Paramedic to RN

Nurses General Nursing

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Hi there. I am new to this forum and NOT a nurse (yet). Been a medic for 17 years and want to become an RN. Taking a traditional course on campus is pretty much out of the question while working.

1.Am looking into the Excelsior online program. Anyone familiar with this?

2. Illinois doesn't accept online programs for RN as far as I can tell so far, however I should be able to work in the VA facilities. Anyone with experience in this?

Thanks for any help.

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Specializes in Peds Homecare.
https://www.excelsior.edu/
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Specializes in multispecialty ICU, SICU including CV.

I would do a lot more research before committing to Excelsior's program. Illinois isn't the only state that won't accept Excelsior grads for licensure, and there are some states out there that previously did take them and they no longer are. I think it would be a crying shame to pay for a program and go through the coursework and not be able to be licensed in all 50 states. The VA is a great employer, but I wouldn't assume especially in this market that you would be able to get a job there. I think you are seriously limiting your options by doing one of these programs. There is also a lot of controversy re: the quality of the education of these types of programs (there is no clinical work) which is why some states won't accept them for licensure.

My BFF at work is a former paramedic. He went through an ADN program at a community college. He did have to cut his hours down to go to school. I think if you want to go to a reputable school, this is really your only option. Anything else will be cutting corners on your RN education.

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Specializes in Med/Surg, Ortho, ASC.

In what capacity could you work for the VA? If you cannot be licensed as an RN, you certainly could not work for them as an RN.

Do a search for Excelsior here....there's a very recent thread asking for signatures on a state petition. Bottom line seems to be that if you want to be an RN now or in the foreseeable future, Excelsior would not be your best use of time and money.

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this is from excelsior's website and i think it's all one really needs to know.

the ec nursing program is designed in accordance with the requirements for registered nurse programs in new york state. excelsior college graduates who meet eligibility requirements are eligible to take the registered nurse licensure examination (nclex-rn) in new york state. our graduates are also eligible for licensure in most other states by examination or endorsement.

rn licensure information

state boards of nursing have different requirements for rn licensure and endorsement. you are responsible for determining the legal criteria for licensure in the state where you wish to practice. graduation from an approved program does not guarantee eligibility for licensure. you must contact the state board of nursing in the state where you wish to practice if you need information about the specific licensure requirements of that state. the national council of state boards of nursing web site provides web site addresses and contact information for each state board.

some states have additional requirements for excelsior college graduates.

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I have been a Paramedic for the past 22 years. I am also an RN that graduated from Excelsior. It is a great program for Paramedic. I live in California and California does not currently recognize Excelsior grads. I licensed in Nevada State. I can work here in California as an RN at the VA and Federal Hospitals. After 1 years of clinical experience in an acute care facility, California will grant licensure to me through endorsement. Don't listen to the Excelsior bashing. I am also currently enrolled in the Excelsior BSN program.

Robin Kneer RN, Paramedic

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Try Indiana Wesleyan online. There are other good programs out there. When choosing a school look for one that has a great traditional reputation then see if they offer online delivery. With your situation I would talk to a college advisor in your area and see if they have any suggestions. You will find that as a nurse you will always be fighting for respect within this profession, so don't start out with a poor choice for a school.

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I've worked with a few nurses that have used Excelsior after getting their LPN and they were great nurses. Most people I know have respect for those choosing to go this route because it does take discipline. It is great for that already have skills and don't have the time or desire to go the traditional route.

I would be hesitant only because you live in a state that doesn't recognize them.

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Specializes in Med/Surg, Ortho, ASC.

"Don't listen to the Excelsior bashing. "

That statement is intrue and unnecessary. All posters are only trying to point out the potential downfalls of the OP's stated course.

Stating facts does not constitute "bashing." And the fact is that an Excelsior education does present extra challenges.

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Specializes in Peds and adult ED, trauma.

I've been a medic in IL for going on 7 years and an ED RN for going on 2 years. I looked @ excelsior and decided against it because of the licensing issues. That being said, Excelsior seems like a good program--for the proper student. Someone who has a strong base of knowledge and is highly self-motivated is more likely to do well. Remember you can always work in a neighboring state (though the pay may be lower, as is the case in WI). It's still a raise compared to average EMT-P pay, from my recollection at least. Don't be discouraged, but realize the limitations up front. Supposedly, IDPR will grant an IL license after a period of years but I've heard it can be a troublesome process (search this site for threads on this issue, I recall finding some when I was looking into Excelsior). Whatever path you choose, I applaud you for seeking to advance your level of licensure. My job fulfillment has advanced to a new level and I've got expodentially more opportunities for professional growth and advancement, and no more 24 or 48 hr shifts!

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Specializes in Critical Care.
Hi there. I am new to this forum and NOT a nurse (yet). Been a medic for 17 years and want to become an RN. Taking a traditional course on campus is pretty much out of the question while working.

1.Am looking into the Excelsior online program. Anyone familiar with this?

2. Illinois doesn't accept online programs for RN as far as I can tell so far, however I should be able to work in the VA facilities. Anyone with experience in this?

Thanks for any help.

I didn't do the Excelsior, but I've worked with people who have. Talking to them, the major problems they had with the program was the high cost of the program, and the "work at your own pace." Many of them found it hard to stay motivated working at their own pace.

They've also had problems scheduling their final clinical evalution. They said that it had a waiting period of several months (3+ months). And the cost of the final evaluation was high.

Not to mention I've heard that Excelsior has come close to losing accreditation. I'm not sure how your schedule is with life and work, but I was able to do traditional school hours while working in EMS. Of course my schedule was a 14 hour shift every Fri-Sun night, which sometimes meant going straight to work or school from the other. But it can be done.

All of that being said, I did work with one person who liked the excelsior program alot. He was able to stay motivated and able to work through the material very fast. I think he completed the program in about a year. I guess it depends on your life, schedule, and motivation. Good luck with what you choose.

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Specializes in Tele.

I wonder of your community college offers an online program??

At Broward College (formerly Broward community college in florida) offers the ASN program totally online for health care professionals and associates or bachelors educated students.

so perhaps the cc or college offer the ASN program

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