LPN and CNA Programs in NJ

U.S.A. New Jersey

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I will be starting to take my Pre-nursing classes at Bergen Community College this coming year(2014). There are a few things I'm aware of. I'm aware that you need to do above average on you pre nursing course and above average on your HESI exam....so you can stick out. Lastly I'm aware that it's sort of a challenge to actually get into a Nursing Program; Which I have been told umpteen times. So this is why I am asking these question.....Have you did a LPN or CNA program while waiting to get into nursing school? In New Jersey who offers the best and most affordable LPN or CNA program? I'm hoping this road of trying to get into nursing school won't be so daunting; but if it does I would like to have a back up plan while waiting.

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Hi there.

In my opinion, it's not that beneficial to go for CNA if you're going to be aiming for the nursing program in BCC. The BCC nursing program takes 2 years, 3 years in total (1 year of prerequisites). CNA classes take about a month to four months to complete, depending on how much time you can put into it. Giving it a safe amount, let's say you finish in about 2 1/2 months. Now on top of CNA classes, you have 12+ credits every semester (assuming you'll go full time student to finish your prereqs in a year). That alone is a lot of work.

Then let's say you get into the nursing program- where it's advisable not to burden yourself with extra work because you will need to be constantly studying and being on track. You now have to juggle between demanding nursing classes, clinicals, and your CNA work. In the end, you will come out as an RN (or whatever you worked for) with only two years to have utilized the CNA certificate then having no need for it anymore. You paid and worked for the CNA certificate for only two years usage.

In the end, it's ultimately your decision but this is just my two cents. Yes, it's beneficial to have CNA experience before you go into nursing or actual nursing work but it would be difficult to try to handle when the time rolls around to study. But if time and money is not an issue at all, go for it.

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

You can look if Bergen offers a CNA class if not your local county co tech it would be less cost. LPN is not easy but may be an option if Bergen offers an LPN to RN bridge. Some county ASN programs require CNA as an admissions requirement (I know Brookdale in Monmouth county does) but if it is not work you wish to do it may not be worthwhile. Is stay away from for profit PN programs, especially since any loans or financial aid grants used for an LPN program count towards your lifetime maximum and may reduce aid available towards the RN/ASN program.

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Thanks Berriepie and justbeachynurse for your reply's. I will take your Opinions/Advice into consideration; because you guys both made some good points. Thanks again

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Look into Holy Name Medical Center School of Nursing .. They have an LPN and an RN program. They are very different from the for profit schools

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