a degree in another field without the Associate’s Degree or being a registered nurse.  You will need to be evaluated by the generic undergraduate advisors to determine your eligibility for the UG program.  

Question:  If I am taking general core courses but I do not have an Associates or diploma, what is the best option for me to get my bachelors degree?
Answer:  There are two options.  First you can have your transcripts evaluated for potential admission to the generic nursing program which is the 4 year nursing program.  For more information visit: http://uiw.edu/nursing/nprospects.html.  Your second option is for you to first attend an Associate’s Degree Program in a community based college.  In the local area are San Antonio College and St Phillips College.  Complete your ADN which should take you 1-2 years depending on the number of credits that you have already taken.  Then take your licensing exam, National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) and pass it, and get at least 6 months nursing experience.  Then seek us out for your bachelors which should take you less than 18 months.  To find out more about San Antonio College and St Phillips College visit: http://www.accd.edu/spc/ or if you live and work outside of the San Antonio area, any Associates Degree or Diploma Program will have a similar nursing curricula.

Question:  If I am a Licensed Vocational/Practical Nurse, when would I be able to enroll in this program?
Answer:  Again, your option would be to continue your education by pursuing your Associates Degree in Nursing, take you licensing exam (NCLEX), get 6 months of professional nursing experience, then apply to our online RN-BSN program.

Question:  Is assistance available for students who are returning to school after many years? 
Answer:  Yes.  There are many resources available to assist nursing students who have been out of the academic environment for long periods of time.  You will have individual advisement.  We offer resources to provide tutoring, assistance with writing skills, etc.  Our school is known for nurturing our students.  We have small class sizes, allowing for individual assistance.

Question:  I have served in the military and have many years of lifelong learning.  Are there methods to assist me in gaining credit for previous learning and knowledge?
Answer:  Yes.  There are several commonly used methods that you may utilize to have your previous knowledge and learning evaluated.  College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and Defense Activity for Non-traditional Education Support (DANTES) are available.  For more information about credit by examination, visit http://www.uiw.edu/registrar/creditbyexam.htm

Question: If I was a student in another RN-BSN program and want to transfer to your program will any of my nursing credits be accepted?

Answer: Yes we can except up to 6 nursing credits from another accredited nursing program.