How to Choose a Nursing School

There are many factors that you need to consider when choosing a nursing school. These factors will be prioritized differently depending on your current career goals, lifestyle, and financial status. Here are few things to consider:

Location – What nursing programs are available in your area? How far are you willing to travel to attend classes? Are you willing to consider relocating to a different area in order to attend school?

Specialties - What specific nursing specialty have you chosen? Is it available in your area?

Accreditation – Look for schools that have been accredited by the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission (NLNAC) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing and Education. Accredited schools have met the necessary standards set by these organizations for nursing education. Although accreditation by either organization is good, dual accreditation is ideal.

Tuition, Financial Aid – Will you be able to afford tuition? If not, are you able to apply for financial aid? Keep in mind financial aid availability can vary greatly between large and smaller institutions.

Class Schedules – Does the school you have chosen have classes scheduled that are convenient for you?

Tests required for admission – What pre-admission tests or exams are necessary for attending the school that you are interested in?

Clinical Rotation – Necessary while completing coursework. Does the school provide enough clinical rotation time? Are the clinical placements varied enough? Do they provide hands-on experience? This information is best to get from current students.

NCLEX exam pass-rates – The percentage of students passing this exam is a good barometer of well the school is preparing its students. Ask your prospective school for this data from the last 5-10 years.

Top Online Nursing Programs

	Indiana State University - Bachelor's Degree. Offering upper level nursing degrees, Indiana State University educates students with interactive nursing programs. Indiana State challenges students with a dynamic learning curriculum in a variety of nursing degrees.
	Kaplan University - Certification, Associate's, & Bachelor's Degree. Kaplan University has a well respected nursing program for students looking to obtain their degree online. Kaplan is an accredited university with a history of placing students in high-growth nursing careers.
	Liberty University - Certification, Associate's, & Bachelor's Degree. As the largest evangelical university, Liberty UniversityÕs Distance Learning Program has prepared numerous students for nursing careers. Flexible and affordable online nursing classes are available.
	South University - Certification, & Bachelor's Degree. South University is one of the most respected names in online colleges and provides a variety of nursing degree plans. South University makes it possible to earn your entire nursing degree online.
	Grand Canyon University - Certification, Associate's, & Bachelor's Degree. Challenging students to be the best student they can be, Grand Canyon University is an education Christian community. A variety of nursing programs are available.
	University of Phoenix - Certification, & Associate's Degree. University of Phoenix is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and offers nursing degrees at affordable prices. Phoenix allows students to practice what they learn with hands on teaching methods.

Search for a nursing degree now