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Discussion

BSN in CA or ADN out of state?

Hi guys,

I'm having a hard time deciding what to do. I live in CA with my dad and stepmom. I'll be done with my last nursing prerequisite in Fall 2019, so I'll start applying to multiple nursing programs soon.

I'm not sure if I should apply to CA nursing programs or move out of state to live with my mom and stepdad. I'm worried that if I live in CA then I will have to take out extra loans for school tuition and other bills. My dad and stepmom wants me to help them pay rent and other utilities. I honestly don't mind helping, but I'm also looking to be in LESS debt. The BSN program in CA costs $40k for 3 years.

If I move out of state, then I'd still have to take out loans to pay for school tuition. However, out of state tuition is expensive! The school I plan to apply to is an ADN program. Out of state tuition costs $24k for one year. I'm not sure if tuition will lower once residency is proven in a year, but if it does lower then the second year of school will cost $6-9k. I do plan to bridge from ADN to BSN too. I told my mom about my concerns and she and my stepdad agreed that I don't have to pay any bills. They just want me to focus in school and told me to work part time so I can pay my debt.

1. Would it be a better option to stay in CA or move out of state?

2. If I do move out of state, would it be hard to come back to CA?

3. Will I be in less debt if I move out state?

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    If you have residency in California and your main concern is costs for school and housing then I would say stay in California. While it is expensive to live there if you're in major cities, you can always have roommates. Renting a room within a house with fellow college students can cost you around $600-$1000 in major areas such as San Diego/Orange County and even LA.

    I'm personally choosing to move out of California to attend nursing school but that is because I'm changing careers and am applying to accelerated BSN programs. California only has one that is a year in duration, which I am also applying to but it starts in Summer. I'm aiming for a Spring start date. You require a bachelor's degree in another field for these programs however.

    Coming back to California won't be difficult after you graduate nursing school, just ensure that it is accredited. Completing an ADN out of state and then getting a job in California may be difficult though simply based on the fact that the other school's reputation is unknown. Many hospitals are pushing BSN prepared nurses. Local ADN programs have a reputation with the hospitals which helps you get jobs after graduating.

    You would likely be in the same amount of debt. Don't be afraid of taking out loans, especially if you intend to work in California. You will be compensated well as a nurse and you can pay them back, or you can apply for scholarships/grants.

    A new BSN program just opened up in San Diego at Brandman University, might be worth checking out. They're approximately $34,000 for the nursing core and it is about a 1.5 year program.

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