USM Accelerated Program

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Hi there, I just wanted those interested to know that I graduated from the accelerated program and would be happy to answer any questions anyone has regarding it.

Hi,

Actually I was interested in USM accelerated program? How is it? Was it hard to get into? Did you do a lot of clinical work and was it a good learning experience? Would you recommend going to USM? If you don't mind, how much did it cost?

Thanks so much! Congrats on finishing!

Hi there, yes the accelerated program is hard to get into. They only accept about 32 candidates a year and over 200 apply. If you did well in college the first time around, have strong references as well as a good essay, I'd say your chances are pretty good. We got a decent amount of clinical experience, it is difficult though because you are basically working a full-time job while in school, and they definatley recommend not working at all outside of clinicals and classes. You have to have a pretty strong work ethic to get through since it's sooo intensive. Feel free to email me with any other questions...

It cost about $25,000 because I took out student loans to help get by financially while in school on top of tuition costs.

Hi, Heidi: Did you do the accelerated BSN or master's program? I have enrolled at USM to finish up nursing pre-requisites; as I already have a prior degree, my adviser is urging me to apply to the master's program. My first degree was not science-related. How difficult would the master's program be for someone with minimal science prequisites? (Stats, A 'n P; took bio and chem more than 20 years ago.) And what job opportunities await graduates of the nursing program in Maine? Any ballpark figures you could give on starting salaries would be appreciated. I'm trying to figure out if I can afford to stay out of the workforce for three years. Thanks.

I have a question reguarding the program, this is my second year applying and I was wondering when did you hear back from them?? I hate the waiting game and am trying to make a plan B just in case I don't get in again. I'm assuming I'll find out anytime now??!

Hi Wishful Thinking--

I, too, am waiting to hear back from them. I turned in my application for the Accelerated BSN for the 10/1 deadline.

You mentioned that this is your second time applying. I'm curious-- do you remember when you heard a decision last year? I think I saw somewhere on their website that they try to send out notices before the end of the year. I'm just curious if we might hear soon or if it won't be until late-December...

Good luck!

I am trying to remember and I want to say I heard sometime around the end of Nov. or the beginning of Dec. but I'm not sure if that's just because I didn't get in last year. It would probably make sense that we would find out closer to the end of the year. But I hate waiting, but good luck too!

I'm going to visit my folks for 10 days over Christmas/New Year's and I worry that the letter will come while I'm gone. It would be nice to know one way or the other before I leave for the holidays.

In the mean time, I'll just work on my patience... and my micro homework.

Oh, good ole Micro. I'm going to be so glad when that class is over and done!!!

What kind of credentials did you have before applying? I graduated 2007 from BC with a 3.5. Do you know what the pool of applicants look like?

I know a lot of people who are going into nursing have different backgrounds, different degrees. I have a background in Speech therapy, but I know a lot of people who have business degrees, art, education, etc. I think as long as your grades are good and get all the necessary pre-req. out of the way you have a good chance.

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