How important are Nursing School Rankings? Do costs matter more?

[cassie87]

Sorry for the not-so-great title, I wasn't precisely sure how to phrase it.

I'm seeking the advice and opinions of current/former nursing students, current nurses, or anyone with insider-knowledge haha. I am trying to make a decision very soon concerning Accelerated BSN programs for this summer and fall. Obviously I'd like to attend the best school possible, but I wonder just how essential ranking/reputation truly is in the nursing field. All the schools I am considering are Midwest schools, both public and private, in the top 50 (according to the US News report), but they varying widely in those rankings. Furthermore, the cost differences between these programs is considerate. Especially now more than ever, I don't know if taking on $10,000 or more extra debt is worth the better rank. For example, the lowest ranked school I am considering is Michigan State University, yet it is also the most affordable. This is not to disrespect MSU at all - I love the campus and have heard many wonderful things about the program - I'm simply wondering whether it's "lower" ranking really means anything. If not, it seems that going there would be a no-brainer.

If anyone can provide any advice, I would greatly appreciate it - I just want to make the most practical decision possible. Thank you so much in advance!

[elkpark]

First, the US News rankings are pretty much a joke, and anyone in nursing academia will tell you that. They are based on v. limited data and v. arbitrary measures that have almost nothing to do with how good the program itself is from the students' perspective (esp. at the undergrad level). There are lots of excellent nursing programs that don't do well in the US News rankings, or don't appear at all.

NCLEX pass rates are a somewhat significant indicator, and those are usually available through the state BON for all the schools in the state. Some schools use a variety of somewhat "sneaky" techniques to keep their pass rate high, so it's not a definitive measure, but you should definitely be cautious about a school with a lower pass rate.

The "best" school is a v. personal matter based on many variables. The best choice for me may not be the best choice for you, and vice versa. My best advice is to interview at the schools that interest you, ask lots of questions, and ask to speak with current students and recent graduates of the program (privately, without school personnel present). That is a perfectly reasonable request and the school should be happy to accommodate you -- if not, that's a red flag right there.

There may be any number of reasons to choose a more expensive nursing program, but expecting the name of the school to make a difference in your career is not one of them. It may give you a slight advantage in applying for positions early in your career, but the longer you're out of school, the more your own professional performance and accomplishments will matter much more. I would not spend a great deal more money to go to a "big name" school just because of the name of the school -- if you feel good about a less expensive school, there's no reason not to go with that!

I would not give any particular weight to the US News rankings. In the end, you have to "go with your gut" and what feels like the best choice for you. Best wishes!

[cassie87]

thank you for the advice. That was kind of what I thought would be the case, but I'm glad to hear it's more about personal initiative than ranking. And god knows I could stand to be several thousand dollars less in debt at the end of my ABSN program!