If you’re considering enrolling in Walden University’s online BSN program, then you’ve come to the right place!
In this article, we’ll help you determine whether or not this program may be a good fit for you or if you should consider getting your degree from one of the other best online BSN programs.
Walden University’s Master of Nursing Science program is one of our top-rated MSN programs, and for good reason. They provide a lot of options for getting your advanced degree.
For now though, let’s take a look at the school’s online BSN program.
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Why Enroll in Walden University’s Online BSN Program?
Walden University keeps their online BSN program simple by only offering one undergraduate nursing degree pathway: the RN-to-BSN completion program.
This accredited nursing program features top-quality faculty and simulations in addition to multiple learning formats (Course-based and Tempo Learning).
One thing that really sets this online BSN program apart is that it provides lots of options for nurses who want to get an advanced degree. You can complete some credits toward an MSN degree with the school’s AIM program, or you can skip your BSN and enroll in their RN-to-MSN program.
Unlike many other online nursing programs, Walden University also allows you to obtain an online PhD or Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP). So, while your options may be a little more limited at the BSN level, those interested in advanced degrees should give special consideration to this school.
Graduate Reviews of the BSN Program at Walden University
Some former Walden students left positive reviews on GradReports. Here are a few of them:
“I attended Walden online for my bachelors degree and had a good experience. any online nursing program has to have students that are self motivated, none will hold your hand. I completed 2 classes at a time and they were 6 weeks a piece. I am currently looking for a start date for a NP program with Walden. I see alot of reviews that complain about having to find your own preceptors…. just wanted to say that is the norm for online NP programs. every NP i work with has had to find there own, and I work with NP that attended Perdue, chamberlin, georgetown, and south carolina . Online schools are meant for convenience of working people . You have to know that or you will not be successful in any online program. You always have great professors and not so great professors.. at any school online or in person:)”
-Leslie Stanley-Coleman (January 29, 2019)
“I recommend Walden to those who have good study and computer skills, and can work well independently with online support when needed. I also like the interaction between students. The discussions allow for in-depth conversations about current topics that matter in the world of nursing. Completion requires self-organization, self-regulation, self-management, self-motivation. If you are unable to think independently, you will not succeed at Walden. In addition to the academic rigor, the student support services at Walden were excellent. I always received a response to questions/issues/problems within 24 hours and always satisfactory from advising, financial aid, the writing center, the research center, registrar, etc. Also, the Walden Library is superb and I will greatly miss having access to it. I highly recommend Walden University.”
-Lauren C (July 10, 2018)
4 Pros of Walden University’s Online BSN Program
The online BSN program at Walden University has several benefits differentiating it from other programs. We discuss a few of them below.
1. Positive Alumni Outcomes
Impressively, 99% of graduates from Walden’s online BSN program find employment once they graduate.
Additionally, this school boasts an impressive salary score. According to GradReports, Walden graduates earn a median salary of $76,890, earning the university an 85/100 salary score.
While the median alumni debt is $20,830, the above-average salaries can certainly make it worth it. After all, 100% of the 13 students asked said that the BSN degree from Walden improved their career prospects.
2. Multiple Ways To Learn
Walden University offers two different learning paths for students: Course-based Learning and Tempo Learning.
The Course-based learning features an instructor-led approach with a predetermined schedule. This is the more traditional format that most students are used to.
On the other hand, Tempo Learning features a flexible schedule with no predetermined weekly deadlines. This allows you to learn on your schedule and at your own pace.
3. Top-quality Instruction
100% of Walden University’s classroom teaching faculty hold doctoral degrees. Most faculty members also have extensive experience as practicing clinicians.
The school also provides personalized practicum support, which the school refers to as Practicum Advantage. This provides coaching, resources, and self-help tools to help you figure out clinical sites that fit your interests and needs.
Finally, Walden provides interactive and realistic simulations for its students. This allows you to gain practical experience and health assessment skills through Digital Clinical Experiences by Shadow Health.
4. Advanced Degree Options
While the focus of this post is Walden University’s online BSN program, the schools also features options for RNs looking to obtain an advanced degree.
For example, the school’s AIM program allows you to complete up to 15 Master’s level credits at the undergraduate tuition rate.
Additionally, Walden features an RN-to-MSN program which allows you to skip your BSN altogether. You can earn your MSN in a number of specialties, including but not limited to:
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Public Health Nursing
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
Cons of Walden University’s Online BSN Program
The main downside to Walden University’s online BSN program is that they only feature an RN-to-BSN completion program.
This means you’ll need to already be a licensed RN if you hope to earn your Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing at Walden.
However, this school also offers pathways to complete your MSN online, so it may be the perfect choice if you’re an RN and are thinking about going for an advanced degree.
Conclusion
While Walden University doesn’t provide an online BSN track for those who aren’t already licensed RNs, it could be a great choice if you’re looking for an RN-to-BSN completion program.
However, it’s always a good idea to explore your options when choosing any degree program.
If you’re not sure where to look for other programs, then click here to find an online BSN program suited to your goals.
Nurse Luke is a CRNA who specializes in Nursing content and still enjoys a very busy career with Locum, Per Diem and Travel nursing in the greater midwest. He has over 25 years of experience in the healthcare field and received his CRNA masters degree from the Mayo Clinic School of Healthcare. He is passionate about helping nurses explore the options of becoming a travel nurse as well as spending time with his Family.
