moving to Augusta - GHSU or ASU?

Makahu · Mar 16, 2012

Hi there,

Well, as I am starting MCG/GHSU's nursing program this summer, I am of coursed biased toward that program. =-) I've heard absolutely wonderful things about it. I don't know much about ASU's program, except that their BSN program has not been around for more than a few years.

HOWEVER, to spare you any trouble, I should have you know that MCG/GHSU and ASU are currently in the process of merging, and by 2013 the nursing programs will be one in the same, with all nursing classes being taken at the MCG/GHSU campus. I'm not thrilled with the idea for several reasons, but we won't get into that.

I heard a rumor that no new students will be accepted until they get everything sorted out, but like I said, that's just a rumor, and since you're already a nursing student anyway that might not apply to you.

If I were you, I would call GHSU's nursing department and see what they can tell you, since they'll be the ones heading the merged nursing program. They're very organized and super helpful! (I just hope that doesn't change with this merge!)

Good luck!

KonaDog05 · Mar 16, 2012

Thank you so much for your input- that is very good to know. I will call them on Monday to see how I should go about transferring. I am so glad you told me all of that!

reteheng · Mar 18, 2012

From a different perspective, I a currently a first semester BSN student at ASU. We have received the same information, that everything will essentially remain the same, until Spring 2013 when we will officially move to the GHSU campus. My class has been told that we are effectively retaining all of our faculty and staff, and that as of now, we plan to still maintain our curriculum as it is, and even have the opportunity to graduate with an ASU diploma if we wish. However, plans are plans in word only, so considering we graduate a year after the merger is official (Fall 2013), only time will tell what exactly will happen to both my class, and the one at GHSU now. I know here, I have heard that they are still accepting for the ASU BSN starting Fall 2012. I know that GHSU only accepts one time a year, in May, so depending on how far along you are, and when you want to begin, that's the information at this point.

As far as which one is "better," GHSU is rated higher by US News and World Report, and is statistically more competitive, in terms of admissions. It is also an older program, versus ASU which has had an ADN program for about 8 years now, but only within the past 2 years has become a BSN program. I can't speak for the BSN program at GHSU, but my girlfriend is currently enrolled in their MSN/CNL program, and enjoys it thoroughly, however has voiced some concerns over the organization of the program, and lack of communication between faculty and students.

My experience with ASU has also been positive so far, but I would say that the merger has put some undue stress on our faculty, and the pressure of the merger has been palpable throughout. Since you're not from GA, you may not realize, but this merger has happened with virtually no input from either school. When I began at ASU, I had no idea that this merger would be taking place, so for both schools, it is certainly stressful.

In the end, I've heard pros and cons about both programs, to be honest. Essentially, GHSU is a larger program, that is associated with a school that is known for graduate level medical curricula (Medicine, Dentistry, PT, etc.) and has been around for a longer amount of time. ASU is known as being less competitive admissions-wise, but they are associated with a small, state university that has major programs that are largely non-medical, such as Education, Business, etc. My fellow classmates like the fact that the classes are smaller, and campus is easier to navigate, parking is cheaper, as is overall tuition. Knowing people in both the GHSU BSN and CNL programs, as well as BEING in the ASU BSN myself, I don't see a tremendous amount of difference as far as quality of education, to be quite honest. I could understand how it seems that obviously, GHSU's program would be superior educationally, but I think it's much more complicated than who is ranked higher, or admissions standards. The ASU faculty definitely prides itself on giving us a challenging, quality curriculum that will do its best to prepare you for the "real world." From all indications that I've seen/heard, ASU's faculty is easier to access, and is willing to do everything they can to help you succeed. It very much is a family atmosphere. In the end, it's more about the environment you feel more comfortable with.

KonaDog05 · Mar 28, 2012

Thank you both for the information- it was VERY helpful. However, because of the merger it looks the transfer requirements are the same now since I would be starting next Spring (since I have missed both deadlines for transfer applications)- and as of January 2013 they are considered one school. The only was I can transfer would be to restart ALL nursing courses- meaning that last year and a half I spent in nursing school would be thrown away. And because I refuse to do that I am forgoing both the ASU/ GHSU nursing programs. I worked by A** off to maintian a 4.0 to this point and will not throw away all that hard work. I have been referred to the University of South Carolina-Aiken nursing program. At this point it looks like all my courses WILL transfer but it will just take an extra sesmeter or two to graduate. If all else fails I guess I will remain where I am and spend the next year and half separated from my family. But again thank you both for your advice. And best wishes going forward in your schooling and career.

Makahu · Apr 7, 2012

No problem! I certainly don't blame you for not wanting to start over. Good luck with everything-- I hope it all works out for you!

moving to Augusta - GHSU or ASU?

Which is better- GHSU or ASU?