GCU or American Sentinel?

[melisgood]

I've narrowed down my choice of online RN-BSN programs to either Grand Canyon University or American Sentinel. They are both CCNE accredited. GCU would require me to take 12 5-week classes (60 weeks=36 credits). They charge $450/credit. There is also a $400 one-time electronic fee and $75/class online text book fee. Total cost per class= $1,458. Total cost for program= $17,500. Classes start about every week. I was told to expect to spend on average 10-12 hours/week/class studying.

American Sentinel would require3 me to take 10 8-week classes (80 weeks=30 credits). They charge $370/credit plus $95 one time new student fee + $100 graduation fee + purchasing testbooks aprox $150/course. Total cost per class= $1,270. Total cost for program=$12,700. Classes start every 8 weeks. i was told to expect to spend on average 5-10 hours/week/class studying

I am planning on getting $3,000/year reimbursed from my employer so I am looking for a flexible program that I can take 3-4 classes/year. I have a baby at home and don't want to take too much time away from her. Which school do you think I should attend based on this info? TIA!

[SweettartRN]

American Sentinel is not regionally accredited so if you transfer anywhere, they may not accept those transfer credits.

[melisgood]

Maybe I misunderstand accreditation? My understanding is CCNE or NLAC is good. NLAC accredits associates-masters programs and CCNE only BSN and above. ? Anyone care to comment on this?

[Lunah, MSN, RN]

NLNAC credits many levels of degrees, as does CCNE. However, schools should also have regional accreditation, and ASU does not.

Here is a site with info about the regional accreditation bodies:

http://www.chea.org/Directories/regional.asp

[neonurse97]

I am also planning to enroll in the Fall at ASU in the RN-BSN program. The school is nationally accredited by DETC and the nursing program is accredited by CCNE which is great. I realize that it is not regionally accredited but that really doesn't matter because I will not transfer anyway. My employer will accept my BSN and eventually my MSN from this university. I will also receive tuition assistance from my employer for this university.