Vanderbilt University School of Nursing or University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)

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I am seeking some insight from anyone who has attended or is attending either Vandy or UABs AGAC-DNP programs. I have been accepted into both programs and am pretty torn on which to go with, so any insight into either school would be super helpful, as well as any other relevant insight into what went into your decision making when choosing your respective program. 

A quick summary: Vanderbilt is ranked #2 for this specialty, has in person learning opportunities, areas of subspecialty (which interests me greatly as I intend to work in a pretty specialize area upon graduation and want to be as prepared as possible), is great about finding clinical placements and job opportunities post grad, but it is also 2x the cost of UAB. UAB is ranked #11 for this specialty, is primarily a distanced format, would allow more room for me to work while in the program, is much more affordable, and from people I have spoken to has been a supportive and good school for them while in attendance. 

All of this being said, I am torn on which to choose. Rationally, my brain says pick the afforadable option, but I can't get over the fact that I may be giving up an incredible learning experience and opportunity by passing up Vanderbilt. I am curious is anyone here has attended either school and could give me some feedback to help me make a decision! If you haven't attended either school but had a similar decision making process when choosing your school I would love to hear your thought process behind your choice.

Thanks in advance!

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Hi! I can't offer insight into Vandy's program however I am a current UAB DNP student. I am loving the program so far! Distance learning with recorded lectures and zoom meetings with instructors available weekly. They also offer subspecialty certificates depending on what you're looking for. 

 

Like I mentioned, I do not know anything about Vandy's program but I recommend UAB. It's a challenging but rewarding program. With on campus intensives for core NP classes and subspecialty classes. Hope this helps 🙂

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