"normal" vs "alternative" nursing programs

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Has anyone else had a problem with other nurses turning up their nose because you went through an alternative program? By alternative, I mean I went to Medical Careers which is an all year accelerated program through ECPI. I know someone going through South University and 2 at University of Phoenix, etc. There are lots of newer programs that are board of nursing approved that can get you the same ASN or BSN degree only faster. I have had nurses somewhat look down on me because I didn't go to one of the "real" (and I quote) colleges or universities here in Richmond, Va. I feel like I am just as prepared to work as anyone else! Yes I got done in less than a year and a half but I also went year round (seriously, no summer break or anything!), yet the fact that I was done faster makes me less of a nurse? When did your program start dictating your abilities? Am I wrong for feeling a little upset by this? Any response is greatly appreciated but I would especially love to here from anyone that has gone through one of these newer programs.

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My program is considered "normal" and it is a 22 month long ADN where you go year round with no breaks.

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If the school gives one the ability to sit for the NCLEX, then that is all that matters, unless the individual expects to enter into a work or education setting where one's alma mater is scrutinized. It's the nursing license that gets you in the door.

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Specializes in School Nursing.

Did you pass the NCLEX? If so, you're a nurse! Who cares what the others think!!!

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I passed the NCLEX first time and thats how I feel, if you can sit for the NCLEX and you pass youre a nurse but I am meeting people that don't seem to feel the same way. Should I be bothered or should I just look at it as another opinion?

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Specializes in pediatrics, public health.

I did a 12 month accelerated BSN program. I did not encounter negative attitudes about this, in fact some of my fellow RNs at my first job had gone through the same program.

We didn't actually discuss what nursing school we went to all that much, and I don't see how it's relevant. If you're doing your job well, that's all anyone needs to know. If anyone makes negative comments about the school/program you went to, just ignore them!

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I passed the NCLEX first time and thats how I feel, if you can sit for the NCLEX and you pass youre a nurse but I am meeting people that don't seem to feel the same way. Should I be bothered or should I just look at it as another opinion?

You know what they say about opinions. ;)

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lol that just made my day!

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Specializes in Hospital - Internal Med, Onc.

I did the Univ of Phoenix LPN-BSN program and contrary to popular belief, it's not an online program and I earned my degree. Classroom every week for 26 months, more papers and presentations than I can count, quizzes and HESI tests, and clinical hours wearing scrubs that made me crazy, intermittent crying and freaking out, not enough sleep and no time for my family/friends... just like a "traditional" program. As with my LPN year, I worked full time through the whole program. I studied my tail off for the NCLEX.. 75 questions in 90 minutes and passed the first time.

The nurses who I've worked with for the past few years don't consider me a lesser nurse because of the program I went through. To them, I'm a nurse who was limited by scope but I'm their resource on the floor.

When doing interviews for new grad positions, I've had to do some education about the nursing program I completed but I think it was helpful for those soon to graduate. Hold your head high and know that you are a nurse!:)

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Specializes in NICU, ER.

Hi I went through Excelsior College(EC) and finished in Sept of 2009. It is a distance learning program where you self study all of the class room portion, and take a 3 day test to prove you can do all the clinical portion of the program. I graduated with my ASN and I sat and passed the NCLEX on 1st attempt. I have had some negative reaction, however most people who take the time to learn about the process of my program are amazed of the process and motivation it took to complete the program. When I was a Paramedic someone I respected told me "It is not the school that makes the Paramedic, it is the person that makes the Paramedic." I have applied the same principal to my nursing school. I am now a very happy NICU rn. So believe in yourself and dont worry about what others think. Good Luck!

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Specializes in MCH,NICU,NNsy,Educ,Village Nursing.

Aw, I wouldn't give them another thought. Some people are just "snobbish" when it comes to schools. Plus, they may really not understand, and could become a staunch supporter if they did. Congrats on passing and becoming a nurse! (I do understand a bit--I'm getting ready to attend an ANP post master's program--all online except for clinical hours (over 500 of those), and I get many quizzical looks. Folks just need to focus on what's really important and not that kind of junk, imo.

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