Check out USUniversity.edu It's affordable, online, with excellent staff and support, and no exhaustive application process. Also, don't let "certain people" discourage you from reaching your goals because you live in the real world and don't want to spend the next 10 years jumping through hoops at an elitist school. In the end, we all take the same competency test and no one cares where you graduated from, just that you have the degree and qualifications. It's up to the individual to study hard, and continue to learn beyond formal education to provide the best possible care for your patients. Good luck on your journey! You can do it!