Ambivalence about Simmons FNP

[gospa]

Hi all

Just wanting thoughts on some of my concerns. It appears to be one of the most prestigious and well-organized programs you could however I'm becoming more concerned at the extreme heavy load needed to pass the program. I'm starting the part time program in a few weeks. I'm taking a bridge course now. First, the "part-time" program is completed in two years. It's 2-3 classes a term plus clinicals in the latter part of the program. People I know in the program are spending 50+ hours a week studying, writing papers and preparing for class and some are failing out or barely passing the 83 average required to pass each class.

I was talking to a Dr the other day I work with and told her that you must make an 83 in every class and she said that is more stringent than her medical school and she couldn't believe it! Essentially you have to get 9 out of every 10 questions correct in a very challenging program. It seems daunting and unlikely that I'll always get 9 out of every 10 questions correct on average.

Also, Simmons does not allow you to take classes at your own pace. Full time is 1.5 years, part time is 2 years. For those of you who have are or have completed Simmons, how did you balance the heavy time investment with life and work. I work three 12-hour shifts a week and know that I will have to cut back to part-time or per diem as the program moves along. I wish I could take the classes as I could. Regis College, for instance, gives you 7 years (last I knew) to complete the curriculum.

I'm going to take it one day at a time. I really like not having to physically attend class and watching the classes live. What are your experiences and advice?

Thanks