Ottawa U vs. McMaster U --need help

I wouldn't say that MAC is hands on...it's very heavily research based. I'm glad I was an RpN with clinical skills before I entered the program. I don't know how the full 4 year program is, but based on 3rd year students doing placement on my floor the skill set is very lacking even by 3rd year. But I do love MAC as a school, great atmosphere and beautiful campus.

I'm a Mac student as well and I couldn't agree more. The program is lacking in the hands-on department, and as was mentioned above, it is extremely focused on research.

I'm an RPN currently, and my classmates and I have all had multiple discussions about this. We all agree that if we weren't already RPNs with real-life experience, there is no way we would graduate from Mac feeling confident with our skills in a clinical setting. With that being said, however, a nurse is far more than just his/her skills. It is the knowledge that makes a nurse, an area Mac really focuses on, and the hands-on skills can be gained over time with experience.

Overall, I'm pretty happy with my time so far as a Mac student.

Thank you so much for replying. That's actually really good to know, and from what I hear it's still an enjoyable program. Would you prefer more hands-on or traditional experience, or do you prefer it this way? How did you handle 7 courses; was that extremely stressful? I know this is a subjective question, but would you travel away from home (parents are willing to pay for first year, which I'm happy about. That means lots of student loans though -_- ), or is more practical, in your opinion, to stick to traditional?

I would go with Mac even if the scholarship is not that high. I hear great stuff about it. Starting hands on would be better that waiting. I believe you start hands on in 3rd year at ottawa u (or a bid in 2nd year, not a 100% sure).