Accreditation super important?

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I'm at an impass right now. I have to work full time to support my family but want to go to nursing school. I have not found many that offer night or weekend courses that offer nln/ccne accredited. How important is that accreditation? Would I hinder my job search?

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Specializes in LTC, OB/GYN, Special needs.

I am in the same position. I too must work full time. I am going to a local community college that is nln accredited. I found several other school around that are just nursing however they are NOT accredited and they cost about 3x as much. From what I have read and hear from several nurse friends, the nurses that go to non accredited schools are not thought as highly of and are last to be looked at for jobs over an accredited school.

I found for me the nln school in my area happens to offer night and weekend classes as well so it worked out best for me .

I would say someone who passes the NCLEX-RN regardless of the school is qualified, but that's just me :-)

Best of luck in which ever you choose!

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Go to the accredited school.

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Specializes in PICU, Sedation/Radiology, PACU.

Here's a great article recently written by one of AllNurses' moderators and a great contributor:

https://allnurses.com/general-nursing-student/difference-between-approval-753939.html

In short, yes, accreditation is important for many reasons. Primarily- 1. Many graduate schools or BSN programs require that you obtained your initial degree at an accredited school in order to be eligible for their program. 2. Many hospitals/employers require that you graduated from a school that is accredited by either the CCNE or NLN.

You will still be able to graduate and sit for NCLEX if you go to a non-accredited school- provided the program is approved by your state BON. However, you might be seriously hindered when job searching or trying to further your education.

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Specializes in ER, progressive care.

Accreditation is extremely import because most, if not all, potential employers require that you have graduated from an accredited nursing program.

I would do yourself a favor and go to an accredited school to save yourself a potential big headache when you start searching for jobs.

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Specializes in CMSRN.

It is RIDICULOUSLY important. Acute care facilities do NOT look at you the same if you do not go to an accredited institution. If you want to move to another state, you may not be able to transfer your license. There are a lot of things to consider and if you are serious about nursing you absolutely want to start it out right by going to an accredited school. Good luck!

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It is RIDICULOUSLY important. Acute care facilities do NOT look at you the same if you do not go to an accredited institution. If you want to move to another state, you may not be able to transfer your license. There are a lot of things to consider and if you are serious about nursing you absolutely want to start it out right by going to an accredited school. Good luck!

Right now nursing is feeling like a pipe dream. I am trying to find a more flexible job without losing half my pay and ny wife is looking. If we can get the job thing settled going to school shouldnt be a problem

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