What should I do???

[starr234]

I posted this in Student Nursing section, but would like the opinion of current nurses. Okay, this is my dilemma. I am trying to choose between two ADN programs. One college has a nice computerized nursing lab and seems to have a better selection of extended learning classes , such as Critical Care Nursing. I really was impressed with what I saw there. This progam is also NLN Accredited. One negative point is the cost 99.00 a credit hour! Keep in mind that I will be paying cash.

The second program is at a city community college whose facility is not as nice. The nursing program is not NLN Accredited at this time. The positive point is that it is half the cost of the first program. I am leaning toward the cheaper program. I figure no one is concerned with what school you attend as long as you pass the State Licensure Exam. Please help me with your advice. I have to decide which one I will actively pursue by next week

[wrightgd]

Find a way to pay the difference... Everything in life comes at a price, and you ALWAYS get what you pay for...

The difference in cost for a quality program will be well worth it as you begin your nursing career. Suck it up, work a night job, get student loans, do whatever it takes, but find a way to spoil yourself. You deserve to have the best opportunity to learn, and grow, and from what you have described, there's no doubt which school provides that opportunity.

Best wishes in your studies,

George

[Fran-RN]

I agree with wrightgd. If you decide to go on at a later time for more education, the non- NLN schools credits probably won't be accepted. You'll be limiting your options by choosing the cheaper route.

[eltrip]

Go for the one that's NLN accredited. It may not seem important right now, but it will be important later. It matters to employers, colleges & universities, etc.

It may cost more in the short term to attend an NLN-accredited school, but it'll cost less in the long run (yikes, I think I'm mixing metaphors!)

All the best to you, whatever your decision.

Joy

[tmf1202]

As a upcoming graduate of an accrediated adn program at a community college, I have to suggest the higher priced accrediated school. You will be able to go alot farther, another thing to consider though is how long until the community college is accrediated, if it is before you graduate, go for it. Community colleges can offer more one on one time with instructors and smaller classes

[kewlnurse]

There is probably a reason thy are not accredidated, go to the more exspensive one. Get a loan if you have to. It will be worth it in the long run

[bestblondRN]

I agree with all the other posters--definitely go with the accredited program. If you ever decide to pursue additional education, you'll want to transfer credits, and they may not be accepted from a non-accredited program. And let's face it......you get what you pay for. Good luck!

[SICU Queen]

I thought that a lot of states required you to be a grad of an NLN accredited school in order to take boards or get reciprocity... ?

I'd definitely go with the accredited school. The other one isn't accredited for a reason...

[colleen10]

Hi everyone,

I'm missing something here. What is an NLN accredited school?

Thanks,

Colleen

[frann]

NLN means the school has been accredited by the NLN. National League of Nursing.

Plus starting this year the tax laws are changing. Makes it very attractive to go to school. Something about all of your student loan will be tax deductible. Next April I too will be able to deduct my student loans!Yippie

[ArenRN, BSN, RN]

The best choice is NLN accredited.

It matters for employment and future studies

I also thought that is required for you to be a grad of an NLN accredited school in order to take boards or get reciprocity.

[biscuit_007]

ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS, choose the accredited program. As a former traveler one of the questions i was asked most often in interviews and for applications for reciprocity was, "Did you graduate from an NLN acredited nursing program?"