Drexel, Jefferson, UMDNJ

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I am trying to decide between several accelerated BSN programs: Drexel's ACE program, Jefferson's FACT program, and UMDNJ accelerated bachelors.

I have done a lot of research on them, so I know about the different program lengths and costs for all three, and also about the masters credits for Jefferson. I have asked around and gotten the generic "Oh, they are great programs." I was wondering if anyone had any more specific feedback about these three programs...especially, if you are in or have graduates from one.

I would welcome both pro and cons. I would love to hear the great things, but also I would like to know what is frustrating about them to get a well rounded perspective.

Thank you so much for any feedback you have!

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Level II UMDNJ student here....I was interested and accepted into all of those schools as well. The first reason why I chose UMDNJ over the others was the cost of tuition compared to the other schools. It is a bargain compared to the other schools, probably the best deal in state and you don't have to deal with the hassle of city life (I'm at Stratford). Secondly, the class size at UMDNJ is significantly smaller, which does allow for a better learning experience. My cohort started with 30, but were at about 25 now due to drop outs/failure. Thirdly, the length of the program (15mos) does allow me to have a life outside of school. I can still go out on the weekends, hit the gym and work 15 hours a week, all of which are important to me.

As far as cons, the program is stressful and extremely exhausting at times. Expect an exam every week of the semester calendar in addition to several group projects and individual assignments. The constant studying and volume of everything definately wears you down and when you think the bottom is going to drop out, things do get better. If you have any other questions feel free to ask, I may need some probing to get into the other cons.

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Thank you for your help! A couple other questions...

With the class sizes being smaller, do you feel like it is easier to get individual attention when you need it?

I was also looking at the Stradford campus, and the nursing lab they showed us seemed like it had less equipment than the one at Drexel, do you feel like you still have the practice necessary for clinicals?

I really liked the things you pointed out about UMDNJ, the cost was a big plus. The only thing I did not like was that they do not have a fall program, so I would have to wait until Jan 2012 because I will not be done my pre-reqs overlap with the start of the Summer 2011 program.

Thanks again!

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I haven't seen Drexel's or Jeff's labs, but I've heard really good things. I believe Drexel has a brand new SIM lab and that they hire actors to work on your skills etc. I'm sure our lab is far inferior. We only really used the lab for the first 6 week of semester 1 and then were thrown into clinicals. They teach you the basics, the rest you pretty much learn on site during clinical.

The professors all want you to deal well and pass since its a pretty close knit group. You definately can get individual attention and extra help if you need it. There are study groups, exam blue prints, etc to help us.

A fall cohort is offered at Newark, if you are within commute range.

Your best bet would be to get in contact with some Drexel students who graduated from their program. After reading the horror stories about ACE and the 30% attrition rate, I opted to keep my sanity.

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The description you mentioned felt really informative! Thank you!!~

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