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I know Fitchburg State also has an excellent nursing program. I don't think you can go wrong with any of the schools you mentioned. You are definitely smart to go into nursing right out of high school and be looking into state schools. I think if I were you and I wanted to the full college experience in addition to a great nursing education, I would choose UMASS Amherst! Good luck to you!

I think the accelerated BSN programs are certainly doable if you are able to make that your first priority and you can set aside all other obligations to focus on school. I have heard of others who have kept part-time jobs while doing the accelerated BSN programs. I know for me, my kids will always come first, so I had to choose a program that I think will be manageable. I am starting Mount Wachusett Community College in the fall and it is one evening of class, one of lab and one of clinical (which can be done on the weekend), and will take four semesters. I also have met all pre-reqs besides two, which I will take during the summer. It is definitely a longer road to my goal of MSN (or even BSN), but realistic for me. In terms of the tuition, I would think most people take out loans for most of it. I think even if you are paying $50,000 for tuition, it's still a worthwhile investment and can be payed back over a long period of time. It's all about what is realistic for you! Good luck everyone!!

I agree that it makes the most sense to go on to the accelerated BSN or direct entry MSN, but it is not always feasible. It took my a long time to even consider applying to ASN programs. Last year I was accepted and about to begin the program at Regis. I loved the idea of it for all the reasons mentioned above. They also have an evening option which was perfect for me with two very small children at home. The one problem with that program; the price tag. Now, I'm planning on starting a community college program where the program itself will cost me less than $10,000 as opposed to the BSN at regis for over $60,000 or the MSN for over $100,000. In the end, that is why I chose not to go. But, I do think it is a great program and if you are willing to accept this debt and prepare yourself for it, then it is right for you. There are programs here in MA that allow entrance into MSN programs if you have a Bachelors in another field and an RN license, so there are still many opportunities available even without getting the BSN initially.

Hi, I agree that it really depends on your life right now. I have looked into both accelerated and ASN programs and have decided to go the associate degree route. Right now I have two small children and after a long struggle trying to decide what to do, I decided that there really is no other option for me than to do the associate degree program at night and believe me, I've done my research. You also have to take into consideration how much debt you want to be and how that will affect your life. MCPHS is expensive, but I think worth it to get it done quickly, and it's priced competitively for most accelerated nursing programs. If I didn't have children and was without a lot of debt already, I would prepare myself financially and go the accelerated route. I don't think you can really go wrong either way, LM/RC will be less expensive, but will be a longer road. MCPHS will be a hard, but quick 16 months. In the end it all depends on what is realistic for you. Are you able to drop everything else to complete an accelerated program, because from what I hear that is what you really need to do. Good luck to you and Congratulations on getting into both programs. That is a great accomplishment in and of itself.

Thanks! I guess that's the reality of having kids. They always come first no matter what. Good luck with your nursing career!

Thanks so much Linds1334! Great response. I appreciate the details on the schedule, as that is my greatest hurdle with two little kids. It sounds like you don't have children, but do you know of other people in the program who are managing with kids?? Good luck to you and I may touch base with you again to find out how the clinicals are! Thanks again!

Hi Everyone, I know this is sort of an old post, but I wanted to get some opinions from people who have completed the program. Are you happy you chose the (more expensive) accelerated route? I am planning on beginning an ASN program this fall, but it kills me to know that it'll take me at least three more years if I want to get my BSN, when I could do it in 16 months. Does anyone have any more info on the schedule. From what I understand it is in blocks, right? Like the first 6 months is just classes? Is it typical M-F 9-5? Also, are the clinicals offered day or evening? I appreciate any info on scheduling as I have two young kids. Thanks!

It's an incredibly difficult decision and sometimes when thinking about when to have a child, you realize that the time will never be right, so maybe you should just let nature take its course. But, here is my situation; I have two kids, and was about to begin an accelerated nursing program this past fall (2008) with a 2 year old and a 6 month old. The program was full time evenings, so I was planning on being home with my kids during the day and my husband having them at night. I do not have much in the way of support where I live, besides my husband. The program was also going to cost more than $65,000. So, one week before I was going to start, I backed out. And I am so incredibly happy I did. Though I could have done it (you can do anything) it would have been HELL. My baby didn't start sleeping through the night until 12 months and with everything else, I would have been stressed beyond belief. But, I was sad to not start school at the same time. So, I began applying to Associate programs, and was accepted for this coming fall into an evening program that will take two years. Even still I have mixed feelings about it. I feel like if I start this fall, then that seals the deal that I'm not having any more kids. Additionally, I think it's still going to be insanely difficult because my husband is also in school. It's so hard to know what to do, so I understand where you're at. I really do. I still don't know what my future holds right now. I think the reality is, it is better to get nursing school done BEFORE you have kids, but you have to follow your heart. If you get school done, then you can have your kids and not worry about classes and clinicals and studying. If you have kids now, you will be in for a million more obstacles, but you will have a baby you will love more than anything you can imagine. Anything at all is possible.

Hi, I got my packet last week. I was hoping there was more class schedule info in there, but looks like we'll have to wait for orientation. It sounds like we'll be in orientation together. I'm really looking forward to getting started. It's been a tough decision for me because I have very little kids and a husband whose in school as well. I just want to start before I have time to change my mind (again :))) See you soon! Christy

Hi, I'm planning on starting at MWCC this fall as well, in the evening program. Are you day or evening? I'd also love to hear from anyone whose in the program there and what their thoughts are on it.

Hi, Well, I also have a BS degree in a field other than nursing and debated accelerated BSN, direct entry MSN and ASN programs. I've thought and thought and thought about it and researched every program in my area. But, the truth is you are the only one who has the answer. It all depends on your circumstances. I am starting an associate degree program in the fall, but, I'm 28, have two little kids (3 and 1) and I already have a significant amount of debt and not a lot of money right now. So, if I want to go to school now, a low cost, evening program is really the only thing that makes sense for me at this point in my life. Also, I plan on going back for my masters when the time is right. I know it's gonna be a long road, but that's okay with me because of the stage I'm at in my life. If I didn't have kids and/or my kids were older, I would go for the masters, for sure.. as long as it wasn't too much money. Some of the programs here in MA are over $100,000, so you have to think about the debt too. I really hope some of this helps you. Good luck!

Yeah, I did apply to the evening program. I know it'll be a lot of work, but I'm excited. I can't wait to hear if I got in. I keep calling and they said next week we'll find out.

fabiusgile, After all my searching, my first choice is MWCC. I'm anxiously waiting to hear if I get in. That's great that you really like the program. Do you know if they offer summer nursing courses or do they follow the standard fall, spring, fall, spring schedule? How do you like your clinicals? I can't wait to start!

Wow, Stephanieee.. thank you for your post. I never did apply because I didn't want my start into nursing at a school that doesn't have a good reputation in the area. I'm sorry to hear that you have to transfer out. Have you found another school? I remember hearing a little while back about a murder on the campus, but I thought it was just one of those horrible things and not the norm. That's terrible. Good luck to you!

I think someone on here that went this past year said it was around $20,000, not including books. It's a great deal, but competitive because of it.

I talked to the admissions people and they said $39,000 for this years class I believe. It's hard to find accelerated programs that are much less than that. Umass Boston and Amherst are less.

Hi, I spoke with someone who was in the program, as well as the woman who runs the admissions for it, and I know the schedule includes days, evening and weekends and I believe some online classes too. From what I heard, the clinicals are often 12 hours shifts and you will not get a lot of notice before hand when you have to go to the school or hospital (not sure how that works) to get info for your clinical. You have to be prepared to be flexible with your schedule. I used their website to look up class schedule information as well. They post a lot of their classes and you get an idea when the courses for that program are. I have two kids and considered this program but since it would be quite hike for me, I decided that wouldn't work for me. I think with all of these accelerated programs, you have to be flexible and have a tremendous amount of help with your kids. The girl I spoke to said the program was ALOT of work. FYI Salem State has an on campus daycare.

If it were me, I'd start as soon as possible. No one can predict anything that's going to happen. I don't think there will be a big difference between July and Jan. I would definitely get a job as an aide after you're done with your first clinical or so and hopefully that'll help you get your foot in the door somewhere once you're done. Also, don't wait to apply for new grad positions until after you're done and passed the NCLEX. I know I haven't even started school yet, but I've been doing my research for years!! I can't even wait until September to start (hoping I even get in). Anyway, good luck. I know its a tough decision, but if nursing is really what you want to do, everything will work out!

HI Lana, No problem. I hope that my experience can help you in some way. It's been quite the learning experience for me. I did use my bio degree for a few years after I graduated. I worked in a research lab (which I hated!!) and then I worked in a clinical lab that did genetic testing. I did enjoy that job for the most part. I've always wanted to work in healthcare, originally I wanted to be a doctor, but didn't end up going that route. Anyway, hopefully I'll be an NP someday. Good luck with whatever you do. Since you've wanted to be nurse for a long time and you have a solid science background, I'm sure you'll do great in the program. I attended the orientation for the program I was going to begin but didn't, and they said that the only undergrad degree that can really prepare you for how difficult a nursing degree is, is a science major b/c of labs, etc. Good luck!

Hi, I also have a Biology degree and can't wait to get started on nursing. I was accepted to an accelerated program for this past fall here in the Boston area, but backed out last minute. The program I was about to begin was very expensive (more than $60,000) for the BSN and I have two young kids ( a 6 month old at the time) in addition, I'd heard the market for new grad RNs here was/is really tough. I didn't want to get out of school with all that debt and then not find a job. I've personally decided to apply to ASN programs here and go the longer, more cost effective route. Many people have told me that ASN nurses and BSN nurses make the same to start. Anyway, thats another topic. So, all that being said, my advice to you would be that if you don't have kids and are w/o significant obligation, I would do the accelerated program, no question. You can take out loans for the program and living expenses and find some sort of side work to make some extra money (be creative). I plan on waiting tables for a little while to help. The most common advice I've heard, especially if the job market for new grads is tough in your area, is to get a job as a nurses aid. I will definitely be taking that advice! I wish I had done an accelerated program before I had kids. I think a Bio major is the perfect candidate for it.. oh and do it before you pre-reqs won't qualify anymore!! Good luck!!

Hi, I applied to the LMRC program and I'm hoping to get in for the fall. My suggestion would be to make sure all your application material gets sent in ONE packet. They ask that you do so. I sent everything together, except for my high school transcript which got sent directly from my HS. Unfortunately, they didn't place them together and so this has held up them reviewing my application. I guess they were confused about matching up my maiden name with my married name. I only found out because I contacted the admissions office regarding the status of my application which was not being reviewed b/c of this. Hopefully, I got all the application materials in early enough still that I'll have a chance for this fall. That being said, the admissions office has been very thorough and helpful with all questions and as soon as they discovered the issue they resolved it quickly and were apologetic. Also, I have heard nothing but great things about the program and they have a very high NCLEX pass rate. Good luck to you!

Hi, I was wondering if anyone is attending or has attended the Becker College nursing program? I have read threads in the past that say this is not a good nursing program. I am hoping someone who has direct experience could shed some light on the program. Thanks!!

Hi Julie, I was accepted to Regis for this past fall, but decided not to go right now for personal reasons. That being said, I had a lot of communication with 2 very nice people they are really nice and understanding, perhaps you could ask them if you could extend your date (they may be able to offer some advice at least) Also, I would definitely try contacting MGH, it couldn't hurt anything. I'm sure they understand that you applied to more than one school. I had to forfeit my Regis deposit too and in the end the $500 isn't really going to make a big difference, as long as you're in nursing school working towards your goals.

Congratulations on almost being done! Its great to hear that you really like the program. I've only heard really great things about it. I applied for this fall (09) and I'm still waiting to hear if I get in. I actually got accepted to the accelerated BSN/MSN program at Regis, but decided not to go b/c I have little kids and the program was so expensive. Are all the clinicals at Lawrence Memorial or are some off campus? Did you do the day or evening program? Is there a lot of outside work to do? The commute for me will be a good 50 minutes b/c I'm located west of the city.. do you know of people in the program that commuted from a good distance? Thanks for any more info!

I thought you could only collect unemployment if you are a part-time student and still available to work? It seems strange, and I might be careful making such bold announcements. I was unable to begin a second degree BSN program because I did not get any financial assistance and was unable to afford it. I am also a mom, married and financially struggling.