[MissGwen]

Hello,

Long time reader, first time poster! Love this site. I have some issues concerning two different LPN programs. I have a BS in Psychology, but the job market is terrible. So, nursing is the way to go for me.

I have been accepted into Brown Mackie's LPN program, but I am concerned about the cost. Based on my calculations, the tuition by itself will be around $23K. I am also concerned about a few other things as well.

From what I can gather the tuition at Galen is about $14K. Galen has full approval status from the KY Board of Nursing, while Brown Mackie has conditional approval status. What exactly is conditional approval status about?

If you have experience with either of these programs, please post.

Thank you.

Gwen

[BBFRN]

Brown-Mackie's conditional status has to do with their low NCLEX pass rates. Galen's LPN program has full approval status, but their RN program does not at this time. But- their RN program is newer, and they're still working out some of the kinks. They have a new dean, and are working toward NLN accreditation.

I'm partial to Galen, because I used to teach clinicals there. They have some really good and dedicated instructors there. They also offer a 2 year RN (ASN) program, where you get your LPN in year 1, and then your RN in year 2. You'll have more opportunities to do clinicals in area hospitals there, too.

[MissGwen]

Actually, Brown Mackie had a 100% pass rate on the NCLEX. The program is pretty new from what I know. The first published pass rates for them are from 2007. According to KY Board of Nursing's website, Galen has full approval for both LPN and RN.

I am going to call the KYBON and ask them about the difference between approval statuses. Will report back.


G

[BBFRN]

Those weren't the stats on the BON letter that they send out to KY nurses quarterly. FYI: you might have better luck reaching somebody there if you email them. It can be hard to reach them by phone for some reason. Good luck in your decision, and I commend you for searching out info on the schools before you decide. Good job!

[MissGwen]

I called and got through on the first try. The differences were explained to me in this manner:

1. Developmental - School is getting program organized,etc.

2. Initial - Given until first class takes boards. Then if satisfactory, full is given.

3. Conditional - Given when program is given notice of changes,etc. that need to be made.

4. Full - Well, we did not get that far, but I am sure that is the best to have.

Some of this is not word for word. I cannot read my own handwriting most of the time. LOL My main concern was conditional status. The others were pretty much self-explanatory.

She did say BM was given conditional because their program administrator had things he or she was going to implement, but they left and the new administrator has not been there long enough yet.

I am not familar with KY Nurses Quarterly. Will check to see if I can find that.

Thanks.
g

[BBFRN]

http://kbn.ky.gov/NR/rdonlyres/EB713...0/con_sp08.pdf

Here you go. Page 16 lists the nursing program status changes. Duh- I should've posted this in the first place (sorry about that).

[MissGwen]

I'm not sure why, but that file will not open for me.

Wait! It worked! That looks like a nice little publication. Anyway, I am going to go to BM. It is time to get this started.


g

[BBFRN]

Good luck to you in nursing school, and welcome to Allnurses .

[MrsTatorspon]

Hello, I'm a BMC (week away from graduating) student in the LPN program. I'm just completing my 120 hour preceptor. I would like to correct the above user who stated "BMC had a LOW PASS RATE." This is false information and have no clue where this person got this info! Currently BMC has had 121 students take NCLEX since 2007 and only ONE student has failed! We received a letter to our PN Program from KY Board of Nursing & KY Governor about how well BMC is doing in this program. Its an excellent program, the teachers are wonderful and really care about you! Good luck in your choices!

[BBFRN]

Originally Posted by MrsTatorspon

I would like to correct the above user who stated "BMC had a LOW PASS RATE." This is false information and have no clue where this person got this info!

You are correct- I believe MsGwen already cleared that up though.