American-born student considering attending nursing school in the Philippines

[HelpM376]

I am considering attending nursing school in the Philippines as a second or third option because of the long waiting lists to get in nursing schools in my area. I have read articles that state that nursing education in the Philippines is geared more to churning out unspecialized floor nurses rather than specialized nurses. Is there any truth to this statement? The school I am considering in the Philippines offers a BSN and I plan on going for an MSN. I am worried that the education I would receive in the Philippines would not adequately prepare me for my educational goals. Are my worries unfounded?

[MB37]

There are several Filipino students who post here, hopefully they can tell you more about he curriculum. Have you really thoroughly investigated this though? If you have, and you have good reasons for wanting to earn your degree abroad, maybe family from there or something, then look into it by all means. If you're just trying to avoid a waiting list though, why don't you look in other states first? In FL, there are no waiting lists for BSN programs. Same in Lousiana. I haven't looked into any other states, but I don't know if I've ever heard of a BSN program with a wait. While there are exceptions, typically the wait lists and lotteries are for programs that are less competitive, which gives some students who maybe got crappy grades 10 years ago a chance to go that they otherwise wouldn't have. Have you investigated the requirements for a student visa? Have you figured out how you'll pay for school and living expenses when your visa status may not allow you to find a job? My husband and I are considering taking an international transfer after I graduate, and trust me, there's a TON of paperwork and legal issues involved with moving out of the country. It's different for anywhere you might want to go. You know your own situation best,and maybe you have a ton of family there and a place to stay - moving internationally because schools "in your area" are tough to get into sounds like a little much, that's all. Good luck!

[elkpark]

Also be aware that, if you do this, you will be considered a "foreign graduate" because, even if you are a US citizen and have lived in the US all your life, you have taken your nursing education in another country. That means there are extra "hoops" you will have to jump through to get licensed initially, and every time you seek licensure in another state for the rest of your career.