Thoughts on The College Network...

Nursing Students Online Learning

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I am graduating October 1st (LPN) and hope to sit for my boards and have my license before the end of November, pretty possible here in Ohio. Anyway, I want to do EC classes for my RN. I have heard good things and bad things about going just through EC and good things and bad things about going through The College Network. A fellow student just had a College Network rep come to her home and explain things to her. I am considering doing the same so that my husband can hear it all at the same time I do and we can make a decision together. My question is...What do you think about The College Network?? Good or bad...I really love this site and value the opinons given on here. Thank you all in advance! :D

I had an appointment this morning with a rep from TCN, which I cancelled after hearing about being able to buy TNC books on eBay. The way I understand this is that after I get the material down, I challange the class.

However, I am confused about some things which I hope someone can clear up for me.

What is a NC test? And what does the PNCE fee involve? Also, how does CLEP figure in? Do I have to go through Excelsior to take tests, or can I challage classes at the local college?

Sorry to ask naive questions, just trying to make it on a non-existant income. Thanks to all who take the time to answer.

Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.
What is a NC test? And what does the PNCE fee involve? Also, how does CLEP figure in? Do I have to go through Excelsior to take tests, or can I challage classes at the local college?

NC = nursing concepts. Those were the titles of the tests under the old curriculum (NC1, NC2, etc.). Now they're different titles, but basically the same stuff.

CPNE = Clinical Performance in Nursing Examination. This is the final, 8-credit clinical examination that comes at the end of the nursing program. It is pass/fail, and kinda brutal, stress-wise. It costs $1900. Bear in mind, though, that it's 8 credits, so it's less than $300 per credit.

There are a few CLEP exams that you can take for which Excelsior will give you credit. I did the Human Growth and Development CLEP in lieu of Excelsior's Lifespan Developmental Psychology, for example.

Your best bet at this point to move forward is to pay the $75 Excelsior application fee and let them evaluate your transcripts and tell you what you'll need to do their program. Are you already an LVN? If not, you'll have to complete that first, or be a paramedic, RT, or have finished 50% of a nursing program already.

Just went through the pinning ceremony:yeah:

A few of my fellow students and myself are looking for a way to save money and go on to get our RN's. I am concerned after reading one of your posts about California not accepting the Excelsior RN degree. Is there another avenue for us?

Thanks Lunah!

Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.

Yeah, EC is a no-go in Cali. But I believe the ISU LPN-RN might work for you:

http://www1.indstate.edu/nursing/programs/bs/lpn-bs/lpn-bs.htm

chaxanmom can probably give you the lowdown on that program! :)

Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.
Just went through the pinning ceremony:yeah:

Oh, and congrats!!!! :)

Yeah, EC is a no-go in Cali. But I believe the ISU LPN-RN might work for you:

http://www1.indstate.edu/nursing/programs/bs/lpn-bs/lpn-bs.htm

chaxanmom can probably give you the lowdown on that program! :)

Yep, ISU is awesome. Read the information on their site and the big ol' long thread about ISU first though. Almost everything is answered on there. It's a long read but tons of info so its worth it. :D

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