Is it true that some states don't recognize a nursing degree from Excelsior?

Jolie, BSN · Feb 12, 2008

Yes, it is true.

IL, for example won't issue an initial license to an EC grad. They will issue a license by endorsement after the candidate has successfully practiced in another state for a period of time (2 years, I think.)

suzanne4, RN · Feb 12, 2008

Excelsior is not accepted in about 8 states or so, including CA.

Make sure that you do a thorough search on where to attend school before starting to find out where the degree is accepted and not accepted.

There is already much written on this topic. My suggestion is always to go thru a school that is accepted all over the US.

Skwidward · Feb 12, 2008

Thanks for the replies!

So if a nurse graduates from EC in a state that recognizes it, works for 1-2 years, is she then able to transfer her license or apply for a license in other states? or will the fact that the degree came EC always cause problems?

In other words will experience cancel out EC?

Editorial Team / Moderator · Feb 12, 2008

In other words will experience cancel out EC?

Unfortunately, no. Some states require additional precepted hours for EC graduates, so experience might take care of things in those states. However, states like California will never allow EC graduates who enrolled after a certain date (when was it, 2003?) to work as RNs in Cali. Not unless something changes.

elkpark · Feb 13, 2008

We also have no idea how acceptance of EC may change in the future (e.g., more states may decide they have a problem with it, or the restrictions may be reduced ...) To me, that would just be 'way too big of a "grey area."