How is PT RN at MDC considered PT?

[Jmiami]

The point of this program is for those who need to work through it, right? The first semester is 8 credits, while the first semester of FT program is 10 or so. How is that part time? Then the next semester drops down to two credits. The next back up to 9. So one semester is almost the same amount as a full time courseload and you're trying to work through it. The next, you're barely going to school. Then the next you get slammed with credits. I don't know any jobs that will allow you to work one semester, but not the next and still keep your position. I'm failing to see the ability to functionally work through this program. Does anyone know if you can work PT through the LPN program (which is 18 months vs. 2.5 yrs of PT RN).

[Double-Helix, BSN, RN]

Generally, full time at a college is considered 12 credits per semester. Anything less than that is a part time program.

That being said, it is very strange that you would go from 8 credits, to 2, to 9, etc. Are there clinical hours during those low semesters that just aren't counted in the credit load? In my program, the lecture hours were the only thing that counted as credits. The clinical hours did not factor into the credit load. So a 3 credit course would be 3 hours of lecture per week, in addition to 8-12 hours of clinical. I'm betting that in that 2 credit semester you'll also have quite a bit of time dedicated to clinicals.

It would make it hard to work. Probably your best bet is to accept a Per Diem or PRN position where you can work the minimum amount of hours during your busy semesters and pick up extra shifts during the semesters that you have more free time. (If you're working as a CNA/LPN). If you're not working in healthcare, something like waitressing or bar tending (which has very flexible hours) might be most doable.

Sorry, but I can't give you any personal advice about working through that specific program.