USC or Kaiser?

Published

I've done some research on getting into CRNA programs for Kaiser and University Southern California (USC). I just need some opinions on the best path to get into the program.

I'm graduating from an ADN program this December and I'm planning to work in ICU for one to two years to gain some experience.

Kaiser requires BSN...which I don't have at the moment...but I do have a Bachelor's in Biochemistry, which USC will accept. Kaiser doesn't require GRE, but USC does. Both programs require only one year of ICU experience. My goal is to get into CRNA program by 2010 or the latest by 2011. I have all the pre-requisites for USC except for physics and one year ICU experience. For Kaiser, I have to do my BSN, which probably takes at least one to two years.

The only downside for USC is the tuition costs 3x more than Kaiser's.

Any suggestions/opinions would be appreciated.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in CVICU, CCRN, now SRNA.
Both programs require only one year of ICU experience. My goal is to get into CRNA program by 2010 or the latest by 2011.

This is a huge assumption for someone still in their ADN. Just because only 1 year is required, is far from saying you will be accepted. Look at the number of CRNA programs on the west coast and think of who you're up against. I'm not saying you shouldn't apply--you should--but be realistic in your expectations and be well-prepared. Even better, be over-prepared.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Hi Summitk2,

Thanks for responding. I don't understand what is so not realistic about it...I give myself additional two to three years in ICU experience in order to apply to the CRNA program. Is that not realistic? I'm not saying I'm super smart, but I've talked to people who have done it sooner...I just don't understand why you have the obligation to tell me that I'm not being realistic.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Does anyone know how much the tuition for USC is?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

CoCo, I think it's close to $60,000...Kaiser is only $20,000.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

yogi,

I am currently in the Kaiser program graduating class of '10. I think your goals are definitely realistic and it sounds like you are setting yourself up nicely. A friend of mine in the program and I had one year of very intense ICU experience and we were still accepted and doing just as well as people with 5+ years experience. They don't mind taking people 1-3 years out of school b/c they feel the transition back to school may be easier. They emphasize the quality of your experience, not necessarily the quantity.

In your decision making, remember there are plenty of 1 year RN-BSN programs out there. I havn't spoke with any USC students, but I absolutely love the Kaiser program and the faculty. Try to shadow a class at both programs to feel it out. If you ever need any advice or have any questions, feel free to PM me.

Good luck and don't let negative people slow you down...big goals and working hard is what gets you into the program in the first place

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion