Citizen's vs. Shadyside?

ChristineN, BSN, RN · May 27, 2008

Hi, I'll admitt I'm a little biased as I know nothing about Citizen's, but as someone about to graduate from Shadyside's program, you can't go wrong there. If may be a farther drive, but the amount of time you spend in direct pt care plus their impressive first time NCLEX pass rate (I believe it's around 96%) make it worthwhile. Plus when I started you could go for free with 100% tuition forgiveness if you agreed to work for UPMC (I'm not sure if this is being offered for incoming students still or not). I was originally going to go to nursing school out in Ohio, but I'm so glad I came to Shadyside. The clinical opportunities and training I've had while still in school has been quite impressive. I feel that Shadyside has done a very good job of preparing me for the "real world" of nursing.

june2009 · May 28, 2008

I don't know much about citizens program, but shadyside is absolutely cutting edge when it comes to cancer treatment, and cardiovascular care. Just about everything I'm pretty sure. I believe that citizens is in or near new kensington isn't it? Not exactly the technology mecca (sp?) of the medical world. I don't know if distance or cost is an issue, but if you want the best experience, I'd go for shadyside.

You could always keep citizens as a backup "just in case".

K98 · May 29, 2008

I have a little experience with both programs. I graduated from Citizens General, and I have a family member who graduated from Shadyside. Both are quality programs with a high NCLEX pass rate. Citizens does their clinicals at AKMC, AGH, Torrance SH, among others. Shadyside uses UPMC facilities. I went to work in the SICU/Transplant unit at AGH after graduating from Citizens. I felt that CGH provided me with the clinical experience that I needed to hit the ground running. My family member did the same, but went to a UPMC facility. She did well also, but has since left UPMC. I know that both schools do informational tours/open houses. Check both of them out and pick the one you like best. You will have to live with your choice for two years (actually, much longer...).

ERN1187 · Jun 3, 2008

Thanks for all of the input! I've decided to go with Shadyside. Hopefully the long drive will be worth it! Thanks again for all of the information, you all were extremely helpful! :yeah:

ilovenursing33 · Dec 9, 2008

go get your BSN, aim high!

ChristineN, BSN, RN · Dec 14, 2008

go get your BSN, aim high!

This is completely off topic to the discussion at hand.

danh3190 · Dec 17, 2008

go get your BSN, aim high!

It's not an either/or thing. I think it's a great idea to get your RN, work, and let your employer help support you while you finish the rest of your work for your BSN.