4 answers
Vivian
Student
Newton Falls, Ohio
5
Questions
Asked
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How do I pick the right college for nursing?
Hello! I'm a 10th grader right now and it's now the time for most high-school students to start picking colleges that they like. I have a career I want to do, but I don't know what colleges give the best programs for this. I would like to become a nursing student, It's been my dream for a couple years now. So I just need recommendations on what colleges give the best nursing program. I'm from the Northern Eastern Ohio area,but I was planning to move the middle of New York after I graduate in 2029, but my options are always open.
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4 answers
Diana Liang
Technical Writer
5
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Diana’s Answer
Hi Vivian, as Guy suggested, look into schools with high NCLEX passing rates. Also, see if these colleges have ties with major hospitals, which could boost your chances of getting hired where you do your clinical rotations. If you already have a nursing specialty or a specific hospital or city in mind, check if those hospitals are connected to any nursing colleges. I hope this helps you on your journey!
Mitchell Baskin
Student Engagement Specialist
4
Answers
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Updated
Mitchell’s Answer
Hello, look for a college or university with regional accreditation and nursing programs accredited by the CCNE. These programs usually provide the knowledge you need for a great career in nursing.
Kayden Boone
Nursing Student, CNA
2
Answers
Morgantown, West Virginia
Updated
Kayden’s Answer
Hi Vivian!
I am currently a nursing student at West Virginia University. I was super conflicted during the college application process as well. The main things I looked at were the NCLEX passing rate, the tuition, how far away from home I was, and if my current dual enrollment classes would transfer. I also looked into how clinicals work because some colleges have to travel a lot further for a bigger hospital. At WVU we have a large hospital, children’s section, and separate mental health hospitals which cover all of our rotations. This is extremely helpful because I don’t have to worry about traveling hours or waking up even earlier due to travel time. I think this is a huge factor because it gives me more time for studying and other things like the gym, rather than spending hours traveling. I would also recommend touring different colleges you are interested in so that you can see the layout of their hospital and learn about how their classes and clinicals work.
I am currently a nursing student at West Virginia University. I was super conflicted during the college application process as well. The main things I looked at were the NCLEX passing rate, the tuition, how far away from home I was, and if my current dual enrollment classes would transfer. I also looked into how clinicals work because some colleges have to travel a lot further for a bigger hospital. At WVU we have a large hospital, children’s section, and separate mental health hospitals which cover all of our rotations. This is extremely helpful because I don’t have to worry about traveling hours or waking up even earlier due to travel time. I think this is a huge factor because it gives me more time for studying and other things like the gym, rather than spending hours traveling. I would also recommend touring different colleges you are interested in so that you can see the layout of their hospital and learn about how their classes and clinicals work.
Guy Harding
Certified Nursing Assistant
3
Answers
Bridgeville, Delaware
Updated
Guy’s Answer
Hey Vivian, first off congratulations! Nursing is an amazing profession. I have worked as a CNA since 2016, and I'm currently enrolled in a Nursing Program in Delaware for my RN, ADN. So while I can't give advice as a professional on this one, I absolutely can as a fellow student.
The big thing I looked at was NCLEX pass rates. If you are unfamiliar with the NCLEX, it is the board examination that determines if you have the required knowledge to competently practice as a nurse. The higher the NCLEX pass rate of the program, the better you know they were prepared by their program to sit for that exam. Accreditation is also extremely important as that is another factor that determines whether or not you can sit for the NCLEX, as well as financial aid.
Speaking of financial aid. Depending on the support system you have, it would be good to ensure the college is within feasible limits for you financially. Living on campus or close enough to commute is a must, you will be surprised how quickly you get slammed with dense course material to study, in addition to that you'll have to clock lab hours to practice your skills before your checkoffs.
Considering your Nursing route is also important! Some colleges don't have BSN or MSN programs.
Do you want to be an LPN?
RN, ADN?
RN, BSN?
RN, MSN?
While these aren't things you necessarily have to worry about right now, it is important to keep them in the back of your mind, so you know if the college you choose offers a route to your goal. If they only offer one, and you want another, there's nothing wrong with getting what they offer and pursuing higher education at another college as well.
You got this!! Hope this helps :)
Look for colleges with high NCLEX Pass Rates (You can ask the school directly)
Decide what your educational plan looks like. ADN, BSN, MSN, what is your end goal?
Remember to enjoy the journey, don't let college be hard. It's a time to expand your horizons. Work hard, but have fun. Best of luck :)
The big thing I looked at was NCLEX pass rates. If you are unfamiliar with the NCLEX, it is the board examination that determines if you have the required knowledge to competently practice as a nurse. The higher the NCLEX pass rate of the program, the better you know they were prepared by their program to sit for that exam. Accreditation is also extremely important as that is another factor that determines whether or not you can sit for the NCLEX, as well as financial aid.
Speaking of financial aid. Depending on the support system you have, it would be good to ensure the college is within feasible limits for you financially. Living on campus or close enough to commute is a must, you will be surprised how quickly you get slammed with dense course material to study, in addition to that you'll have to clock lab hours to practice your skills before your checkoffs.
Considering your Nursing route is also important! Some colleges don't have BSN or MSN programs.
Do you want to be an LPN?
RN, ADN?
RN, BSN?
RN, MSN?
While these aren't things you necessarily have to worry about right now, it is important to keep them in the back of your mind, so you know if the college you choose offers a route to your goal. If they only offer one, and you want another, there's nothing wrong with getting what they offer and pursuing higher education at another college as well.
You got this!! Hope this helps :)
Guy recommends the following next steps:
I would like my RN,BSN because I am trying to see what courses to take to become a peds nurse.
Vivian