Reopening of University of Thomas Nursing Program

[Cleopf01]

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/health/6934344.html

Does Houston really need another nursing program? Now don't get me wrong, I graduated from St. Thomas, and it's a wonderful school. However, I think opening a nursing program would be a bad move. I hear new grads are are having a tough time finding a job now. The addition of a new program would only make it worse.

Thoughts?

[SerenePeach]

I went to the University of St. Thomas for my undergrad as well. I'm not sure re-opening up this program is a great idea since, as you stated, new grads are having a tough time finding jobs. The article talks about a 'nursing shortage' but I don't believe that to be the case. We already have quite a few options for nursing school in the Houston area. What I'd like to see is a direct entry Master's program in Houston, or a midwifery program.

Also, the program was shut down last time because of economic reasons; will they be able to keep the program up and running with enough faculty to justify opening this program?

And, I bet this program is going to be really expensive!

[Cleopf01]

SerenePeach, I completely agree with you.

Judging from the enormous student loans I still have, you're right, the program will be extremely expensive.

I wish there was something we could do to stop them from opening a new program. Many applicants today use private schools as their back-up option because of the cost (understandably so).