JasonInfinity

Wow I was actually un-aware of that distinction between "approved" and "accredited" - thanks for clarifying. My next question would be: why do approved programs even exist if they are not accredited? Are they all seeking accreditation?

In case anybody is still looking, I found one offered at Arkansas State University Technical Center, located at 5504 Krueger Rd in Jonesboro. I found this on an updated list of state approved LPN programs in Arkansas and the phone number for the practical nursing program is (870) 932-2176. This is currently the only approved LPN course in Jonesboro.

Not sure if there are any ADN programs in Atlanta, but there are a handful of BSN programs such as Georgia State, Emory University and Mercer University. You can see a complete list of state approved BSN programs here: http://nurseslink.org/rn-programs/georgia/

I would definitely recommend expanding your geographic area of focus slightly just to give yourself more program options. Even if you find a great program that you want to attend sometimes you run into long waiting lists, high tuition costs, etc. But there are tons of programs in and around the Ventura area. I found a long list here: http://nurseslink.org/lpn-programs/california/ Let us know which one you choose and how you like it. Best!

I think this boils down to a societal debate about the importance of credentials. I would argue that an ADN nurse with several years of experience is equally qualified (if not more qualified) than a newbie BSN nurse. I believe that in any professional field you learn more once you actually begin performing the job on a daily basis than you do during the education or training period. That being said, American society places heavy emphasis on educational achievement and degree level. I think that many people with advanced degrees feel threatened by those with lesser degrees because if they can achieve the same or better results with less education it undermines the importance of the higher degree. This can sometimes make those with higher degrees in-secure or defensive about someone with lesser education being considered their equal. At the end of the day it is about the knowledge and experience we possess and how well we perform our jobs. Lets put degree level aside and focus on providing the best patient care possible.:up:

I can't speak to the ASU issue, but it appears that several technical colleges and training schools have approved RN programs in Phoenix. There is Everest College, MaricopaNursing, Carrington College, ITT Tech, Brookline College and Grand Canyon (online). Contact info for each program can be found here: http://nurseslink.org/rn-programs/arizona/. Does anyone know if these are decent programs?

I would suggest that you try some Ecco brand shoes with a breathable mesh toe.