Walden University

Date: Dec 31 1969
Major: Nursing (This Major's Salary over time)
Walden University is a school for those that are self-motivated and disciplined in their approach to academics. The classes require scholarly writing and research, at least in the nursing program. My undergraduate program was at the U.S. Air Force Academy, and I majored in engineering, so I know what rigorous is. Walden does not quite approach that level of difficulty, but it is a viable alternative for those students who have a full time career, family, and limited time to attend a brick and mortar school. I found that the amount of time put into the coursework was (surprise) directly related to the grade received. Instructors are always available, which means that I have always had the cell number of each instructor and was able to call them if any questions arose. Any time I e-mailed my instructor, I received a reply within 24 hours. The grades are fair, but you as the student must put in the effort. In the nursing program the students are required to find their own sites for clinical hours, which can be frustrating. I suggest that any prospective student research appropriate clinical sites the first year they begin the program so that they will be prepared by the time clinicals begin. The number of clinical hours are comparable to brick and mortar universities, and like most graduate programs in nursing the student is responsible for their own proficiency while working with the physicians. The family nurse practitioner (FNP) program requires a national exam to become certified, and Walden prepared me for that test. In some fields, where you go to school may be important. as a FNP, passing a national certification shows that you have obtained the knowledge needed to practice. I recommend Walden for the MSN in nursing.