Excelsior or LPN-BSN Indiana State

Editorial Team / Moderator · Sep 28, 2011

One thing that might be a "dealbreaker" in terms of Excelsior College (EC) is whether or not it is accepted in your state: http://www.excelsior.edu/state-board-requirements

There are a couple state BONs that will not license EC grads because we didn't have clinicals concurrent with theory (namely California and Maryland). Other states require extra hours, or time as a RN in another state before allowing EC grad RNs to endorse their licenses.

However, I think ISU has some of these same issues as far as not being accepted in all states ... there is a map of states where the degree is recognized: http://www.indstate.edu/lpn-bs/images/icons/states-that-recognize-isu-lpn-bs.gif

Not sure if that helps. EC is self-study and self-paced, which means the speed at which you finish will depend on your motivation and ability to learn material on your own. ISU is not self-study, which gives students a bit more structure.

Good luck in making your decision!

RNFADreams · Sep 28, 2011

Thank you for getting back to me and for the helpful links ab approved states/states that require extra clinical hrs. I had seen posts regarding that and didn't know where to look! Thank you thank you! I am in OH, so I think I'm ok? I am still deciding, but I like that I can get started asap and be done when I want to be. I don't like that there are no clinicals throughout the program, just one big check-off. That part makes me cringe. Only bc I want the patient care time and I also like that most clincal time coincides with what you are learning. Looks like if I want to be done quickly, I'm going to have to be proactive in my own learning. I looked at getting some practice materials (ie an IV/injection pad, wound packing kit) for home. I know they aren't the same as real pts, but if I don't get the clinical time, I need to make a scenario up myself. Where I currently work, I do not have contact with IV's, deep wounds, trachs, or any tubes. Seems like EC is where you need to be creative. Hhmmm..:/.

Editorial Team / Moderator · Sep 28, 2011

Yeah, the clinical exam -- the CPNE -- can be daunting. It definitely makes success in EC's program not a "sure thing." Granted, a nursing student can fail out of any kind of clinicals, but I understand your reservations. But just be aware that the CPNE tests students on basic assessment and basic management -- the key word being "basic." Nothing terribly invasive, you won't be asked to start an IV or anything like that.

A friend of mine from Ohio did EC, and had no problems with her licensure there. :)

RNFADreams · Sep 30, 2011

I feel like I should be extra prepared and review any clinical skill I would need in the real world, as well as the CPNE prep. Also, there are workshops you can attend. I am thinking..yes to the EC route. Thank you for your help! :)