Dr.Shelly

][COLOR=black],sans-serif]Congratulations on your acceptance to both the SLU (Saint Louis University) and UMSL (University of Missouri St. Louis) programs. This is a true indication that you are a strong candidate, and have great potential for success regardless of your choice of program. We at UMSL are very proud of our FNP program and the success of our students in achieving a 100% pass rate on their national certification exams over the past several years. Our nationally recognized faculty pride themselves on our relationships with our students, that is supported by our face to face format, which also fosters building a collegial network of NP colleagues beyond the academic program. This is a very difficult decision, but a good dilemma to have as both are great choices. You may want to consider reaching out to faculty at each program for an in person meeting, to discuss how other working students with families have found success in the one day per week on campus program, and to help you to decide which is the right fit for you. Our very best wishes regardless of your decision. Our faculty looks forward to welcoming you as an NP colleague within the next three years!

First let me say I would hope there is never an admision that takes place where they just take the first in approach. Nobody would risk that for their board pass rates. Second of all, UMSL is in the top 14% of all MSN programs in the nation. UMSL MSN program had 240 applicants for 70 spots this year alone. The pass rate is one of the highest if not the highest in the St. Louis area for NPs. UMSL has a very competitve admission process where a rubric is utilized for your GPA with your years of experience and your admission essay. Military experience as an important asset as well. Applicants are scored and placed accordingly. It would be my guess that your 7 months experience scored you lower not knowing about your 3 minute essay that may have also lowered your overall score. May I also suggest that you ask your future employers, preceptors what program they want their NPs to come from and I am confident you will find UMSL to be very presigious in the St. Louis area. A word of advise, it is never a good idea to put yourself online especially putting down the very College you may wish to attend. Many applicants recognize the value of the UMSL reputation has in the community and are not just looking at the expense of tuition.