Excelsior or hybrid program?

[David Offenbaker, BSN, RN]

Good evening everyone!

So, I've been pondering a few weeks about whether or not I should pursue Excelsior's RN route of two different internet/in-person clinicals at local hospitals (hybrid) programs here in Texas. I decided to take my last few pre-req's VIA community college and now the time is coming to buckle down and make a decision.

Other than not having multiple clinicals rotations, what are the benefits you see in choosing Excelsior over hybrid programs?

I've worked primarily Medical/Surgical and ICU, so are going to multiple clinical rotations worth it? (Hope that doesn't come off arrogant).

Throw some info and opinions my way, please!

Dave

[caliotter3]

Well, some people fail the Excelsior College Clinical Performance in Nursing Examination three times at the end of their program and get dismissed. Not so much a likely outcome if you attend a program with clinical rotations. For this reason alone, I would choose the program with clinical rotations. Much easier on the psyche.

[NC Girl BSN]

IMO. EC was my only option because I tried for 2 years to get into a traditional RN program. I stand behind EC 100% but if you can get into a hybrid program without paying alot of money then I say do that instead of EC. Everyone is not disciplined to finish the EC program and its not easy passing the CPNE.(the very stressful 2.5 day clinical). Again EC was my only option because the schools in NC are ridiculous with their admission critieria and not to mention the competition to get in. I got tired of playing games and feeling like a failure and gave EC a try and now I am a working RN.

[caliotter3]

I would choose one of the local hybrid programs and hold EC on the back burner as Plan B if something catastrophic happens and you need another chance.