Northeastern vs MGH vs UMASS Boston ABSN

[jbh1919]

Hello,

I am in the beginning stages of applying to nursing school. I am looking at three accelerated boston programs-Northeastern, UMass Boston, and MGH. I was wondering if people who have been to these programs could provide me some insight on their pros and cons? Specifically, what were the clinical placements like, how was finding a job after, and anything else that comes to mind. If it makes a difference I am planning on going into pediatric nursing.

I am definitely applying to umass boston because of its price. Do people feel it isn't as vigorous as the other two private schools? If so, where is it lacking?

Between MGH and Northeastern any major differences I should be aware of?

Any help would be much appreciated! Thank you!!

[gopats1234]

Hey! I just applied to UMass and I am in the process of applying to MGH. I have a friend in the Northeastern program and she LOVES it. She is in clinical now at Mass General and was at Children's hospital last term.

All of the programs are competitive, UMass especially because it is the most affordable. As for everything else I really dont know... but I hope this helps a little bit :)

[jbh1919]

Hello @ees2018

Congrats on getting your first app in!! This is definitely helpful to know that your friend loves it! I had read some iffy reviews about it, but they were all from back when the program first originated, so that is good to know it is now a strong program.

Thank you!

[gbrotske, BSN, RN]

I'm about to graduate from the Northeastern ABSN program and besides the price, I can't think of too many substantial negatives. I'm sure every program has drawbacks but I didn't encounter any that would make me do a different program if I had to do it over. Some people had issues getting their senior practicum placement but I think if you just stick with standard med-surg instead of a speciality, you won't have an issue. With that said, I do have at least 2 friends who were at Children's for practicum, but they sort of had to arrange it themselves which wasn't recommended. There may be some changes with the practicum process in the future though.

Clinicals were amazing, but it depends on where you live. I live in Boston, so they placed me at MGH, Children's, Boston Medical Center, etc. If you live outside of the city, you'll likely get somewhat smaller hospitals but I think some of them are still pretty good places for clinical. The first semester was absolutely challenging but it got progressively less demanding. I don't have a job yet but I've heard many people say that NEU nurses are highly regarded.

Good luck!