I am 38 years old, I have two kids in elementary school and a husband who supports us while I go to school. Financially, we are stable, but there isn't any extra money in the budget for tuition.
At the advise of my academic advisor, I applied to two nursing schools ("Don't put all your eggs in one basket"). One is a BSN program and one is an ASN program. I have satisfied all the pre-reqs for both programs.
Today I found out that I have been accepted into both programs. Now I must decide which one I will attend.
Both programs are essentially an equal distance from my house. Both programs are respected (as far as I know), and both programs will offer clinicals at respected hospitals where I might be able to make contacts for future employment.
Here are the pros/cons:
ADN program pros--way cheaper, like probably $10,000 or more, cheaper. 4 semesters until graduation.
cons--graduate with an associates degree. Probably unable to get financial aid through this school. Would most likely (though not definitely) have to rely on scholarships and self-funding, that would be a struggle. A bit more difficult to drive to, especially in the AM.
BSN program pros--graduate with a bachelors (it is a distinct possibility that I will pursue a masters, but it will be at least 5 years down the road). Financial aid is available, could still pursue scholarships, but wouldn't be a dire necessity. Easier drive.
cons--Way more expensive, more loans to repay after graduation. 4.5 semester until graduation.
Are there any other things I should be considering but am overlooking?
Congrats on your decision! I will *hopefully* be in the same position next year. I am finishing my pre-reqs and plan to apply to both types of programs in Jan. My programs are slightly different. I have a previous BA so my BSN program would be an accelerated break-neck 3 semesters (including a a summer). The ADN is 4 semesters. It's such a hard decision and I lean back and forth regularly. My main concern is the stress on my family of the accelerated program. I have 4 boys and my youngest will be 5 when I start. I'd love to hear how things go for you as you start you program. Congrats again!!
Now I must decide which one I will attend.
sKris
109 Posts
Congrats on your decision! I will *hopefully* be in the same position next year. I am finishing my pre-reqs and plan to apply to both types of programs in Jan. My programs are slightly different. I have a previous BA so my BSN program would be an accelerated break-neck 3 semesters (including a a summer). The ADN is 4 semesters. It's such a hard decision and I lean back and forth regularly. My main concern is the stress on my family of the accelerated program. I have 4 boys and my youngest will be 5 when I start. I'd love to hear how things go for you as you start you program. Congrats again!!