Medical University of South Carolina VS Marshall/CAMC Nurse Anesthetist Program

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I was hoping that one could lend advice on selecting between two programs. I have been accepted into the Marshall/CAMC program which offers a Master of Science in Health Care Administration/Anesthesia. In addition, it seems that I have a good chance of obtaining a spot at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) which offers a Master of Science in Anesthesia.

I am confident that both are excellent programs and produce quality trained anesthetists. However, the degrees offered do differ and I am unsure of which degree would be more advantagious to complete and acquire.

Currently, when assessing cost it appears that MUSC will be slightly cheaper. In addition, it seems the MUSC when assessing curriculum is more frontloaded included gross anatomy, etc. At this time my preference is leaning towards the Medical University of South Carolina.

Any advice regarding pro's and con's of schools and degrees offered is appreciated.

SCnurse

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wow ... first of all, congrats on being accepted. IMHO i would go w/ the health care administration/anesthesia route, b/c if for some strange reason the anesthesia doesn't play out for you, you'll have the other degree to fall back on. but then again, i'm just an applicant waiting to hear back myself, so what do i know. :rolleyes:

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I was accepted to three schools including CAMC and chose CAMC for several reasons. One was the unique degree they offer. Other reasons were the diverse clinical experiences you get.... regional, general, etc.. not to mention they have the second largest heart program in the country (lots of open heart clinicals). The people there were awesome, and the staff had been there for a long time. Everything you will have to do as far as school is concerned is all within about four miles of each other... several hospitals, outpatient centers, and class. I start in may, so I can only speak for what appealed to me on the outside, but I have spoken with several students and they love it there.

good luck on your decision. I know it was tough for me.

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Tommy,

Thanks for the advice....we probably actually know one another considering I am native of WV (graduated 2001 from Marshall). Actually, I'm pretty familiar with CAMC Memorial....saw first open heart surgery there....yes, they have great open heart program.

However, I have been in South Carolina since graduating Marshall and since becoming resident of South Carolina the Medical University of South Carolina I have noticed carries significant importance. Many Docs I work with are Graduates of MUSC and I certainly believe the Medical University of South Carolina (Since 1823) carries a significant amount of pride, prestige, and certainly produce quality MDs, Pharmacists, Dentists, Anesthetists, etc.

One key facet I gather from those with knowledge of MUSC is that the program is "frontloaded" with primary focus being anesthesia and the sciences necessary in gaining a firm foundation in anesthesia. In addition, being a large teaching institution also has many benefits including gross anatomy (cadavers) lab etc. Of course many of my co-workers currently are more biased towards MUSC (being native South Carolinians) and are pushing MUSC....honestly, currently I'm still leaning towards MUSC.

However, my decision is still not made up. I'm going to down to Charleston, SC in a few days so perhaps this will help with my decision....any advice or info. is still welcome.

I

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Good luck to you!!! I am not trying to imply that CAMC is the only school with a good program.... there are many, I hope you didn't feel I was bashing on anyone. For me, CAMC was the best choice. I am not even from WV, from UT where we have no choice but to leave the state for anesthesia school. The one thing I wish was different was that it were front loaded, but that was not a big influence on my decision. I would much rather stay in my home state if they had a program, and it was a good one. I don't blame you for leaning the other way.

good luck.

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Tommy,

I did not feel your message in any facet was biased. You were simply being objective and offering your perspective on my current situation, which is what I was requesting.

I'm positive that CAMC/Marshall Anesthesia is a quality program and ultimately there is a good chance we will meet one another in May for the upcoming Freshmen class. If so, I look forward to meeting you. Memorial Division (CAMC) where most classes and clinical experiences will occur is a great hospital. As previously mentioned, being a Marshall Graduate and having done many clinical rotations at both Memorial and Women's and Children's Divisions in Charleston, WV I realize there are great opportunities associated with this school.

However, after assessing the two curriculums it seems that currently MUSC truly has caught my attention. Not to mention being in the Historical area of Charleston, SC is not so bad at all...hehe!...truly an awesome area and great reputation for quality Medical training.

Again, the decision is not final and there is the possibilty that we will soon meet. If not, good luck in your career pursuit and endeavors. I make my way up that way to my parent's home every 3-4 months....if you have any questions regarding the area...feel free to ask.

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