Do employers care where you went to nursing school?

Okay, AN. I seriously need some advice here...

I have offers from two different nursing schools--UMass Amherst and PBA. Both freshman direct entry programs and from what I know, both solid programs. Here's the thing. PBA is much less expensive than UMass and closer to home. But, PBA doesn't have a very recognizable name from what I've gathered talking to current nurses. So here are my questions...

1. Do employers care where you went to school?

2. Will going to UMass, a highly acclaimed program and one of the best in the country, give me an edge over other new grads? An edge worth the cost difference?

3. How feasible is it to pay off student loans with a nurse's salary?

I definitely want to get my BSN because in my area, ADN jobs are few and far between. Plus, for they money I'd spend on my associates, I would just rather get more and better training in a reputable BSN program.

All input is appreciated!! Thank you!!

[AutumnApple]

*From what I"m told* it matters not for the typical floor nursing position.

I've also *been told* by more than a few that they got their position and where they went helped. These are mostly people in highly specialized positions or upper level management.

End of story: It's mostly a matter of opinion, but seems the higher up the rung you go the more it matters.

[AutumnApple]

I find that employers don't care where you went to school, so long as it is accredited and you have good recommendations from qualified professors. UMass Amherst, IMO, is overhyped. Just because it has a low acceptance rate does not mean the program is top notch. My cousin did nursing school at Umass Amherst and HATED it. I have seen the facilities and there are better ones in my local community colleges, which speaks volumes for a public school so outrageously expensive for out of state students. It's a no brainer for me.

And, there is the matter of being honorable.

Low acceptance rates touted as an "achievement" are just insecurities flipped upside down. Most schools with low acceptance rates are that way because they're afraid to take on anyone who isn't a shinny sure first time boards pass. If they see *any* chip in a person's armor, they're turned away. Then they spin it all as some false story of "exclusivity".

On the other hand, more honorable schools are taking on these students. Some pass first time, some don't. In the end though, the school did the right thing. And, they have the capacity to help students who aren't perfect.

So, who is, in reality the better school?

Acceptance rates are a terrible way to gauge a school.