FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE RN PROGRAMS 

Why should I choose UD for my RN-BSN/MSN degree?

The Univeristy of Delaware is a quality higher education university, which offers dedicated staff for online students, as well as flexible scheduling of classes.

What is the UD Online delivery system?

UD Online students access their courses on the Web through an easy-to-use course management system. The University of Delaware uses Sakai as the primary course management tool to deliver UD Online courses. Courses may include all or some of the following instructional delivery methods: videostreamed class lectures, video clips, audio components, guided readings, chatrooms, interactive web activities, and threaded discussions. In addition, instructors are available to assist students, according to their course policy, in person, via e-mail, or by phone. A small number of courses require scheduled virtual class meetings using a microphone and headset, videoconferencing, or are completely self-directed. These course exceptions are indicated in the course description. Students may view online course demonstrations at www.udel.edu/UMS/itv/demo

What are the minimum computer skills needed for success in this program?

If you are not familiar with any of the terms below and/or do not have the knowledge or skills listed below, we recommend you update your computer skills prior to registering for this program. Skills: Web browsing, navigating a website, e-mail (including sending/receiving attachments), Microsoft Word, RealPlayer and Adobe (PDF).

For more tips on taking a UD Online Course visit:
http://www.pcs.udel.edu/udonline/info/tips.html

Are University of Delaware Nursing Programs accredited?

All undergraduate and graduate nursing programs are fully accredited by the National League of Nursing Accrediting Commission and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

When should I formally apply (matriculate) to the program?

In general, any RN who plans to complete all non-nursing and nursing course work with UD Online, should apply at the start of the program. Benefits to early application include: personal advisement; financial aid availability; priority course seating; and prerequisite flexibility. RNs or student RNs may take non-nursing courses at their respective community college, but must formally apply and be admitted prior to starting any nursing course at the University of Delaware.

Can I transfer credits for courses taken at other accredited institutions of higher education?

The University accepts baccalaureate credits from institutions that are fully accredited by the appropriate accrediting association. Credits completed with a grade of “C” or higher, must be applicable to a degree program offered by the University. Please see the link below for the online UD Transfer Matrix. Non-matriculated students can use this online tool to verify transfer ability of community college courses. If your course or school is not listed, please contact the School of Nursing at (302) 831-1253 for transfer credit advisement. Note: Transfer students are required to complete their last 30 credits through the University of Delaware .

UD Transfer Credit Equivalency Search Website: http://primus.nss.udel.edu/transfercredit/index.action

What if I previously attended the University of Delaware?

If your GPA was below a 2.0, you will need academic renewal. The academic catalog states when a student leaves the University and later applies for admission or readmission, he or she may wish to enter with a 'clean slate.' A student who returns to the University after a separation of at least five calendar years is eligible for academic renewal, if the student earns a "C" or better in each course for 12 semester hours after returning to the University. In such cases, grades from previously taken courses are not included in the calculation of the GPA. If you require academic renewal contact the School of Nursing at (302) 831-1253.

Can I obtain credit for life/work experience?

Yes. The University of Delaware allows 30 credits for all currently licensed RNs (in lieu of transferring individual nursing courses from previous schooling). UD does not allow college credits for nursing certifications.

Does the University of Delaware accept CLEP Exam Credits from other institutions?

No.

What about registration? When does that take place?

Registration opens up approximately 2 months prior to the start of each semester/session. Registration information is available through the UD Online office. Students can attend year round on a full-time or part-time basis.

How much does it cost to take a course in the UD Online format?

A current fee schedule for courses (worksite and non-site individual rates) is available on the UD Online web site. Fees are subject to change.

What is the Delaware residency requirement to receive the in-state tuition rate?

Contact the Registrar's Office [phone (302) 831-3121] for a description of the residency requirement or visit: http://www.udel.edu/registrar/residncy.html

Is financial aid available for this program?

Yes. Please visit the Scholarships and Financial Aid Office link below:
http://www.udel.edu/finaid/

Is financial aid available to part-time students?

Qualified part-time matriculated students may be eligible for financial aid including student loans. For more information, call 1-800-597-1444, or email UD-online@udel.edu, and you will be connected with the financial aid counselor at the ACCESS Center.

My agency is not an official UD Online Worksite; can I still participate?

Becoming a participating site is a simple process-a human resources professional, training coordinator, or other administrator at the site must agree to administer student exams according to UD Online proctor guidelines and complete a UD Online Site Participation Agreement Form . If your agency chooses not to become a worksite, contact Anne DeCaire at aderb@udel.edu to discuss further options and for additional information about becoming a participating worksite.

How many times do I need to come to the Newark campus?

RN to BSN students must attend two 1-credit on-campus weekend courses (NURS 335, NURS 450). RN to MSN students must attend one 1-credit on-campus weekend course (NURS335). All other nursing courses are available in a distance learning format. In addition, non-nursing support courses are available via the distance delivery system.

Who teaches the UD online courses?

All UD online nursing courses are taught by UD campus nursing faculty. All nursing faculty are educated with a minimum of a master's degree and most hold a doctoral degree.

What about questions I may have regarding course work? How do I contact the appropriate professor?

After registering for a course, you will receive access to an online course syllabus listing the name, phone, fax numbers and e-mail address of the professor. We encourage frequent interaction using the most accessible and convenient means of communication.

How do I get textbooks?

You will receive a textbook order form with your course registration materials. Textbooks may be ordered online, fax, phone or mail for direct mailing to your home. In order to see what textbooks are required before receiving the course registration materials click here. For more instructions visit the UD Online website at http://www.pcs.udel.edu/info/textbooks.html

What about library resources?

Orientation to the Morris Library on the Newark campus is a component of NURS 335, the first on-campus weekend course.