Hi. I have been accepted into 3 different programs and I haven't made up my mind yet which one to pursue. My long-term goal is to be able to work as an RN (pedia, L&D, neonatal) and teach part-time. I have a Bachelor's degree already so this will be my 2nd degree. Here are the choices:
1. Christ School of Nursing - ASN
Cost- $23,000
Start - Aug 2011
Duration- 2 yrs
Pros- flexibility, not as intensive
Cons- will take me longer to reach my goal (to teach)
2. Xavier Univ - MSN
Cost- $45,000
Duration - 20 mos
Start - August 2011
Pros- will get me closer to my goal (once I get experience working bedside)
Cons- very expensive and intensive
3. Univ of Cincinnati
Cost- $25,000
Start- Jan 2012
Duration - 15 mos
Pros--great program and shorter too
Cons--intensive
I received my award letter for financial aid from XU this week and they granted me enough aid (including Grad Plus Loans) to pay for the program and some living expenses. I am leaning towards it but I don't want to get stuck paying this much student loan especially if I end up being unemployed for a while after graduation considering how the economy is going. Any insights, suggestions and recommendations will be very much appreciated. Thank you so much!
