Debating between two programs, advice?

I am admitted to two different nursing programs

1. Univeristy of Minnesota - Twin Cities

Traditional BSN for 3 years.

2. Shenandoah University

Accelerated BSN program for 15 months.

Tuition was, Shenandoah University is a little cheaper just because it's shorter.

U of M definately has a better program academically and clinically.

I was originally gonna join Shenandoah University, then I found out that they were still trying to get a few

professors to teach some of the courses. I became worried if the program wasn't stable and could become cancelled. With the current economy, even schools are struggling, and I wouldn't be surprised if small universities had to cancel some of their programs.

Also, as an international student, having a diploma from a better school would make a difference in getting employed? I know it doesn't matter at all once you get the job, but could school name matter in order to get the first job?

Additionally, I would a lot more work / internship experiences at U of M, than at Shenandoah.

I am starting to think U of M might actually be a wiser choice even though it's longer and would cost a little extra in the long run?

Any inputs?

You say that Shenandoah is just a little cheaper? If it's not a big difference, I'd go ahead and choose Michigan. You're right in that their nursing program is very well known. Not only will name recognition help, but you know the program is established and stable. Additionally, since Michigan is a traditional BSN program might you be able to work as well? That could offset some of the cost difference.

Peace,

CuriousMe

You say that Shenandoah is just a little cheaper? If it's not a big difference, I'd go ahead and choose Michigan. You're right in that their nursing program is very well known. Not only will name recognition help, but you know the program is established and stable. Additionally, since Michigan is a traditional BSN program might you be able to work as well? That could offset some of the cost difference.

Peace,

CuriousMe

Not Michigan, but U of Minnesota.

The tuition difference ends up being around 3~4 grands. I am not sure if I will get the scholarship at U of Minnesota.

I think financially, and economically, it makes a lot of sense to go to Shenandoah. I am in my late 20s, and do want to get done with school asap.

With that being said, as an international student, it would be a lot more beneficial to go to a large school with a lot of resources.

Not Michigan, but U of Minnesota.

The tuition difference ends up being around 3~4 grands. I am not sure if I will get the scholarship at U of Minnesota.

I think financially, and economically, it makes a lot of sense to go to Shenandoah. I am in my late 20s, and do want to get done with school asap.

With that being said, as an international student, it would be a lot more beneficial to go to a large school with a lot of resources.

Whoops Sorry :-)

The other thing to consider is as an international student, is English your first language? Would you have a better shot of success with the pace of the traditional BSN?

Peace,

CuriousMe

Whoops Sorry :-)

The other thing to consider is as an international student, is English your first language? Would you have a better shot of success with the pace of the traditional BSN?

Peace,

CuriousMe

Definately traditional BSN is going to be easier. I already have B.S from U.S, so it's not as much of an obstacle as it would be for someone who just arrived in U.S.