I just received a letter of acceptance from our local CC to begin their Nursing program this fall.
Problem is: Last December I was accepted into a BSN program at the local state college's fall Nursing program.
I am confused which one I should go for and need to make up my mind ASAP so someone else can use my spot. There are benefits to both. I have a previous AS degree in Radiologic Technology, so the BSN would be great for me.
If I go with the AS degree, I will be working as a Nurse two years sooner and will have a much lower Stafford loan to pay off after graduation. Then I figure I could do an online BSN program and possibly get tuition reimbursement.
I am so thrilled to have been accepted to both programs. Any guidance, thoughts or suggestions would be much appreciated.
Specializes in School, Camp, Hospice, Critical Care.
I was in a very similar situation last year: already have a BA, accepted into the BSN program at a private college (would take 6 semesters to complete at this particular college, even with my BA) and the ADN program at the local tech (would take 4 semesters to complete).
The ADN won out because the total tuition was $44,000 lower (!) and the NCLEX pass rate was 10% higher than the BSN program.
I work at a hospital now, and they said they'd foot the bill for RN-to-BSN (with on-site instructors from the Univ of NH) if I continue to work for them--it would take me two additional years part-time--or--they'll do tuition reimbursement for me to go to UMass (45 minute commute) and get my MSN (probably three years part-time).
Just seems like a whole lot better deal to pay less for the RN, get experience, and have someone else foot the bill for the advanced degree!
Thanks for everyone's help and advice. After much thought, I have decided to go with the A.S. degree. I know I will go on for my B.S. (probably online), but for now, I need to be more available for my three boys.
I really think I am making the right decision for me and my family. I love school, so I have no doubt about an advanced degree when my boys are alittle older.
JudithL_in_NH
355 Posts
I was in a very similar situation last year: already have a BA, accepted into the BSN program at a private college (would take 6 semesters to complete at this particular college, even with my BA) and the ADN program at the local tech (would take 4 semesters to complete).
The ADN won out because the total tuition was $44,000 lower (!) and the NCLEX pass rate was 10% higher than the BSN program.
I work at a hospital now, and they said they'd foot the bill for RN-to-BSN (with on-site instructors from the Univ of NH) if I continue to work for them--it would take me two additional years part-time--or--they'll do tuition reimbursement for me to go to UMass (45 minute commute) and get my MSN (probably three years part-time).
Just seems like a whole lot better deal to pay less for the RN, get experience, and have someone else foot the bill for the advanced degree!