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.
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