Does UDC have the worst BSN program in the DC area?

[mina11]

For reasons out of my control, I may actually be looking at attending UDC for a BSN program. The ABSN program at Georgetown is expensive, UMD's program at Shady Grove will probably not let a DC resident have in-state tuition, and neither will GMU over in VA. I've heard all kinds of terrible things about UDC, and I have no idea if it's even a decent school.

Would it makes sense to pay out-of-state tuition if I got into GMU or UMD, or even Georgetown-type tuition? I really don't want to graduate with a high debt load. My original idea was to move to a cheaper state that had more educational opportunities, but the job situation has chained me to staying in the DC area. I've been trying to move to Virginia, but all the apts on the metro line are super expensive and I can't really afford a car right now.

So, is UDC that bad?

[FralliesMom_RN]

Hi mina11,

I'm a DC resident too, so have the same issues with tuition. I was advised not to even take my prereqs at UDC and have been paying out of state tuition to take them at Montgomery College. I was told by various admissions people that nursing school is so competitive and they don't feel UDC provides the same caliber of education even in just the prereqs.

There are a couple of options. The accelerated BSN program at Georgetown offers an 80% scholarship in exchange for a 3 year commitment to work at Washington Hospital Center. That's what I'm shooting for right now (applied for Spring 2010). If I get that, it brings down the cost tremendously and I have a guaranteed job. If you have a bachelors already this may be something to check out. Also, the state of MD has a program which if you commit to working for a Maryland hospital for 2 years, you may get to pay in state tuition. UM-Baltimore is my 2nd choice so I'm still learning about this program and whether or not I qualify. I figure if I'm accepted, I'll find out more about it.

Another option I can't do and I don't know your situation so you may not be able to either, but can you move into VA or MD to establish residency and take advantage of in state tution?

I thought I heard that UDC may be losing their accrediation and they have a low NCLEX pass rate. I would definitely do some homework on it before you invest your time and money.

Good luck!

Heather

[TaureanWoman]

hmmm i'm not sure about that but i know i called them once and the person on the other line had the nastiest attitude and that turned me off from even looking further. i'm not sure if that is the right thing to do but i'd rather not attend a program where it's hard to get information over the phone. those to me are tell tales signs of the way your experience will go.

i live in the MD/DC/VA area and i'm thinking about applying to Marymount, George Mason, and Washington Adventist University (formerly Columbia Union), and UM shady grove/baltimore. i'm also looking out of state to tennessee and alabama, where the tuition is cheaper, cost of living is cheaper. i can alwasy move back to the area oncei get my degree.