Why Aren't There More Part Time Nursing Programs?

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Specializes in Medical-Surgical, Pediatrics.

I just wanted to vent but I truly do not understand why many of the nursing programs do not offer part time programs. For people like me that has to work so myfamily can stay financially stable, we are left with few choices. I really want to be a nurse but I have to admit it is hard trying to find a program that fits my family life.

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I understand.. I'm having a hard time trying to balance full time work and family life. I know it can be down and I just have to put 100% into learning how to balance school, work and my personal life. I wish you much success on your journey.

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

My own school felt that the program could not successfully be delivered on a part time basis as several of the clinical rotations requried varied hours (some days early, some days late, possibly weekends) which would no be conducive to a part time schedule. In addition there is limited financial aid for part time programs. Finally, despite the hype in the media, there is not a shortage of new nurses in the United States so many programs have reduced the number of seats offered as well as part time or weekend programs since the job placement of newly graduated nurses have been dismal the past few years.

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Specializes in Medical-Surgical, Pediatrics.

Wow, I didn't know about the financial aid being limited for part time programs. I understand about the clinical rotations because I remember going an open house for one school and they stated that there is competition among the programs for clinical sites. I am just praying that I can get into a situation that will allow me to take off full time.

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Specializes in Forensic Psych.

I do think financial aid has something to do with it. Also, the cost of running two RN programs isn't always feasible, if you can even find enough quality educational staff and clinical time.

In my case (and many others, I believe) my full-time ADN program technically IS part-time. When you take pre-reqs beforehand, it drastically reduces the credit load from what it stated in the degree plan. In my case, I only have about 40 credits to take in 2 years - that's only 10 credits per semester. Is it still full time work? Heeeeck yes!

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Yes indeed there are few part time programs and an alternative could be an online program but it depends on the school which you want to follow. The part time programs last longer too and maybe that's why no so much schools have this option ,and nowdays many students want to get their RN degree in 18 months or less....

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I think the demand for nurses just doesn't call for more program options. The mentality these days seems to be make it work or do something else. It's probably one way of decreasing the influx of RN grads, which makes sense.

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