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Just remember to do your research my3loves and do what is best for you. :)

eroc is right and makes a great point. You may want to consider a path to the DNP degree. Over the next few years, the Masters degree (for Nurse Practitioner) will be phased-out by the BSN to DNP. There are some really good programs out there now; even some that are flexible enough to allow you to continue to work while studying. Take a look at Brandman University as an example. I am currently on the (ADN) RN to DNP plan with them and they offer one of few BSN to DNP Pediatric ACUTE care NP programs. With them, you can go from RN to DNP in 4 years!

1. Make sure the university you choose is regionally accredited (WASC, Middle States, New England, North Central, etc) 2. Make sure the university's nursing programs are nationally accredited by eith CCNE or NLNAC. Typically, accredited schools proudly display this info on their websites and marketing materials (accredited universities and programs WANT you to know this) If you are in doubt, I would check with www.ed.gov where you can search by school... Choosing a fully accredited RN to BSN program will allow you to transfer your credits and/or degree should you choose to continue your education at another institution. Using Walden as an example- 1. Walden is regionally accredited by the North Central Association 2. Walden's BSN program is nationally accredited by CCNE :)

I want to second gingerpeachee and Chuckster's feedback recommending choosing a program which is fully accredited - nationally and regionally. You want to look for a university with regional accreditation and a RN to BSN program which is nationally accredited by either CCNE or NLNAC. Also- be advised that CCNE now requires RN to BSN programs to have a clinical component in order to receive initial accreditation or re-accreditation. Personally I would steer clear of any RN to BSN program with no clinical component not just because this could impact their re-accreditation, but nursing is a practice discipline.... for me, I am pursuing my BSN because I want to expand my skill-set to include community health and leadership- which I am now getting from the clinical component in my chosen program :)

CCNE sent a letter to schools with RN to BSN programs notifying them of the changes. I am afraid I don't have that to share with you, but you can view the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) White Paper which outlines the recommendations by the AACN RN-BSN Task Force. You can view it here: http://www.aacn.nche.edu/aacn-publications/white-papers/RN-BSN-White-Paper.pdf The Task Force recommendations led to the changes in CCNE requirements. CCNE is not requiring a specific number of clinical hours, but all programs must have some clinical to maintain accreditation. I hope this is helpful :)

There are some fine programs out there, but be careful choosing an RN to BSN program that has NO clinical component. The reason I point this out: if a program is accredited by CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education,) and seeks re-accreditation (or is seeking initial accreditation,) and does not have a clinical component- they will be disappointed... CCNE now requires a clinical component for all RN to BSN programs. Seeking an accredited RN to BSN program will be extremely important for you since you plan to continue your education beyond BSN... you want to make sure your credits will transfer to your choice of accredited NP programs.