Several people have "warned" me about an extreme lack of clinical experience and heavy focus on theory in Vanderbilts' MSN program. (FNP and ACNP) I have actually had one guy tell me to "run" to another program. In fact, noone has spoken highly of the hands-on skill set that Vandy provides.
Can anyone speak to this? (Either from the Bridge or Direct Enty viewpoint) Vanderbilt is quite pricey and I had assumed that one would graduate from such a program "well prepared" to begin a career as an advanced practice nurse.
Please do not flame as I am asking an honest question without prejudice.
The Vandy reputation was the same way when I worked there several years ago. Interestingly, I was in a BSN program in Nashville. The ADN grads seemed to have more clinical experience than the BSN grads. It affects your confidence level. We were told by faculty, "You'll get your skills in the first year..." and this was true. But what a way to learn, on a surgical unit at Vandy! Whew, I learned my butt off there!
If you choose Vandy, try to work as a care partner at the hospital. It can only help you with your skills.
I work at vandy now and most of my colleagues are going thru one of the MSN programs at vandy. I've heard much of the same dialogue. It sounds like vandy is an okay program if a) you want vandy behind your name b) if you have significant experience in your future field. I probably will not go to vandy even though they are well-known. But that's just me.
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My hometown is in Arkansas.