ADN vs Diploma

[paujos]

I received an acceptance packet for Northampton Community College for their ADN Program. Meanwhile, I received an email that I was accepted into St. Luke's School of Nursing. It is a diploma program, but you take the NCLEX. Both schools have great programs. One I would go 20 months straight through. The other would be 4 semesters. I would graduate in May/2017 regardless. I already have my AA in General Studies, so at the Community College, would just be taking the nursing classes. St. Luke's would be more rigorous, but at the same time, would I learn more. I have no clue at which to take. Any input would be appreciated. I only have a week to decide. Thank you!

[PapaBearRN, BSN]

I've always heard that diploma programs train you better in your clinical skills but for nursing to be recognized as a profession we must move away from the diploma and even ADN programs and make the minimum amount of education to become an RN a BSN.

[paujos]

I was at work, but thank you all for your advice! It means a lot. I got my answer tonight at work. I ran into a woman I know who is a nurse, and she said hands down, St. Luke's. She said they're not even comparable when it comes to quality. I realize I will need my BSN. St. Luke's and Moravian work together for a RN-BSN Program. St. Luke's is growing so rapidly, and have clinics popping up all over. I feel confident that I will find work. I have family in Florida, and their hospitals will only hire BSN's. Our local Lehigh Valley Hospital won't hire ADN's anymore due to their Magnet Status. Thank you again!!