[Amxixi29]

Hello everyone! I am currently researching on Chicago area schools that offer a graduate program for NP. I am still learning more about what each NP specialty entails (FNP? Adult? Acute Care?). Basically I have no idea what I would like to focus on in the future. Is there anyone who is currently enrolled in a MSN program in the Chicago area...or has graduated from one...and can share their opinions or experiences? Even if you are not an NP or may have heard from others their thoughts on specific programs? Some schools that I am looking into are Rush, UIC, and Loyola just to name a few. Any input would be greatly appreciated =)

[indecisiveRN]

I'm currently in the FNP program at NIU (in DeKalb), but looking into ACNP at the three you mentioned. All three are very highly ranked NP programs. Personally, I'm not applying to Rush because the total cost ends up being around $63K, and I just can't see paying that much. I know someone who started her ACNP at UIC and then transferred to Loyola. She thought UIC was too research-based for her and ended up really liking Loyola's program. A nurse I work with just applied at UIC, and was told that they got 500 applications for 40 ACNP spots. Their whole MSN program is very competitive. Anyway, my two cents. Hope it helps.

[oldiebutgoodie]

Originally Posted by Amagine29

Hello everyone! I am currently researching on Chicago area schools that offer a graduate program for NP. I am still learning more about what each NP specialty entails (FNP? Adult? Acute Care?). Basically I have no idea what I would like to focus on in the future. Is there anyone who is currently enrolled in a MSN program in the Chicago area...or has graduated from one...and can share their opinions or experiences? Even if you are not an NP or may have heard from others their thoughts on specific programs? Some schools that I am looking into are Rush, UIC, and Loyola just to name a few. Any input would be greatly appreciated =)

I am currently in Rush U's MSN program. Started as an Acute Care NP, but just switched to Med-Surg CNs. Rush has a lot of options in their MSN program. Many of the classes are online, but there are classroom-based classes as well. Some of the teachers are awesome . A few are not so awesome. My advisor has been great.

One advantage of Rush is that they either totally arrange or help to arrange your clinical. Some people going to other schools have to find their own preceptors, which can be a PITA. Rush's nursing school is just across the street from the hospital, so there is a lot of collaborative practice going on.

I went to Rush for my BSN, so I pretty much know what they expect. Some of the students new to the program were kind of surprised by the extent of the content, but I was used to it.

Hope this helps,
Oldiebutgoodie

[SarasotaRN2b]

Actually, I was looking at the Rush U. program and I'm pretty impressed. I'm interested in the NNP which they offer and it's also available online.

Oldiebutgoodie, keep in touch with how your program is proceeding.

Kris