WGU || BSN in 6 months + MSN in 6 months

Hi there! 👋
In this video I give you a testimony of my WGU experience. 🤓
I was able to obtain my BSN degree in 6 months and then get my MSN degree in 6 months! Thank you Jesus! 🙌🏼
I hope this video inspires you to continue your education. You got this!📚👩🏽‍🏫
#wgu #wgualumni #rntobsn #rntomsn #nurseeducator #nurse #education #instructor #nursingeducation #hospital #college #msn #bsn #documentarian

[@brynicole2094]

Hi Congratulations !! Thank you so much for describing the inside scoops of the program and sharing with us your journey along the way. I’m going back to school soon through the same school and the information you gave was very informative.

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi brynicole, nice to meet you! Awesome, I’m glad this video is helpful! That’s great!

[@RyanSmith-wc5vj]

This is so encouraging for me. God bless you for taking the time to share your journey.

[@ereykalicea23]

Thank you for sharing, inspiring, and motivating me and showing us it can be done when you have a busy full time life outside your work schedule. Best of luck, and blessings to you and family.🙏

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Ereyk Alicea, nice to meet you! Thank you so much! 🙏🏼

[@amyrenn7010]

Hi Alyssa! Thank you so much for this video! I have an April 1st start date at WGU, for RN to BSN. My goal is to complete it within 6 months. I have been a nurse for 23 years, am only working part-time, and my son is out of the house. I have NO excuses! You are super inspiring and a force of nature! Thank you again for taking the time to do this video!

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Amy Renn, nice to meet you! Thank you for your kind words. That’s great news, you got this! 💪🏼

[@user-bu7kd5pb2w]

Hi Amy, I saw your post and wanted to ask how your schooling is going at WGU. I am in in the evaluation process and I am looking forward to start as soon as possible. Bea

[@journeytoabetteru]

It’s a competency based program So Many people have the experience already…. Why not get the degree especially since in nursing degrees usually trump experience when it comes to moving up the laddder. It wouldn’t make sense to have experience and drag out the courses if it’s not necessary 🤷🏽‍♀️ I completed my BSN there and am now starting a MBA program with them, I’m not staying long to pay more either.

[@a69443]

Did you finish yet? What was your experience?

[@haitianluv10]

Theres nothing wrong with this , Theres alot of ppl jn this country who came from snother country as s physician or nurse and they have to start over.

[@carrielee8586]

This is exactly what I'm currently working on. RN-BSN-MSN-Ed. Well done!! Thanks for inspiring us!!

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Carrie Miller, nice to meet you! Yay!That’s great! Thank you.

[@danyelldurham4188]

Congratulations Alyssa! I am interested in enrolling at WGU one day. Thank you for sharing with us!

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Danyell, nice to meet you! That’s great to hear. Best of luck! 🙏🏼

[@britain-annehobbs1879]

Such an inspiring video! Thank you! I was trying to find an MSN program online but was confused about the clinical/preceptorship portion.

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Britain-Anne, nice to meet you. For my MSN preceptorship portion, I was able to have one of my prior Nursing Instructors be my preceptor. As a preceptor, they look over everything that you were going to do and submit for your final capstone project. Clinical is more a verification that you put in the work/hours. Your preceptor signs off on that.

[@r.z.j.8261]

Thank you for motivating me to get into WGU!!

[@joshl8599]

Grats! Better leadership is a desperate need in most hospitals. Hope the future treats you well!

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

I agree. I’m hoping that I can make an impact through education. By doing so, make an impact in future nurses who may take on leadership roles within the hospital setting.

[@LysdoReiJeus]

I appreciate you telling us the background you had while doing it

[@user-un1we6nr1z]

Hi! I’m active duty army in Korea and I have my bachelors already. I love your video ur inspiring me to get my masters while overseas !!!

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi A, nice to meet you! I’m happy to hear that this video was an inspiration to you. Thank you for your service. Best of luck on your future endeavors! 🙏🏼

[@SimicChameleon]

Congratulations for becoming a nurse and productive member for the medical profession.

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi SimicChameleon, nice to meet you! Thank you so much!

[@MNP208]

I did the BSN through WGU in about 4 months. It was basically a repeat of my ADN. 😊 Working 0.7 fte definitely helped!

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi M, nice to meet you! That’s amazing! Kuddos to you! 👍🏼👍🏼

[@mercyzagrocki9483]

How, I start mine soon

[@jeanetteh.8393]

Thank you! That's really awesome! For content is it like a regular online class like with Books and online lectures?

[@suzanpool]

AWESOME I AM INSPIRED AND GOING!!!! Thank you!!!

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi suzanpool, nice to meet you! Your welcome! That’s great news! You got this! 👍🏼

[@JW-zd5ry]

Wow! I have no words. I'm currently finishing a master's program, and there are so many papers more than my BSN. I'm single with no kids. I couldn't imagine going back to school with kids.

[@prjersey]

Thank your sharing your story is beautiful and inspiring

[@DianaGomez-oj2dc]

Congratulations Your success is my inspiration

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Diana, nice to meet you! Thank you! 💗🙏🏼

[@InspireRise300]

Thank you so much for this video.

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi MrGoldie300, nice to meet you! Your welcome! 👍🏼

[@Aquanettajw1]

Wow! Congrats🎉🌼🌺🌸

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Aquanettajw1, nice to meet you! Thank you so much!

[@Aquanettajw1]

You are most welcome.

[@ryanahmadi9771]

Thank you for your great video. In the same time frame that it took for you to complete BSN & MSN, I could only complete 8 credit hours at NAU. I wish I had gone to WGU instead of NAU (Northern Arizona University). I made the biggest mistake of my life by enrolling in an online MSN Generalist at NAU. I could only complete 2 courses worth 5 credit hours in the first six months, and I put in hundreds of hours of studying and writing reports. After 2 sessions of six months each, I have only completed 8 courses and 3 more courses to go. Each course has 4 or 5 lessons, and each lesson has 4 or 5 assignments, and each assignment has 2 or 3 more required pieces. Each lesson is like an octopus with many tentacles that hold students down for another 6 months so that they can make more money. I have practically run out of enthusiasm to continue. After 2 sessions (six months each) of the depressing and frustrating nightmare, I have taken an unending break and frankly do not know when or if I will restart again to end the agony of getting through this nightmare. I can not just transfer my credits to other schools and complete the MSN requirements because just about every nursing school requires students to complete THEIR MSN requirements, and I will lose most of my completed credits. I am more mad at myself for choosing NAU than anything else. I have practically researched all nursing schools in the nation, and I ended up selecting the worse one. Their curriculum is so outdated that it boggles my mind with the requirements to complete an assignment, and believe me, there are many, many assignments highly unrelated to nursing or health care. Another thing is that this is the only school that charges students $120 if they pay their tuition with their credit card. You have to give them your bank account information if you do not want to pay $120 for using a credit card. In doing my nationwide nursing school research, I could not talk to their courses advisor unless I was registered for the course, and I could not register for the course unless I apply and was accepted into the curriculum. In spite of these warnings, I was stupid enough to enroll and simply just wasted a chunk of my life over this MSN Generalis at NAU. I have never been this depressed and angry at myself for enrolling at a school or taking classes. Northern Arizona University in Flagg Staff, Arizona, is the school to be avoided by all students who have the ambition to continue nursing education and desire to get through their MSN in a reasonable time frame. NAU beat the life out of me. Please do not be the next victim.

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Ryan Ahmadi, nice to meet you! Wow… I wish you would’ve heard of WGU before starting NAU. Hopefully, things will start turning in the right direction for you. 🙏🏼

[@ryanahmadi9771]

@@Alyssa.Suarez Thank you. I hope so.

[@zainablawal7723]

Congrats 🍾 and God bless you for your inspiration and motivation! I’m a single mom Lpn looking into your same route after the adn. Wondering must you wait to start the msn or can you start right after the bsn at WGU? Thanks!

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Zainab, nice to meet you! Thank you! Once you have your ADN you can go straight for your MSN. I just wanted my BSN then discovered I loved teaching/precepting so I went for my MSN in Nursing Education.

[@giamarlize]

Congratulations!! Thank you for sharing this video with us! Will you tell me about your clinical rotations/ hands on training? How was the schedule for that?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi giamarlize, nice to meet you! My clinical experience is not your “typical” clinical. For my BSN I took care of COVID pts on the unit I worked on. For BSN & MSN I also completed patient/community care via simulated patients and a simulated community.

[@Chykoli]

I’m so glad I came across your video…I can’t even imagine. I’m calling WGU

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Best of luck! 🙏🏼

[@kissableglow7801]

Thank you so much for this video, i been looking into 3 different programs i want to start by dec - for bsn is it mostly papers or mix of both paper and exam? And for clinicals whats the requirements

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Kissable Glow, nice to meet you. For my BSN it was more tests/exams. For my MSN it was more papers/essays. I’m hoping to do another video that breaks down all the courses I took for my BSN and MSN.

[@jacolbeevans8811]

Thank you so much! I start March 1st on my BSN

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Jacolbe, nice to meet you! That’s great! You got this! 👍🏼

[@jacolbeevans8811]

@@Alyssa.Suarez thank you🤍

[@ketachamaragh9059]

Just started my MSN in January and did my first class in 4 days. I’m hoping I can keep up the pace. Some courses require more than others.

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Ketcha Maragh, nice to meet you! That’s great! Yes, I agree… some courses do require more time than others. Keep up the good work!

[@ketachamaragh9059]

@@Alyssa.Suarez You as well! But I love WGU for the ability to do it at my pace. I want to finish in 6 months as well. Almost done with the second class. Took me an extra 2 weeks though. But I’m going to keep pushing. Congrats to you! I’m so inspired 😌

[@thehaskellfamilycreative]

I'm about to start my MSN in June and hope to finish in 6 months as well. Keep up the good work!!

[@jennifermonahan6189]

Did you find you had a lot of papers vs tests to take ?

[@natanyajohnson4571]

What to really expect other than papers, experience portion as well as capstone?

[@Antonio-tq9cj]

Hey Alyssa, thanks for the videos - all super helpful. Quick question for the MSN are those proctored or similar to the bachelor format? Also, is there exams or class interactions in the masters or is everything purely remote?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Antonio-tq9cj, nice to meet you! If I remember correctly the MSN is similar to the BSN in the beginning until you get to the Capstone Project for the MSN. For both degrees everything was online (remote) however, I want to say there were different live kinda like study sessions that you can attend online as well.

[@Shelleys_World]

Great video I am going back and forth between Capella and WGU there are videos on Capella of the 8 core classes. Can you tell me how many core nursing classes there are and the numbers and names of them for the RN to BSN or a video would be great! Thanks for sharing💕

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

@Lyric’sWorld I’m actually out of town right now so I don’t have that info in front of me. But I can possible make a video about the specific classes I took. I’ve also heard good things about Capella, but I’m not familiar with their course load.

[@robinsutherland6731]

Hi there! Thank you for your video! I'm about to start my MSN in Education on October 1, and was very glad to see that you could complete it in less than 6 months. Any tips or tricks? Thank you very much!

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Yay! That's great! Tips/tricks are to join the "cohort sessions" that are offered within the course(s), stay organized, and take time to take care of yourself.

[@user-bu7kd5pb2w]

Congratulations on your achievements. You are definitely an inspiration. I’ve been a nurse for 20 yrs and now at 50 yo I am looking to go back to school for my ADN to BSN at WGU. Can you share more information on how you completed your BSN in 6 months. I am very interested in learning about your plan. Thank you, Bea

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Bea, nice to meet you! Thanks for the kind words. That’s great, you can do it! 💪🏼 I just opened up some videos that I had posted in the past. I hope they help.

[@jesusistheonlywaytoheavenj7880]

I believe you have to have your RN first wgu then bsn

[@caroler4297]

Bea, At 66 yrs, I started my ASN to BSN, and finished at 68, I had bridged from a Lpn program at a local University so I needed more classes. I'm starting a MHA hopefully in July. You can do this.

[@user-lf6pt2ht6z]

Same boat here. Let me know how you fared..

[@veetski8140]

You know I watched this video after work one day when I was pissed off because I was denied a promotion for not having my BSN. Didn't matter that I had been a manager for years or that I was more than qualified with experience it needed to be a degree. This inspired me to go hellfire and get it done. Thankfully I was connected with an amazing program mentor and finished in 4 months, but like you I couldn't just stop. I mean when you have a good thing going why get off the train now? So I went on for the MBA in healthcare management. Finished both in less than 8 months. Thanks Alyssa.

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi there! Wow!! That is awesome! 👍🏼👍🏼

[@yani4047]

Hi, WGU requires 100hrs of outpatient clinical hours for the RN to BSN program. How are you able to finish in 4months with that?

[@veetski8140]

Best thing is to find your own clinical. Mine was a colleagues friend who worked homecare and hospice. Her manager was very prompt about approving my information. The school got my clearance done in no time and I was rockin. I did have to burn some vacation to get it done but my boss was super cool. Make sure you get your clearance done ASAP

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

@@yani4047 Hi there! When I was obtaining by BSN, I was working at the hospital with COVID patients. My shifts worked counted towards my clinical hours.

[@JocieFire]

Thank you so much for sharing this and congratulations!! I realize it will be different for everyone, but approximately how many hours did you spend per week studying?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi J M, nice to meet you! Thank you! I would say I spent approx. 30+ hours a week doing school work. For those six-month period, my schedule revolved around school.

[@lindseychoi]

Thank you for uploading this video and congrats for you! May I ask how many courses did you have to take for RN to BSN program? Do I have to take the Capstones again if I already took it at my previous community college? Also, what is the course ‘Advanced standing for RN license’? Can I the credits for it if I have the RN license already? Thank you in advance.

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Lindsey Choi, nice to meet you! Thank you so much! I took 13 courses + Orientation for my RN to BSN. I'm not too sure about already completing a "capstone" and whether or not you would have to do it again. I recommend you contact WGU and ask them these types of questions. Best of luck!

[@nucienuce110]

this is fantastic

[@JN14120711]

Hi! Congrats!!!! For the MSN Ed- did you get a choice about the content you chose to write about or were there specific topics you had to do in your papers/essays?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Jacki Ish, nice to meet you. If I remember correctly, they provide you with a rubric that specifies the expectations for each paper/essay. However, you can choose what topic you want for your capstone. For example, my capstone topic was Rapid Response/Code Blue.

[@JN14120711]

@@Alyssa.Suarez Thank you so much! I’ve been debating the msn ed for about a year and finally worked up the courage and found a 6 month period I can really devote time to it! Thanks for the motivation.

[@gachuhichege6390]

Hey there! Super glad to hear of all us success while being a working mom/wife. I was wondering if you had to take the TEAS exam before doing their prelicensure degree, and what was your score?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi there, nice to meet you. I had taken the TEAS test prior to starting my ADN program. If I remember correctly my score was like 78 or something in that range. 😬 Not the best score, but I passed.

[@revolutionaryforall]

Great video. Would love to hear your story about taking the state exam for nursing.

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Later Than Usual Productions, nice to meet you! Thanks! Sure, I can do a video about that. 👍🏼

[@SonOFGod700]

@@Alyssa.Suarez thank you

[@daughterofzionfaith494]

Hi Alyssa, is WGU referring you to West Georgia University? Was your BSN online? Were you an RN before? Or did you have to complete some prerequisite courses first?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Daughter of Zion Faith, nice to meet you! WGU stands for Western Governors University. Yes, my BSN was online. Yes, I was already an RN prior to starting the program. My pre-reqs were the classes I had already taken in my ADN program.

[@nallelycortes45]

Hi congrats! During clinicals were you able to get through them quick or did you have to wait for others in the program to move forward during clinicals?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Nallely Cortes, nice to meet you! You do clinical on your own. For WGU, your not a part of a cohort or group of other students. You are completing your own clinical hours at your own pace.

[@dylansylvan6398]

Thank you, very helpful

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

You're welcome!

[@robertoconnell8153]

Congratulations!! I'm still a new nurse, only 7 months on the job. I'm planning to go back and get my BSN but I expected that the knowledge gained would improve the care I provide my patients... I've been told that's not really true and that the majority of the BSN work is not really patient care focused. What do you think? Also, do you think you miss out on any key information moving through a program at an accelerated pace? Thank you and congrats again!! =)

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Robert, nice to meet you. Congrats on becoming an RN during the pandemic. Maybe it depends on what nursing school you attend. I think the BSN focused more on building on the foundational knowledge you obtain in your ADN in specifics to community health, nursing practice/research. I don’t think I missed out on any key info. With WGU you go at your own pace. I took 6 months but some people take longer than 6 months. Thank you.

[@robertoconnell8153]

@@Alyssa.Suarez Thank you for your reply! I think I'll give them a try. The option to move at my own pace seems really attractive. Take care=)

[@naimyoung6725]

Thanks very informative

[@ceyonhogan5656]

Hi Congrats! Does the bsn to msn portion contain any clinicals or things to do out in the community? I live in a rural area so it's hard to find locations. Also do you feel like employers take WGU seriously?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Cece, nice to meet you! Yes, there are clinical requirements. That’s something you can ask a WGU rep about. I did my BSN during the pandemic so my “clinicals” may be different than yours at this time. Yes! Once I obtained my degrees, I received a raise at the hospital I worked at as well as obtained a job teaching at a college.

[@lisamarie5244]

Love WGU!

[@nydiare]

Hi Alyssa, how many assessments per class for the MSN, & clinical hours did the MSN require and where did you do it, does WGU provide placement and preceptor? Thanks in advance! :)

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Nydiare, nice to meet you! I'm hoping to upload a video real soon that goes over all of these details. I did my "preceptorship" at the college I went to school for Nursing. I asked one of my old instructors to be my "preceptor". If you do choose a preceptor, WGU will assign one to you.

[@karibrown9302]

So inspiring! How much time a day would you say you spent working on schoolwork?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Kari Brown, nice to meet you! Thank you! 💗 I actually created a video about my “life at WGU” kzbin.info/www/bejne/rXalm2iAgbt9eMk I would say at least 6-10 hrs/day. Depending on if it was a work day or non work day.

[@lydiadewberry4699]

Thank you for sharing your experience. Did you have to find a preceptor? Did you have to present with the capstone project?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Lyd, nice to meet you. Yes, I was able to choose my preceptor. I asked one of my previous nursing instructors to be my preceptor. If your are unable to find a preceptor WGU will help you find one. Yes, I presented my Capstone at my previous nursing school and my preceptor signed off on it.

[@Lilianthecookingnurse]

This is a great video, thank you so much for doing it, I start April 1st, 2023 for my MSN in informatics with already 6 classes approved for transfer from a different institution, I hope to complete it within six months as well. How long does it take for a degree to be conferred?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Lilian, nice to meet you! That’s great! To be honest I’m not sure. But that’s good that they approved those courses for transfer! Best of luck! 🙏🏼

[@denisefrias1058]

I spoke to a counselor this weekend who told me the quickest I can finish the BSN program was 2 years 🥺 I have a ton of the science courses needed she hasn’t seen my transcripts or anything and said it didn’t matter what classes I had that 2 years was the fastest.

[@denisefrias1058]

Did you to an RN to BSN program? Or a traditional BSN program?

[@denisefrias1058]

Is there a way I can ask you more questions? Email? Or Instagram or something pleaseee! Lol

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Denise, nice to meet you! I’m sorry to hear this. I’m not sure what counselor you spoke to, but you would think they’d need to see you transcripts before giving you guidance?!

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

@@denisefrias1058 I did the RN to BSN. Took a break. Then went back for my MSN in Nursing Education.

[@northdakotausa]

Hi Alyssa, you have inspired me to go for RN to BSN. Do we need to take an exam at the end of each course or throughout the course? How tough are the exams? Once again, thank you so much for inspiring us.

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi there, nice to meet you! Each course is different, some classes have papers and others have exams. If I remember correctly the exams weren’t too bad. Except CHEMISTRY!! 🫣😂

[@kristienacorrie3936]

Thank you I am taking same program and starting in May 1st

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Yay!! That’s exciting news. You got this! 🙏🏼

[@leidycastillo7068]

Hi Alyssa! I hope everything is good with you. Thank you for this video. I am thinking on doing the same thing but my goal is CRNA school, I know that they care more about the hands on experience than the school you go to, any problems with getting a job?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi there! That’s awesome! I was already employed at a local hospital. Obtaining my BSN was just more so a pay raise and leadership opportunities. Obtaining my MSN allowed me to teach in a Nursing program. I was hired shortly after receiving my degree. I now work at a local community college, and had no problem getting the job.

[@Babesofthepower1113]

Thanks for the video. How many classes did you open at a time? Did you start with four classes open? What was ur strategy?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Julia, nice to meet you. I actually only had one or two classes open at a time. I literally just did one class at a time.

[@sherikags2956]

Congratulations on your achievements. Do you do performance assessment for all your courses in the MSN program?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi there! Thank you so much. I’d have to look back at my notebook to be sure, I believe the majority of the MSN was performance assessments.

[@susanrodgers5762]

Hey Alyssa! What did you think about Advanced Pathopharmacology? I am very intimidated and super concerned about passing it. Thanks so much!

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Susan Rodgers, nice to meet you! The only pharmacology class I remember taking is during my MSN, it was D027. From what I remember I had to write a paper that consisted of 3 phases. So basically writing 3 papers! 😆 I also wrote another paper about a patient that I choose from the Shadow Health virtual simulation. In addition, this course requires you to upload about 3 GoReact videos. I hope this info helps & I’m looking forward to hearing an update when you pass the class! 👍🏼👍🏼

[@susanrodgers5762]

@@Alyssa.Suarez Thank you so much! I will definitely let you know! Blessings-Susan

[@edwinreyes8779]

Does WGU have a traditional bsn program or only if you are already a nurse? I have a bachelors but not in nursing and pursuing my 2nd Bsn. Great video! 👍 congratulations 🎉

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi there, nice to meet you! That’s a great question, I would reach out to one of there reps. From what I understand the program is designed for RNs who want to get there BSN/MSN. Thanks!

[@aadriaanaa]

Hi Alyssa, would you share what order you took the BSN classes? Is there a way to take them to finish in 6mo? Thank you, great video! Congrats too!!

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi there! Here is a link to my other video where I go over the classes I took for my BSN and MSN, kzbin.info/www/bejne/bF6pk2OifcScnLssi=N0L9Tf5w78tnYFkR Anything is possible. I recommend talking to a WGU rep and seeing what classes you’ll need to take. Thank you! 🙏🏼 🩷

[@Alore_08]

I wasnt aware you needed field experience for the MSN-Education. I thought that was for Clinical Degrees like NP. Anyhow did you study/do work every day in order to complete it so quickly?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi WinterxAlore, nice to meet you! Yes, the MSN education path does require field experience. However, the “field experience” is more like the leg work for your capstone. It requires you working with your preceptor and finding information to support your capstone project. As I mentioned in the video, I am a wife, mother of three children and worked full time as a bedside RN. I set my goal to complete my courses in 6 months. This required me getting up around 4:30am trying to squeeze in an hour or two of homework or study time before going to work on my work days. Sometimes after coming home from my shift, I would also stay up after putting my kids to bed and work on any assignments/papers that were due. On my days off, after taking my kids to school I would devote the majority of my day to studying, reviewing, and completing assignments until it was time to pick my kids up. Completing this degree in 6 months is a BIG commitment. It was basically like being in nursing school all over again. But only for 6 months, instead of 2 years! 😊

[@Alore_08]

@@Alyssa.Suarez Thank you for such a detailed response and congratulations on achieving your degrees! Your work ethic is very inspiring and I will check out what Master’s programs WGU has to offer. Thank you!

[@user-ib2fc8ku3r]

Hello, I am a current student in term 4, do you have any recs or tips on study material as far as what to focus on and what is a waste of time? I am a 44 year old mother of 6 and I just feel overwhelmed and like I'm all over the place when it comes to studying, any advice would be appreciated! Your story is beautiful and so inspiring! America

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi there! Thank you! You are inspiring!! I’m an auditory/visual learner, so I would watch videos about the content I didn’t understand. I also joined the class cohorts that had videos and information that helped solidify what I was learning. I hope this helps. 🙏🏼 You got this!! 💪🏽💕

[@nettiesmith657]

how about the classes that require the clinical experiences? Im gonna be starting in Jan. I have 12 classes to take.n They are starting me with 4. I am trying to finish in 6 months but as I receive more information, I see there are two classes towards the end that require preceptors to do clinical hours 40+. Also the capstone I believe you have to also do clinical hrs. There requirement says preceptor application has to be done and set up at least 6 months prior but of course I can't do that now. How as it for you?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Nettie Smith, nice to meet you! That’s awesome to hear that you’ll be starting in January! My clinical hours was the time I worked on my Capstone. There is a document that helps you track your time spent and your preceptor signs off on it. Your WGU mentor should be able to walk you through all of these steps when the time comes. If you are unable to find a preceptor, WGU will provide one for you. My preceptor was my previous nursing instructor. I was able to do my capstone presentation at my old nursing school which was pretty cool. Hope all goes well in January! 🙏🏼

[@traya14]

Congratulations!!! Thank you so much for this video! I’m planning on starting my RN to BSN. What’s the work load like? And did you have a graduation ceremony?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Thank you! That’s great, I definitely recommend WGU. Like I mentioned in the video it’s kind of a go at your own pace. It also depends on what courses you need based on your transcripts. I remember one course requiring me to have weekly meetings with the teacher and fellow students. Depending on the course you may have to take a test or write a paper. They do offer a graduation ceremony. However, they are out of state. It just depends on where they are offering it and at what time of the year.

[@BG-mp7hh]

Did you already have experience in the field prior to starting? I have 0 experience in nursing but I want to switch to the field and I was looking into their pre-licensure program.

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi BG, nice to meet you! Yes, I had been working on a Med/Tele floor for about a year and a half prior to starting my BSN.

[@erinbutler1255]

Question. To my understanding, the BSN has roaf blocks for accelerating due to clinical. I'm going through orientation (I start June 1st). I have 8 more general education classes, and of course, the remaining nurse specific classes. What I'm reading on the orientation that classes with clinical component's can't be accelerated. Basically what I'm trying to understand what type of delay will I run to trying to accelerate thanks to clinicals?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi there, Erin, nice to meet you! I have received other comments in regards to clinicals. When I went for my BSN, my clinicals consisted of caring for Covid patients and completing virtual patient care. I’m not too sure how clinicals will work post-pandemic. If you are working as an RN, I THINK those hours can be counted towards your clinical hours?!

[@erinbutler1255]

@@Alyssa.Suarez thank you for your response, that's very kind of you to provide me with helpful insight! It's truly appreciated! I have one more question, if that's OK with you. Do you have any recommendations as a general gameplan of the best way to successful accelerate a class. Things like don't waste too much time doing X. Instead put more time into x. Or maybe some Do's and Don't concepts?

[@blondielennox]

Thank you for your video.. if you do program in 6 months it was only about $4 for the msn?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Jamie, nice to meet you! When you apply and start WGU, you pay upfront for a 6 month time period. It was $4735.

[@jessicacabanos8581]

Hi how did you meet clinical hours? And did you have to get your hours signed off by someone with an MSN or did it not matter?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi jessicacabanos8581, nice to meet you! WGU uses a form entitled, Clinical Practice Experience (CPE) Record. These forms are to be completed and linked to an e-portfolio that you build throughout the program. My hours where signed off by my preceptor.

[@ladygadventures4144]

question, why you didn't go straight to MSN?? bec my school is offering rn to msn or rn to bsn, and im having a hard to time to decide. :/

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi LadyG, nice to meet you! Good question. At first I was just going back for BSN. After I did my precepting and committee work at the hospital I realized that I love teaching! That’s when I decided to go back for my MSN in Nursing Education.

[@soniairizarry3511]

Hi Alyssa, I'm interested in completing my BSN degree, currently, I'm in another school for my BSN, however, feel I'm not getting the support I need. Are statistics and biochemistry difficult? I'm 65 years old and this has been a challenge with the lack of support and being on the phone for so long when I have a question, Any information would be helpful. Thank you

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Sonia, nice to meet you! I’m sorry your feeling this way. 😕 I will say I felt very supported at WGU. My mentor called me every week to check in. I definitely had to brush up on my math skills and chemistry because it had been awhile since I had taken any courses like those. I signed up for the cohorts that had videos and additional information to help me pass the course. KZbin is also a great resource! I know Khan academy has lots of good videos about Biochem.

[@soniairizarry3511]

I'm really nervous about the biochemistry and statistics, Capella doesn't offer as much support as I thought. Should've went to WGU from the beginning. I've never taken courses online before

[@soniairizarry3511]

I've never heard of Khan academy. I live in Connecticut. Been an OR nurse for 35 years. I wonder how much I can transfer seeing that I'm out of school so long

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Here is a link to playlists of Khan Academy videos about Biochem: kzbin.info/aero/PLt-HNFhslOsY3T0VWvbfG0UXEra9BJBXW kzbin.info/aero/PL69F00C0292710F7A

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

@@soniairizarry3511 You got this! 🙏🏼💗

[@mars3676]

Congrats Did you get promoted/increase responsibility or got more pay ?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Mars, nice to meet you. Yes, I provided proof of completion to my HR dept and received a small raise. My "real" promotion/increase in pay was when I used my degree to apply for my Clinical Ladder within my hospital. With each ladder, I received incremental raises. For example, in order to obtain my Clin III I had to either have my Masters degree or take a State Test. As well as other paperwork the hospital required.

[@mars3676]

@@Alyssa.Suarez thank you Ms. Suarez for explaining that. I was very curious how that work especially with the nursing shortage we have

[@robinsutherland6731]

Also, how long did it take you to do your field experience/clinical and your capstone? Thank you again!

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Robin, nice to meet you. For my BSN my field experience (C229 course) took roughly 10 days to complete. For my MSN my field experience (C946 course) took roughly a month and my capstone (C947) was completed in about 10 days. I believe I was already working on my capstone during my field experience.

[@pamelahall9253]

On my transcript evaluation, it says I’ve completed 70% of the program for the prelicensure program. How soon did you think I could complete the program?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Pamela Hall, nice to meet you. That’s great! To be honest, I don’t know. I know that it took me 6 months for my BSN and 6 months for my MSN. If your already 70% done you can prob get done in less than 6 months.

[@naynayjones9166]

I am starting Nov 1st this year!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hey NayNay! Nice to meet you. Yay!! I’m so happy for you! 🤩

[@AshutoshRajbhandari]

Hi Alysa. Congratulations. I am also thinking of starting my MBA degree at WGU. But, I wanted to know what is the exact process for getting a Tax ID Number for applying to the programme as I am currently in my home town in Nepal and don't have a Social Security Number ? Can you help me out on this. Thanks.

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Ashutosh, nice to meet you! I definitely recommend checking out the WGU website and see if you can’t set up an appointment to speak to a rep. I really have know idea about that process. Best of luck! 🙏🏼

[@user-yz9gp7sd7s]

Congratulation !!! I just graduated from WGU BSN program. I am planning to do FNP but wondering what route to take. BSN- regular MSN , then go for post certificate FNP or BSN- straight to MSNFNP. What you think? Cost effective wise.

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi there, nice to meet you! Thanks! I think the most cost effective path would be to go straight for you FNP if that’s what you know you want to do. If I could do things differently (had I known for sure that I wanted to go for my MSN) I would’ve went straight for my MSN instead of getting my BSN first. But ultimately, you have to do what’s best for you. Congrats on your accomplishments as well! 🎉

[@bencylove]

Thank you dear for the advice and insight.

[@ashleyleff2915]

I just started researching how to get my asn.or bsn. I never went to college unfortunately but now that I'm a single mom I need to make a living and healthcare is my passion but home health aide doesn't pay all the bills :( does WGU expect ya to already have a degree

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Ashley Leff, nice to meet you! The ADN to BSN program expects that you already have an associate degree in Nursing. Same thing with the MSN program, the expectation is that you have either an ADN or BSN. I’m not sure if WGU offers an associate degree program. But I hope you continue your education in healthcare. It’s a great field to work in! 💗🙏🏼

[@seantran5011]

Im looking into doing my master and found your youtube vid.

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi seantran5011, nice to meet you! Awesome! I hope it helped. 🙏🏼

[@Mparrish16]

Did you have to take any pre requisites before applying to the program?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Mparrish16, nice to meet you! The pre-reqs I had were from my ADN Nursing program. When you apply and talk to a counselor they ask you for your transcripts and thats how they determine how many courses you’ll need to take.

[@noelmansfield8505]

Please, share a video on how to organize and write the MSN paper please❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Noel, nice to meet you! I can definitely do this. Hopefully by the end of this week.

[@noelmansfield8505]

@@Alyssa.Suarez Gahhh! Thank you! It’s what I’m most nervous about because it’s been 18 years since my last writing class! A million thanks!💕

[@BriaT96]

Hey love, first off congrats!!!!! I got my BSN in two months.. however I’m aiming for my MSN here in 2023, any tips???

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Bria, nice to meet you! That’s great! You go girl! 💪🏼 I recommend joining the cohorts in the courses. I feel that watching the videos/recordings offered in the cohorts helped me.

[@BriaT96]

@@Alyssa.Suarez thank you dear! I’ll keep you updated 💕

[@BriaT96]

Do you mind direct messaging me? I have a question about the program. I was wondering what classes would you recommend taking first and how many OA’s and PA’s? I got rid of my webcam after my BSN but now I’m wondering do I need to get another one lol

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

@@BriaT96 Yes, I can do that.

[@BriaT96]

@@Alyssa.Suarez thank you!!

[@lindseychoi]

Where did you work for the 90hours field experience requirement? Is it possible to work in my community hospital not the state where the school is located? Thank you in advance.

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

I completed my field experience by working at my place of employment (an acute care hospital working with COVID pts). This was during COVID times, so things may have changed. I also completed field experience by completing a virtual simulation through WGU. During my MSN, I met my field experience hours through research/reading articles/working on my Capstone. I live in CA and WGU is located in Utah and it wasn't a problem. I hope this helps.

[@amberangel8510]

hello! just wondering if this program is available in any state? also, was there any additional in person clinical hours required? Thanks, very helpful!!

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi there! Im in CA. I am not too sure about what other states are available with this program. This info may be available on their website. My in person clinical hours consisted of my work hours. My preceptor just needed to sign off my hours.

[@bestsleepingsounds9234]

Hi, congratulations, if I want to further my education as a CRNA is the school accredited

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi, best sleeping sounds, nice to meet you! The school is accredited. However, I’m not sure what they offer in terms of the CRNA. That would be a good question for a WGU Counselor or rep.

[@143ilovyu]

Did you have to do clinical hours for either program?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Tom, nice to meet you! Yes, but the clinical hours aren’t a typical “clinical” day. It’s more like a paper trail of clinical time/patient care time.

[@uzchris7493]

please could you help elaborate more on clinical time- can I present days I work in hospital or Nursing home as my clinical time/patient care time. thanks Uz@@Alyssa.Suarez

[@craigspencer4306]

In the wgu accelerated group, they said you can't finish no faster than the 2.5 Years because of the clinical. They said you can accelerate the course work only. How did you do it In 6 months with clinical or are they wrong?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Craig, nice to meet you! I’m not sure who you spoke with. I’ve had multiple comments with a similar story. I obtained my BSN during the pandemic so I’m not sure if that has anything to do with it. I worked with COVID patients for my “clinicals”.

[@manishamgr303]

Hi Alyssa. Is it possible to get into and complete the RN to BSN program online while staying overseas? What about the clinical placement? Is there any possibility for overseas nurse who just passed NCLEX? Please reply ..

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi there! This is a great question. I recommend you reach out to a WGU rep. I’m not sure of those details. The program is online, but for clinical placement a preceptor and site needs to be approved. Not sure how that works overseas.

[@manishamgr303]

@@Alyssa.Suarez okay. Thankyou

[@samanthatilford4707]

How many classes did you take in the 6 months for your BSN. I need 37 credits and want to see if that’s doable in 6months.

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Samantha, nice to meet you. I took all of my course required for the BSN program, which was 13 classes total. For the BSN program you are required to complete an Orientation, so technically 14 classes. These classes equal 37 credits.

[@christianstadler6099]

Is it regionally accredited?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

@@christianstadler6099 Hi Christian, nice to meet you. Yes! I’ve attached some info: www.wgu.edu/student-experience/learning/accreditation.html

[@jasonnomowa9488]

I started the Nursing Pre-licensure program about a month ago. From my starte date, I have 8 prerequisites. I finished my first 3 classes in roughly 6 weeks. I'm on class #4 which is "Health and Welness Through Nutritional Science". This class is a different beast! I'm hoping you might have a little insight on how to pass classes like this. It's 20+ chapters and I'm having a hard time how I'll possibly remember ever small micro-detail. When it comes to the objective assessment, what's going to be the best way, material, tips and tricks... ect to survive this course? Feels like I'd need half a year to pass this class lol

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi jasonnomowa9488, nice to meet you! I’m happy to hear you’ve already completed 3 classes! Keep up the good work! 👍🏼 I would have to look through my old notes. I’ll see what I’ve got. My recommendation is to join study groups/cohorts. I forget the name, but when you join you usually get additional info that will help you get through the class with less stress. Best of luck! 🙏🏼

[@jasonnomowa9488]

@@Alyssa.Suarez interesting. I didn't know there was study groups! It's that built into WGU or third party plateforms like Facebook? And thank you!

[@tracyhock4730]

The problem you are having is trying to memorize every little detail. In nursing school, you have to learn how to study for conceptual comprehension. Memorization doesn't necessarily help that much.

[@justinabenson7229]

DID you have ADN prior or you did the Pre-liscensure program?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi there! Yes, I had my ADN degree prior to starting.

[@marcz239]

Im in oregon they dont offer nursing here, super bummed bout that i really wanted to attend wgu

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi there! WGU is in Utah. The classes are all online. It may be worth reaching out to a WGU Rep to get more info about what is offered in your area.

[@melissaw33]

Im thinking WGU, but people say that might be an issue for becoming a nurse practitioner. Have you heard this?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi there! I haven’t heard much about the NP program.

[@isamoostache]

Did they have a graduation for you ? I’m looking into this school I already have my BSN and want to see how this program works for my MSN

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi there, nice to meet you! They offered a graduation but I chose to not attend. My husband & family threw me a surprise party. As I stated in the video I recommend WGU, but do what’s best for you.

[@gloriaflores6960]

I’m confused, you can just complete the classes as they come and just finish them? What about clinicals?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Gloria Flores, nice to meet you! I worked with my program mentor weekly. She allowed me to take a new course each time I completed a course. She had to open up the next class in order for me to start it. Clinicals for me may be different for clinicals today. I took my BSN during the pandemic. Not sure if the rules have changed. But I completed a virtual simulation and worked with COVID patients in order to complete clinical hours.

[@gloriaflores6960]

@@Alyssa.Suarez THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THE INFORMATION

[@christianstadler6099]

What education did you start with before going for that BSN?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

I had my ADN from a community college. I was already working as an RN so that gave me some experience/education as well.

[@jacobhutchinson332]

If you have no experience with a degree or career you want to earn, can you go right to WGU online and earn BA and MS degrees?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Jacob Hutchinson, nice to meet you! This is a great question for a WGU counselor. I'm not sure to me honest.

[@jacobhutchinson332]

@@Alyssa.Suarez I live on the eastern US coast and would online WGU be acceptable to help with my career and job search? And do you have an email I could posssibly contact the counselor?

[@jacobhutchinson332]

@@Alyssa.Suarez I’m interested in library science is that a program at WGU?

[@ebonya8629]

Do you have to have a Associate degree in Nursing prior to doing this program??

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Ebony, nice to meet you. That’s a good question. I want to say yes. When applying they ask you to provide your transcripts, RN license number, etc.

[@teraasrawahaeguru4246]

How can get transcript ? Can we request to board ?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

@@teraasrawahaeguru4246 Hi there, nice to meet you! If you already have a nursing degree (ADN or BSN) you’ll need to provide WGU with this information prior to starting the program. I recommend requesting transcripts for the nursing school/college you went to. The board won’t have a record of your transcripts.

[@shwetamerchant5356]

Do you need to do clinical? Can you upload more videos regarding life at WGU

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Shweta, nice to meet you. Yes, clinical are needed for both the BSN and MSN. However, it doesn’t necessarily involve me going to a clinical site. When I was working on my BSN degree, I was able to use the hours. I worked with Covid patients as my clinical hours. That may be different for those that are taking the program now. Also, for my MSN, my clinical work was my fieldwork for my capstone. Sure, I can work on uploading more videos in regards to WGU. 👍🏼

[@jessicawright605]

I want to do msn in education next Taking some time off

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi there! That’s great. Good idea, I’m sure taking time off will pay off in the long run. You do what works best for you! 🙏🏼

[@francescayounge5830]

Is it pass/ fail or grades system? Thank you and congratulations

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi francescayounge5830, nice to meet you! It is pass or fail. When you submit an assignment/ paper you are deemed "competent".

[@Jamila91100]

I am confused !!were you already an LPN ? Was that the reason it took you only 6 months for the BSN? I spoke to them and they said 2 years I will be starting with no nursing experience but a Bachelor in another field

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi Fatima, nice to meet you! When starting WGU I already had my ADN/RN license and was working FT. It only took me 6 months because I worked really hard and didn’t want to pay more than I needed to. I’m not sure how that work having a Bachelor’s in another field.

[@mztata4u]

In the MSN program what is the average length of papers ? And are there exams also in that program ?

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi mztata4u, nice to meet you! I’ll have to double check and see how many pages my Capstone was. I believe I did another video in regards to the Capstone, and how exams are proctored.

[@mztata4u]

@alyssa_msn yes , I am trying to decide between WGU and United States University which is very reasonable also.

[@rgraf7]

Hi I'm Robert. I was curious Alyssa how you could get an MSN in 6 months when my enrollment counselor is saying it can be done in 1 year but not sooner. Sorry but I'm lost on this. Thank you, in advance.

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

Hi rgraf7, nice to meet you! I’m not sure what enrollment counselor you talked to but as I said in the video, it is possible to complete your MSN in 6 months. I don’t know why they would say “it can be done in 1 year, but no sooner”?! Unless they changed something I’m not aware of. I completed both my BSN in 6 months & my MSN in 6 months. Maybe see if you can speak with another enrollment counselor?!

[@rgraf7]

@@Alyssa.Suarez Hi Alyssa, thanks for your comment and I think you are giving good advice. I was talking to the senior enrollment advisor for UNDERGRAD and I think I need to find the equivalent for GRAD level. I think that is the source of my problem. I don't mean to be negative, but I think there is a very dis-jointedness at WGU. When you ask for help from someone else they don't really want to do it !! at least lately it seems. Lately they are changing the program requirements without notice for the BSN. These are warning flags unforunately, and again I'm just conveying info. I am glad you got through during a stable time there!! Congratulations! Robert

[@Alyssa.Suarez]

@@rgraf7 Hi there, thanks for letting me know this. I’m sorry your experiencing this. My experience with WGU has been good, but as you mentioned maybe they’ve made some recent changes. Best of luck in all you future endeavors!