Need some advice on education options PLEASE!

Hi All,

I've just joined this forum as I have an interest in pursuing nursing as a second career.
I have a BSc in Computer Science but a career in health care has been an interest of mine for a while. In the past the time and $$ investment required to go back to school has stopped me from taking the plunge, but I'm 47 and at a stage in my life where I need a change.

I've been researching my options here in AZ and am hoping you kind people here can give me some information/advice.

I already have a BSc, but graduated more than 20 years ago from a Canadian University. I don't know how much of that work can be applied to my nursing degree so, I really don't have any of the pre-reqs. But I know I have the skills and abilities to get them.

I've been out of work for a while and want to get myself re-trained and back into the workforce doing something that makes a difference ASAP.

So, here are my questions...

1. Can anyone recommend any good programs - accelerated preferably - for people like me with a previous degree. I noted UofA has a program. How good is it? Are there others? What is the waiting list like?

2. Because I don't have the pre-reqs, can anyone recommend the best (fastest, least cost) ways to get them or recommend a program that doesn't require them (includes them)? I've heard Chemberlain does?

3. Realistically, what am I looking at in terms of a time and $$ commitment - it seems to vary widely. Minimizing both of those is my goal - along with getting into a good program! (not asing for much!

4. So, cost is a concern but so is time (especially at 47! - what are the wait lists like and which programs have the shortest?

4. I am Canadian. I moved here (AZ) because of my (ex) husband. Unfortunately, we have split and I don't have a green card (long story - very complicated process - lots of red tape). However I do love it here and would like to stay if i can. I realize this may affect the progam I can attend, the costs and perhaps other things but I have no idea how. How do I find out?

5. Would there be any financial assistance to someone in my situation? Sponsorships? I am willing to commit to working for my sponsor after if that will create a win for us both.

6. Finally, can you direct me to any good resources to help me through this process? I've found most of the "information" web sites are just paid ad sites that don't have complete information about all the schools/programs out there.

Thanks in advance for your help!