Nursing school assistance

[Krystle Gallarzo]

Hi everyone,

I m struggling with some further education options and would love some helpful feedback. I am currently an Lvn in Southern California. I have applied to some bridge programs (Lvn- ADN) with no luck. All at community colleges. I have been trying for the last two years. It's very competitive here in California. I recently applied to an ABSN program in Nevada and was accepted. I'll be able to complete my BSN in 15months. I am 34 so finishing as quickly as possible is ideal however the program is very expensive about 60-70k. I'd have to take out personal loans which I really don't want to to do. Additionally, it's so rigorous I wouldn't be able to work while in school. And I'd have to relocate from California for the duration of the program. So what I'm asking is should I wait a few more years to hopefully get into an ADN program that's significantly cheaper but I'll be very late in my career considering I'd still have to go back for BSN. There is an ABSN program in California, Concordia, but I here very negative experiences there and am worried about that. I'm not sure what to do at this point and any useful information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you. 

[Julia Liou, RN]

Hi Krystale,

Great on you for deciding to go into nursing! That's a lot to think about. If you need some insight into some BSN programs in California, here is a good resources from AllNurses: Best Nursing Schools in California | 2024 - Nursing Degree Programs (allnurses.com)

If affordability for the degree is more important to you, AllNurses also has a good article on affordable BSN programs for your reference: 10 Cheapest Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Programs | 2024 - Nursing Degree Programs (allnurses.com)

Honestly, I would right a pros and cons list to decide, however take into consideration the salary you'd be making as a nurse after you graduate. It won't take you that long to pay off the degree once you start working, versus take more time to apply and get into a program that is in California. Also, the cost of living in Nevada is probably cheaper, so it might offset the overall costs. Best of luck!