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Discussion

Graduates of Direct Entry MSN Programs in Massachusetts

Does anyone have any feedback on the quality of students from the direct-entry MSN programs at UMass Worcester (UMass Medical) or MGH IHP? If there are any preceptors out there that can comment on the perceived level of knowledge, experience, preparation, bedside manner, etc. that these students exhibit, that would be extremely helpful!

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    • Author

    Just to clarify, I'm sure that grads from both programs are awesome as both schools have great reputations. I'm really looking to get a better understanding of the pros/cons of the training provided in each program. I know the UMass requires 1000 hours of RN work experience prior to graduation while MGH does not...I'm not sure how this (and other differences in the programs) affect graduates starting out.

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    Hi,

    I have precepted students from both schools (and also from Boston College), and didn't see any difference. One had many years of RN experience (not a direct entry student), one had less than a year, and 2 had none. They all did well and all found employment soon after graduation. I think success is very much up to the individual, and I don't think the particular school or RN experience was a huge factor in their ability to find work and be successful.

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    @BCGradnurse: Thanks for your response! Would you just recommend going with the program that is less expensive then if the output is the same?

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    In this case, yes. UMASS is a great program and you will save a lot of money if you are a MA resident vs. MGH. As long as UMASS has the track/specialty that you want. Good luck!

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    • Author

    I was awarded a large scholarship from MGH, so MGH tuition would end up being about $20k less for the whole program. I think I am just torn because UMass had been my first choice. Had I not been awarded the scholarship, it would not be a question. I'm just not sure that it is worth taking on the extra student loan debt at a 6.8% interest rate...

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    I was awarded a large scholarship from MGH so MGH tuition would end up being about $20k less for the whole program. I think I am just torn because UMass had been my first choice. Had I not been awarded the scholarship, it would not be a question. I'm just not sure that it is worth taking on the extra student loan debt at a 6.8% interest rate...[/quote']

    Both schools produce adequately competent new-grad NPs. I have had several interactions with students from both programs and they are very similar (in fact I know a ACNP track student at the IHP and she is precepting at UMass Memorial). Either will serve you well, and I 100% agree with the above: the individual matters much more than the school or prior RN experience.

    I would chose the program based on where up think you will be best supported (which I hear great things about UMass) and will cost the least. Talk to faculty. Talk to current students.

    Be very careful that both programs will find your preceptors for you. Finding preceptors has become a bottleneck for NP programs.

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    • Author

    Thanks for your feedback - it is definitely comforting to know that you have had positive experiences with students from both programs! I do get the feeling that UMass offers more support to their students in terms of finding a job, preparing for the NCLEX, etc. Though I am assuming that this is because the class size is so much smaller.

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