I will be starting my first semester of nursing school on May 3rd. I have heard conflicting reports on how intense the program is... The nursing program itself is 7 credits hours and deemed 'full-time' due to the dedication required by students. I must take an extra course because I was accepted into the program before I had the chance to take it. That brings me up to 10 credit hours.
Unfortunately, I go to a private school and therefore require financial aid, so I must remain vested in 12 credit hours. Tagging on one more class, I am up to 13 credit hours my first semester of nursing school - that is a one credit shy of DOUBLE the program load itself.
My question to YOU ... based on your experience, wherever you went to school - do you recommend taking any more more than what is required your first semester of nursing school? I know it sounds like a no-brainer, but I would be working on my bachelors at the same time, and really want to know what you have all done... because I am at a loss and have no idea what I am getting myself into course load or clinical wise this first semester.
I have taken all pre-req courses for the program. You cannot get into the program without completing all maths, sciences, psychs, etc.
The Nursing program itself if named 7 credit hours, but when you look at my block schedule of how long I am in class and clinicals at the hospital, it is over 23 hours of instruction for the program alone ... NOT including the religion course I must take.
Sounds like a private catholic college I went to in nY:) Many of us have done it successfully with other jobs and children. You won't be able to give 100% all the time to each of your obligations, but you will learn to be proficient in time management if you are to accomplish this. Only a lucky few are able to go part time through nursing with no obligations.
It will be challenging, but can be done. 13 credit hours was the load I carried with three young children at home, one born just before nursing school started, it can be done... but you'll be tired;) It's worth it IMHO
brookeycookie
19 Posts
I have taken all pre-req courses for the program. You cannot get into the program without completing all maths, sciences, psychs, etc.
The Nursing program itself if named 7 credit hours, but when you look at my block schedule of how long I am in class and clinicals at the hospital, it is over 23 hours of instruction for the program alone ... NOT including the religion course I must take.