Would you recommend EC to new students?

Editorial Team / Moderator · Aug 6, 2017

I would do it again, yes. I was (am) a paramedic, we have fewer bridge options, if any.

I recommend it for students with no other traditional alternatives as long as they are motivated, aware of the potential issues with licensure in some states, and aware of the CPNE wait time.

NotMyProblem MSN, ASN, BSN, MSN, LPN, RN · Aug 6, 2017

It's been seven years since my graduation from EC, and I can't count the number of times I've recommended this college to others.

Given the current CPNE wait time, I'm saddened to say my recommendations will come as a last-resort suggestion since the completion timeline will be longer than a brick-n-mortar, post-prerequisite bridge program.

the_murse_factor · Aug 7, 2017

I am actually admitted into EC but have yet to officially enroll. Before I officially enrolled and paid the enrollment fee, I did a serious pro's and con's analysis and after a lot of thinking I decided that I would use EC as my last resort option. I'm currently applying to a couple brick and mortar LPN bridge programs here in my city. The two programs are a year long from start to finish.

The main reason I decided against EC at this time was the pass/fail rates of the CPNE and the current minimum 12 month wait time to test.

Nalon1 RN/EMT-P, BSN, RN · Aug 7, 2017

Depends on the person.

I have had 2 paramedics that I have told not to do it, because I could tell they did not have the drive to do it on their own. They needed deadlines and a set program. They went to B&M schools and passed.

I had one paramedic I worked with that I cautioned against it because I knew of the struggles he had just getting his paramedic (he was not a good test taker). He went to Excelsior, failed a few courses (2 of the lifespan courses, one of the FCCA classes), but passed his CPNE the first try (after an 11 month wait). He now is still trying to pass his NCLEX (3rd try next week).

I have 2 others that I encouraged to do it, one did and passed, the other decided on a B&M school (is finishing up in December).

If I don't know them well, I tell them that there are disadvantages of it, as well as advantages. I do not outright say yes or no.

Overall, I would say it is not an option for most. Some think it is an "easy" way to get their RN, some realize before they enroll, others do not.

It took me almost 8 years from the time I took my first pre-req course till I passed the CPNE (end of 2005 to mid 2013). In that time I had 2 job changes, the birth of a child, father diagnosed and passed from cancer, failed a few tests, and all other types of life events.

It was the right choice for me, but it is not for everyone.

AbigailJo · Aug 30, 2017

It just depends on their situation. I am grateful for Excelsior. It took me 2 years to do the prereqs and the nursing courses including the FCCA. I am currently on the CPNE wait list. I would have rather done a more traditional route, but the reality is I couldn't. Working full time, this was the best option for me. I also have student loans from my LPN and wanted a route I could pay cash for. This was far and away the best financial option. It's not perfect, but there are ups and downs to every school. It just depends on what you need to fit your own lifestyle. If you're able to take time off work and pay for a traditional school, that might be a better option.