How to choose a nursing school

[mctavishcat]

Hi everyone,

I received such supportive and useful advice the last time that I posted so I thought I would try again. I have been working, as a teacher, out of the country for a LONG time. I am coming back to the states now with no money at age 30 and very eagor to start nursing school.

I am from Indianapolis and so the logical plan would be to work really hard, save some money, then enroll at IUPUI where I can live at home for a while and save on rent. All of my freinds, and livelyhood however, are in NYC. I was planning on moving there after finishing school but I am not sure that I want to spend the younger half of this new decade in the midwest.

My question, can anyone offer advice on nursing schools in general in NYC, for people with out of state residence? My friend, living in NYC suggested CUNY. Has anyone experienced a similar situation? I am not sure if I am planning ot take on too much at once. I know that I can tutor, and serve drinks on the side but the stress of school could add up.

Any advice is appreciated and welcomed.

Thanks so much!

mctavishcat

[guiltysins]

I would have to say be careful with CUNY. Not because of the out of state thing but because of the CUNY administration. For one, depending on what kind of degree you want you will have different options. If you want your Associate's you'll have a few programs, however if you want your Bachelor's you will be limited to only four CUNY colleges. All CUNY schools have very rigorous nursing programs that for most seem to be a lottery system to get into. Unlike some of the private schools in the city you have to first apply to the school, do pre-reqs and then apply to the program. For most private schools, once you apply to the school you have applied to the program. GPA is very competitive at CUNY schools and that and the entrance exam they use are all they focus on. The minimum for most is 3.6. The Associate degrees might be a little higher because their programs only have room for 50 to 60 students.

The private schools are expensive but they are easier to get into. Usually a 3.3 will do it for you, if not a little less. Also certain CUNY programs only have a Fall admittance program early meaning if you don't have all of your pre-reqs by then you have to wait for the next year instead of a spring option. The only advantage CUNY's really have over the private schools are tuition but sometimes it isn't worth it with the lottery admission and overcrowded classes.

[mctavishcat]

Thank you guiltysins!

This is the information I really need to make a decision. Thanks for taking you time to reply.