USA NP program-

graceofone · Nov 19, 2009

It depends on which semester you enter. I would recommend doing all of the pre-reqs (pharm, patho, theory, roles, research, economics) first, no matter where they are in the curriculum. I was able to work 2-3 weeks while just taking pre-reqs but I was a spring entry and so I will have pre-reqs with my clinical courses (the FNP track courses) and it will be impossible for me to work. Even those without pre-req courses They do not expect you to work at all starting with the first clinical semester. USA is okay, there are very few taped lectures and no direction, so you are teaching yourself. I would prefer a sit down come to class program but those are few and far in between. Good luck deciding

meandragonbrett · Nov 19, 2009

you might want to look into obtaining a weekender position. Your finances will be essentially the same for working 24ish hours per week. Then you are free during the week to focus on school.

nikkif75 · Nov 19, 2009

Thanks for the info!

amberfnp · Dec 4, 2009

If you are interested in USA FNP, do the summer start (versus fall or spring). With this curriculum you will finish all your pre-reqs before the clinical semesters start, and with the exception of the first clinical semester, you should only have 2 classes per semester. I chose to put off one of my pre-reqs last spring due to having a baby and boy I wished I hadn't, and it wasn't even one of the harder ones! Some in my class are taking pharm and/or patho with the clinicals. No Way!!

As far as working, I worked full time during the year of pre-reqs. I am now 2 12 hour nights per week. It was doable this semester and I think it will be ok for the spring and fall, but I'm a little concerned about the 180 hours in clinical plus working over the summer. But, like you, I have no choice. I have to bring in a certain amount period. And working nights allows me to do it 2 shifts with the shift diff. I'll just be sleep deprived...