Bobsdaughter

I started at the Allegheny campus then transferred to Boyce for summer. I'm still at Boyce. I wasn't able to transfer back to Allegh (sections were full). From what I understand, the flip flopping is not looked upon well. The different campuses DO use different textbooks and the program varies greatly. Switching campuses is not easy. I really, really liked the Allegheny evening program. I found it very manageable.

No problem. Definitely get a Litman stethoscope, and make sure you put a label on it with your name. They run about $100 but you really want a good one - there is a big difference in quality. Look online for one - or maybe the uniform store. Oh, you'll also need a watch with a second hand. And I think it's a good idea to buy a BP cuff to practice (unless you already know how to take BP). You can wear white or navy longsleeves under the scrubs. At least you can at our campus.

I'm a current CCAC nursing student and you are all correct in that they are not necessarily straightforward with what you'll need. Here are my suggestions: Yes, get a stethoscope. You definitely need one. I suggest getting a high-quality one. White shoes, they don't have to be nursing shoes. Just make sure they are all white. Pen light, scissors, etc. When you get your book list, I suggest trying to find the books online, it's much cheaper than the bookstore. Each campus is different so make sure the booklist is for your campus! You have to get a drug test too. There are several places around the PGH area that do these. All of your clearances take about 2 weeks - oh, and you need to get the Hep B vaccine if you haven't already. If you have, you need to show them the results of the titer test. Good luck!

I suggest finding an Associate's degree program (look into local community/technical colleges). Roughly 2-3 years will get you an associates degree and will allow you to sit for the NCLEX. After that, you're an RN, then you can get your BSN fairly easily. Plus, if you're working at a hospital, most offer tuition reimbursement.

I'd suggest against Boyce. Take a look in this forum on what some students are saying and consider it the truth. There is a huge difference among the different campuses (not just faculty - different books are used, tests are completely different, how lab is run, etc.). Do some research and try to find out which campus people consider the best one. Trust me, it's not about being "spoon fed", it's about being treated and tested fairly, which unfortunately, doesn't happen at all of the campuses.

If you're planning on going to Allegheny, I strongly suggest applying to the evening/weekend program. The staff is far superior to the day staff.

I'm currently attending CCAC and it's great. The academic load is very manageable, subject material is not too tough and it's very affordable. As far as jobs for student nurses, I suppose you could look into a job as an aid, although, I'd think there would be better alternatives than that. Good luck.

I got the list of required books at registration yesterday but was wondering if anyone out there had the ISBN numbers? That's the best way of assuring you have the right edition if you order it online. Anyway, I was going to call and ask Monday, but if anyone already has that information, would you mind passing it on? From what I understand, all books on the list are "required" but two, "Fundamentals of Nursing, Standards & Practice + Student Handbook & Studyguide" and "Med-Surg Nursing: Critical Thinking in Client Care + Study Guide" are the must-haves.

I'm in too! Allegheny Evening/Weekend program. Yeah!

I'd be willing to bet that the letters are mailed on Friday, meaning most local people would get them on Saturday. That way, they get less calls to the office, (since they are received on a weekend). A lot of places seem to do this. Just an idea. Good luck!

I'm SO glad there has been traffic on this blog! No, CCAC doesn't give out a ton of information. As a matter of fact, the adviser I met with back in June actually gave me "bad" information, but that's neither here, nor there. For anyone looking at this blog that is attending CCAC's nursing program currently; How does scheduling work? Are the students able to chose their schedule, or is it assigned? Also, are you able to "switch" programs ever, (ex. switch from Eve/Weekend to Day program say like the second semester)? I'm just curious about the "feel" of the program since the information I've gotten has been so limited. Thanks again and best of luck to all!

EXACTLY! It mentions in the admissions packet that you get a ".75" added to your "score" if you have an "A" in either A&P 1 or 2 or in Micro but doesn't mention what the "scoring" system is. Perhaps it simply means that if you have shown you can do good work in those classes, you are given more consideration? Or maybe it means that literally .75 is added on to your GPA, (assuming the NET is nothing more than a "weed out", that they don't actually consider the score but just make sure you achieved the minimum score). Just a thought. In any event, it sounds like it's a bit more competitive than I had originally thought. I can't help but think though, from the few that have responded on this post, that we have are all in good shape. Retention is key, it keeps money in their pockets, so I can't help but think that those with previous degrees are in better shape, (meaning we've proven that we can make it through a program).

Thanks for the info! I figured many applications would be eliminated b/c of incomplete information. I was surprised at how convoluted and complicated the application process was. We sound like we are in about the same scenario as far as background/GPA. I too have only my nursing classes to take since I took A&P 1 and 2 this summer and am in Micro now, (the other classes I took in either undergrad or graduate school). This is my third go-round at finding my right profession! Good luck! Just curious, which was your first choice?

Hmmm. Interesting. Did you actually get this information directly from CCAC? I wonder how many of the applicants had all of their information complied, (ie. were any missing prereqs, etc.). I don't know about your experience, but when I sat down with an advisor at Allegheny back in June, I practically had to pry information out of him. I had all of my prereqs and application materials completed, but it wasn't really through his help. Also, do any of you know which campus for Spring, (Allegheny or Boyce) is more "popular", (had the most applicants), or which program, Day or Eve./Weekend is more popular? Just curious. My first choice was Allegheny, Eve./Weekend. I had a 3.3 GPA in my college credits, an "A" in A&P1 and 2 and so/so scores on my NET, (75%, I think). What about you all?

Well, I actually haven't started. I'm in the process of completing my prereqs right now. I was going to start at Mercy this past August, but the schedule was just too tough for me to work out, (I have three kids). I applied to CCAC for the Spring 2010 term which will start in Jan. From what I understand, if you have the prereqs and a qualifying score on the NET test, you are accepted. I believe they "weed out" many students, (as do most programs). I was able to transfer credits since I have a bachelor's in a different field. CCAC's program is a little bit different from Mercy/Shadyside since it's actually an Associate's degree. As a result, you need Psych, Human Growth & Development along with an English Comp class, Math class, etc. There's just more flexibility as far as scheduling which was very important to me. Once I figured the difference b/t the tuition reimbursement vs. just paying for CCAC plus factoring in the tax credit, it made more sense to go that route for me personally. Although, dont' get me wrong, the tuition reimbursement is a great deal, (for Mercy in particular since it's the full amount), if you are flexible and can adhere to their schedule. Check out CCAC's website. Look under "Allied Health Programs/RN". It covers pretty much all of the information. Good luck.

You really should look into CCAC as well. The tuition forgiveness is alluring, yes, but Shadyside's option really isn't that good if you think about it. You have to sign a contract for 2 years yet still have to pay 10-15 grand? Mercy is a better deal, but there are MANY ways in which you can "default" from the loan. Even though you have to "pay" for CCAC, you can explore FAFSA loans, PLUS, there is the Obama tax credit which (I believe), gives you a $2500 annual tax credit, (for the next two years, I believe). Also, part of the two-year committment is not just working for UPMC, but it HAS to be on a 24/7 floor. Meaning, not all UPMC nursing jobs fall within the parameters of the contract. Just some food for thought. There are a lot of nice community hospitals out there, St. Clair, Jefferson, Ohio Valley, as well. They may pay slightly less, but have free parking, smaller facilities, etc. All things to consider when looking at the "big picture".

After MUCH research, and going back and forth many, many times. I've decided to attend CCAC. I applied for Spring Semester admittance. From my perspective, the Shadyside option wasn't worth it. Two years of work for that amount of money didn't seem like a good deal to me. Another option to consider is Mercy. As of this past year, they were still offering full reimbursement for the two year committment. As far as why I chose CCAC, with the Obama tax credit for tuition, and the fact that I didnt' have to sign a contract ot work for UPMC for 2 years. Plus, CCAC's schedule is a bit more flexible than Mercy or Shadyside.

Just curious if any who have applied have heard if they've been accepted to CCAC Nursing program for Spring 2010 admittance? Also, does anyone out there know what the likelihood is of getting your fist choice?

OK, great. Good to know. Even though I live in the South Hills of Pittsburgh, I'm still going to apply to Boyce as my first choice. Thanks again for the information.

Excellent, thanks for the info! Also, if you don't mind my asking, was Boyce your first choice? Do you know if people usually get their first campus choice? Also, if the lab/lecture you're referring to a nursing class or another course like A&P, Micro, etc.? Good luck, by the way!

Hello. I am in the process of applying to CCAC's nursing school and am trying to decide between Allegheny Campus and Boyce. The appeal of Boyce is the "Fast Track" option, also the fact that they have "web-enhanced" courses. Can anyone out there tell me how the "web-enhanced" option works, (I'm assuming some or all lecture is online). Also, where are the clinical experiences at Boyce, (ie. how far out are you traveling). Also, can you give me a "sample" schedule? Are you able to chose your class times/clinical days or are you just assigned? Any information would be GREATLY appreciated. Thanks!

Just curious if anyone out there is attending in the fall.

I received my acceptance letter today! Was very happy to hear. Again, I'm a native Pittsburgher so if you have any questions, I'd be happy to give advice. Since you are both young, I'd say you'd be best off either looking into the areas near the universities, (Pitt, Carlow & CMU) Oakland area, (most areas in and around Oakland are students but some areas can be dicey), Shadyside, (can be pricey), Friendship, (less-expensive alternative), Bloomfield, (same as Friendship). All of these areas are considered "City of Pittsburgh" and are on the bus line and are close to Mercy and Carlow. A general rule - stay away from any apartment "complexes" (at least in the city area). Another alternative would be to go to a close suburb that is on the "T", (light-rail) line. You'd have some safe and affordable rental options there as well, Dormont and Mt. Lebanon. Both are close options to Mercy/Carlow. There are no good alternatives that are very close to Mercy Hosp, (walking distance). The hospital itself is not in a very good neighborhood. Duquesne University is right next door so there may be some off-campus type housing but otherwise the neighborhood by the hospital is just kind of desolate.

Just curious, how long did it take after you submitted all of paperwork, to hear of your acceptance? I'm patiently waiting to hear of my (hopeful) acceptance as well. Also, I live in Pittsburgh, I have my entire life, so if either of you have any questions, please feel free to ask. It's a great city with lots of very safe and affordable living options.

Interesting point. I was aware of the fact they didn't perform tubal ligations in the past but am wondering if they have "softened" their stance on that ,(and other reproductive rights issues) due to the merger with UPMC? Your mentioning that has provoked thought as I do consider such issues relevant. In any event. I am applying to both schools and waiting to see about acceptance. Unfortunately, Shadyside's tuition forgiveness program has changed dramatically.