For the last 3 years I have been completing all of my pre-reqs for nursing school. I took a year off after having a baby and now I'm trying to jump back in. I have Chem and Math left to take. I know that most science courses expire after 5 years and the deadline is getting close. I have looked into a few schools in the Chicagoland area and most have waiting lists or extensive requirements. I spoke with Chamberlain and they are willing to accept me right away but it comes with a hefty cost. I'm not sure what to do. Do I try to find an ADN program? Just go for Chamberlain and rack up crazy amounts of loans? Do I have other options? We are currently living on one income and this decision is important not only for me, but for my family.

My suggestion is go for your associates degree. That way, you can work as a nurse, then get your bachelors degree, while you work. Many jobs offer tuition reimbursement to their employees.

I agree! Go for the ADN. For profit schools are not the best route, due to the high costs and I'm not even sure if they are officially established yet. They seem kind of sketchy and they don't get you to your highest potential

Good day, ClaudetteGee:

While I agree BSN should be on the bucket list, I agree with the others about the AD. That's the route I'm taking... get my associate, take and hopefully pass NCLEX, then job, then BSN.

Thank you.

The cost to retake a class or two at the community college is going to be far less than those hefty loans. Plus, your credits may not transfer if you decide to further your education at some point down the road. Be sure to look at NCLEX passage rates too; that degree is useless if you can't pass the exam.

Thank you all for your responses! It has shed some light on what I will decide. I am currently looking into ADN programs in my area.