Is State Approval Good Enough?

Published

Hi everyone!

I just finished my last prerequisite class last Thursday finally! So I'll be applying to nursing programs in the next few months. I'll be applying to about 8 different schools.

However I noticed that 2 of these schools are Not accredited by the ACEN (I'm only applying to ADN programs). They are only approved by the state.

Is state approval good enough?

I've done my research & read that sometimes depending on the school it can affect you when applying to Rn-BSN programs. Is this true?

Feedback is greatly appreciated.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

If it's not approved, I'd steer clear of it.

If it's approved that means that the school has reached a certain standard. The risk of hitting severe roadblocks (such as being unable to obtain licensure, transfer states etc) just aren't worth it. Hiring opportunities could be limited, as may the ability to transfer your license to another state, or even to apply to advanced programs. There are tons of horror stories on these forums from people who didn't realize that they had spent the last 2+ years in an unaccredited school.

Better safe than sorry, imo.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Mental Health.

There's a reason they aren't accredited.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I've been looking at local job postings for RN's a lot of them say "Must have graduated from an accredited nursing program".

Wow... so not worth it.

Thank you for your input.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Many of those for profit non-accredited schools can also close down before you even graduate. Then you have to start all over and you're out all the tuition you paid. I've seen it happen.

Also, you need to be able to pass the NCLEX. Crappy school equally crappy preparation with a hefty price tag.

If you EVER want to go past your ADN, and with the way things are constantly changing I wouldn't rule it out, then you want an accredited school. Very few BSN programs will allow their credits to transfer over.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Many of those for profit non-accredited schools can also close down before you even graduate. Then you have to start all over and you're out all the tuition you paid. I've seen it happen.

Also, you need to be able to pass the NCLEX. Crappy school equally crappy preparation with a hefty price tag.

If you EVER want to go past your ADN, and with the way things are constantly changing I wouldn't rule it out, then you want an accredited school. Very few BSN programs will allow their credits to transfer over.

As have I. My friend went to Everest & ended up with massive debt & a worthless degree.

Ive decided to not even apply to the for profit schools. I do want to get my BSN & hopefully MSN in the long run. Hoping to get into one of my local community college's programs.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion