RIBN vs Watts vs ABSN

U.S.A. North Carolina

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Hi all!

This is my first post here :) Forgive me if there has already been a thread on this. I'm a 30 something year old mother of two and nursing will be my second degree (I have a bachelor's). Initially, I was looking into an ASBN program but being that it's very intense (not that an ADN isn't) and I have children, I thought it wouldn't be a good idea. I also live in Raleigh so my options are UNC and Duke which are very hard to get into. I am interested in the new RIBN program at Wake Tech which is a 4 year program. First year are prereqs, 2nd and 3rd year nursing classes and sit for NCLEX, then last year are online courses with WSSU to complete a BSN. I have about half of the prereqs done. I have also taken the TEAS test and passed which is pretty much the main requirement for entry. I just recently heard about Watts though and it sounds like a great option as well. I like that the prereqs are taken at night, only 6 months long and I wouldn't have to do a CNA program. I also like that it's very hands on. I would complete an online RN-BSN afterwards. It would be a bit of a drive for me as I live in Raleigh.

Ultimately, I would like to have my BSN or MSN and possibly become a lactation consultant. So which of these 3 programs do you believe is more doable for a stay at home mom of two young children? I know nursing school is tough regardless of where you go but they're such different programs. Should I do the ABSN to finish faster or go to Wake Tech or Watts to have more of a family/school balance? Which, in your opinion, is the most difficult? I know it's my decision but I would love to hear your opinions! Thanks!

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Hi! We are in a very similar situation. I am mid-thirties, second career, kids and I would love to knock out the ABSN in 2 years but I would have to take my pre-reqs over for UNC because I graduated more than 10 years ago :/ Duke doesn't have the 10 year requirement but it is pricey (and as you mentioned - both are hard to get into). I'm looking for the most efficient route. Hopefully others with more experience will chime in with some good information.

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Glad someone else is in the same boat as me! Hopefully we'll get some feedback!

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