Private school or state school?

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Dear Nurse Beth,

I recently got accepted into two different schools, one is CSUSM and Roseman University and want opinion on which option should I choose. Roseman has 16 months which i can finished faster and start work earlier, whereas CSUSM finished in 2 years time. I don't know which is more important? Getting the licensing faster or choosing the school in the state that I live, which is CA. Private school is more expensive than state university, which is another setback in my decision to go to Roseman. What do you think? Thanks

Dear Accepted to Two Schools,

Congrats on getting accepted to not one, but two nursing schools!

Without endorsing any particular school, I think many state schools have fine programs and cost far less than private schools.

I attended CSUB for my Bachelors and my Masters degrees, and I had nowhere near the school debt many graduates have.

I don't know anything about the two schools you mention, but all things being equal (meaning if they are both reputable and accredited),

the only advantage of the second one is graduating sooner, but at a higher cost.

Accelerated programs are intense and if you opt for a 16 month program, be prepared for it to be even more so.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

Author, "Your Last Nursing Class: How to Land Your First Nursing Job"...and your next!