California State University vs. Private School

[pigbunny]

This is a little random, but I've been accepted into two nursing programs (CSUF (EL-MSN) / SMU (EL-MSN FNP)) and I am have a really tough time deciding which program to attend in the fall.

If anyone has any insight to either school (Cal State Fullerton or Samuel Merritt) please please respond to this post. There are pros and cons to both schools, but ideally, if there are graduates from either program that can give me any more details about either program that would be swell. Thanks

[leenak]

I don't mean this as a stupid question but do you understand the differences in the programs? The CSUF program is an entry level MSN RN degree (and I verified by looking at their website). It looks to be an 18 month program. A FNP program is completely different than an RN program and you'd bepracticing as an advanced nurse. The program looks to be 3-4 years long ? (they say 10 semesters, most entry level MSN-NP programs are 3 years or more). So the question would really be, what do you want to do once you graduate? Do you want to be an RN or a FNP?

[jpeters84]

Cal state Fullerton hands down.

[pigbunny]

Thank you for your response, leenak. Yes, I did understand the differences between the two programs. My long term goal is to eventually become an advanced practice nurse. However, at the time of the posting, I was debating which route I would take to achieve my goal. While both programs offered me the chance to become an RN, I wanted to reach out to those who have recently graduated from either school to gain some insight about the programs. Also, the CSUF program is a 3-year accelerated Master's program, not an 18-month program.

[lv2learn]

CSU Fullerton is much cheaper and well known.

[Kuriin, BSN, RN]

SMU produces some excellent nurses and you would automatically become the advanced practice nurse that you want to be. Why not go that route?

[OfeliaMSN]

Fullerton is hard to get into. Congratulations! !!!!!!