Most messages that I
receive from individuals are a registered nurses who want to advance their career
and education with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and ask me a
number of questions about WGU’s BSN. If you’re one of them, this post is for
you. It is a cheat sheet specially created for my valuable readers like you.
Introduction
WGU is a nonprofit,
accredited university that offers competency-based education, which means you
can progress through courses at your own pace by demonstrating what you know
and can do. You can also transfer up to 90 credits from your previous nursing
education and experience, which can save you time and money. WGU’s RN-to-BSN
program is evidence-based and aligned with the Essentials of Baccalaureate
Education for Professional Nursing Practice from the American Association of
Colleges and Nursing (AACN). It covers topics such as research, theory,
leadership, community health, healthcare policy, therapeutic interventions, and
current trends in healthcare.
However, as with any online program, WGU’s self-paced RN-to-BSN program also requires motivation and time management skills to succeed. You will need to create your own schedule, set your own goals, and manage your own learning. You will also need to complete 65 hours of field work in a community setting as part of the program requirements. To help you navigate this challenging but rewarding journey, I have compiled some tips based on what I learned from the transcript of a successful WGU RN-to-BSN graduate. Here they are:
TIP 1: Create a schedule and stick to it
Treat each week like a
regular course, blocking out set times to read, study, and work on assignments.
Use a planner or calendar to keep track of deadlines and milestones. Try to be
consistent with your study routine and avoid distractions.
TIP 2: Take it one course at a time
Focus on mastering one
class before moving on so you don’t get overwhelmed juggling multiple demanding
courses. Review the course materials carefully and use the learning resources
provided by WGU. Take advantage of the pre-assessments and practice tests to
gauge your readiness for the final assessments.
TIP 3: Do the easy classes first
Start with quicker
courses like Nutrition or Health Assessment to build momentum before tackling
tougher ones like Biochemistry or Evidence-Based Practice. This will help you
boost your confidence and motivation as you see yourself progressing through
the program.
TIP 4: Give yourself paper writing time
Set aside blocks for
researching, writing, and revising papers. Break projects down into manageable
chunks. Follow the rubrics and instructions carefully and use the writing
center for feedback and support. Use credible sources and cite them properly
using APA format.
TIP 5: Use course mentors
These are invaluable!
Meet with them regularly for guidance as you would with on-campus professors.
They can help you clarify concepts, answer questions, provide tips, and offer
encouragement. They can also connect you with other students who are taking the
same course or have completed it.
TIP 6: Find a study buddy
Connect online with a
classmate for motivation and support. You may even be able to help each other
with assignments or share notes. You can also join online forums or social
media groups where you can interact with other WGU RN-to-BSN students and
alumni.
TIP 7: Take good notes
Stay organized with study
guides, lecture notes, flashcards, etc. You’ll need to compile and understand a
lot of information from various sources. Use different methods to review and
reinforce your learning, such as summarizing, outlining, highlighting,
quizzing, etc.
TIP 8: Plan ahead for field work
Get an early start on
scheduling your 65 hours of community health experience. Find a suitable site
that meets WGU’s criteria and secure a preceptor who has a BSN degree or
higher. Complete the required paperwork and submit it to WGU for approval.
Prepare for your field work by reviewing the objectives and expectations of the
course.
TIP 9: Reward yourself for milestones
Celebrate finishing
assessments and papers. Keep motivated towards the end goal of becoming an
RN-BSN! Recognize your achievements and treat yourself to something you enjoy,
such as a movie night, a spa day, or a dinner out.
The key is staying regimented, getting support when needed, and dividing projects into smaller steps. Plan ahead, break things down, and don’t be afraid to lean on your mentors.
With commitment and smart time management, you can leverage the flexibility of WGU’s self-paced model to efficiently achieve your BSN. You’ve got this!
