$70K to get an ADN is nuts. $70K - I've seen this pricetag on a lot of direct entry programs and that sounds about right, but for an ADN? And yes, I know it's not the actual degree and it's mostly living expenses, but still.
I agree w/ the above post, could you put this off for a few years until your child starts elementary school? At least this way, you'll have a good chunk of the day covered while your child is in school and may only need to pay for a few hours of childcare M-F. There are even after school programs your child might be able to engage in which may even leave you not having to pay any child care.
Do you just not have any family in the area or are they just unable to help out due to them also having to work?
Another thing to take into consideration is where is your child going to go for childcare if you have to do a clinical at night? Just because the nursing program is during the day does not mean you may not have to attend clinicals at night and/or weekends during your schooling. Clinicals can also be far away from where you live as well. Especially in these COVID-19 times, where many schools are scrambling anywhere to get their students into clinicals. This is something you also need to keep in mind.
In the end, it's up to you. I think it's a high price, but I also realize sometimes you have to take the hit to get ahead. My main worry/concern is you have a young child and you're a single mother who will have a mountain of debt after graduation. Make your child the priority and assure his/her wellbeing regardless. School isn't going anywhere and will always be there.
Good luck!
