Abstract
- To assist nurses in achieving advanced degrees, institutions of higher learning have developed flexible online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs. While a valuable and viable option to degree completion, online programs create challenges that impact student success. This qualitative pilot study describes challenges experienced by 7 nurses enrolled in, or recently graduated, from an MSN program. Technology, scheduling, group behaviors, faculty, curriculum and personal barriers emerged as themes. Future research that includes multiple sites and MSN concentrations is warranted to better explore these issues and seek to identify ways to create a community of inquiry for student success