MSN school?

[FLAgal14]

Does it matter where you get your MSN from in terms of employment? Is this a factor when trying to get a job? I'm trying to limit the amount of loans I would take out to get a MSN as I'm already in quite a bit of student loan debt - sorry if this has already been asked but I'm just trying to plan out the steps towards getting a MSN.

Thanks

[carachel2]

There are many great MSN programs out there...you don't have to do an ivy league school (although they are great !). You can also go to school and not graduate in debt. I am taking one class a semester and will graduate with zilch debt, so it can be done.

[llg, PhD, RN]

It doesn't usually matter very much -- assuming that the school you choose is a reputable one and that your program prepares you well for the type of jobs you are seeking.

However, be careful about "diploma mills" and new programs starting up in schools that have not had strong nursing programs in the past. Some of those programs are pretty weak and/or have bad reputations -- and employers may not be anxious to hire someone from such a school.

A well-established program at a state school with a good reputation may be relatively inexpensive -- and be wonderful (or horrible). The expensive private school just starting a program may be horrible (or wonderful). Choose the one with a good reputation within the local nursing community.

llg