Los Angeles County RN program vs Pasadena City College RN program

[greenappleinabox]

I need some perspective. I was just wondering which nursing program is, for the lack of a better term, better academically. I'm done with all of my pre-reqs and I've already started the application process. I'm fully aware of how impacted and difficult it is to enter a RN program but I'm very hopeful. I've heard such great things about both schools. I'll be thrilled just getting into one. Considering I get accepted, I honestly wonder which school would be the best choice? Thanks to anyone that answers.

[willowita, ADN, RN]

I'm applying to both schools but honestly, I have my heart set on the LA County school. I have zero healthcare experience and their strong prep in clinicals is why I want to go there. Learning from a book is something I'm great at but it's the real life stuff that I don't feel prepared for.

Both LA County and PCC offers an ADN degree and it's accredited so you can go on to a BSN. So I don't think you can go wrong with either.

Did you go to LA county's info session?

[greenappleinabox]

Unfortunately, I wasn't able to . Do you happen to know when the TEAS test needs to be taken? More specifically, before you turn in the application or if you get accepted? I did a little more research into both programs and people seem to favor LA County more. Ooo and thanks for giving me some insight.

[willowita, ADN, RN]

LA County said that you don't have to take the TEAS before you apply. If you make their cut, they will contact you to take the TEAS at the school. I haven't taken it either so I'm waiting until I hear from them. They said they have tests coming up at the end of this month and then again in February. They didn't have exact dates, though.

Ugh, the Pasadena application was supposed to be available today but now they're saying it won't be up until Monday!

[Medic2RN, BSN, RN, EMT-P]

Moved to California nursing programs forum.

[greenappleinabox]

Ooo yes I know, I've been waiting for ages for the PCC application. Well I truly wish you good luck in all of the colleges you apply to and thanks tremendously for all your help!!!

[SoCalCrystal, CNA]

From what I have heard they are very different programs. My best advice is get some health care experience. With County's program they throw you into the bullpen right away and I have heard they do it in an effort to weed out the weak. If you think you can handle the autonmy then go for it, but if you think at any point that that autonmy right off the bat is too much I would look into other schools. Pasadena is a good program also but there are so many other programs in LA that you are not even considering also. Appy to as many as you can and those you do get into go to their orientations. I got into a few schools and what I thought was my dream school ended up not being once I got more information on the program and even just the students in the cohort. Ultimately the only person who knows best if you.