A Guide To Selecting Nursing Schools For Prospective Students

By Lena Stephenson


A career as a nurse not only provides one with the satisfaction of being able to help others get well, but it also provides a wide range of opportunities and job security in the workforce. Choosing the school where one will train to become a nurse is the initial step in this process. Prospective students in Perth Amboy, NJ who want to compare nursing schools in order to pick the best one should consider these guidelines.

Students can choose to study at the certificate or diploma level in either a practical nursing or associate's degree program, or they can pursue a bachelor's of science degree (BSN) which will allow them to practice as a registered nurse upon completion of the national exam. This latter program of study is generally recommended over the others as it provides more opportunities for employment.

A student can become a licensed vocational or practical nurse after about one year of schooling. Successful graduates must take a licensing exam, and then they may seek employment in hospitals and clinics. An associate's degree program (ADN)takes 2-3 years to complete and involves additional classroom time and the study of more specialized areas.

The bachelor's of science program consists of 4 full years of study which provide students with strong leadership, critical thinking, and communication skills and an in-depth knowledge of medical technology, disease, and treatment. Besides entering the workforce as a registered nurse, graduates of this program are also eligible to study for a graduate degree such as an MSN or doctorate.

In addition to offering training at the level one is interested in, the chosen school should also provide a stream of study which allows learners to specialize in a particular area of nursing if desired. There are some schools which will offer the opportunity for specialization, but many of them simply provide an all-encompassing curriculum which gives equal attention to all areas. In some cases, a student may also be interested to know where the school's clinical rotations will take place.

The location of the campus and distance from one's home is another point to consider, especially for those who need to rely on public transportation. Choosing a school which has been accredited by one or both of the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education is also advisable since these organizations do regular reviews of various aspects of the school's operation to ensure high standards.

The financial aid offered by the school or made available through it is another aspect that will be of importance to those who plan on applying for assistance in the form of loans, grants, or bursaries. It can also be helpful to find out if the school requires nursing program applicants to write a pre-admission test to assess their suitability for a career in healthcare, and if so, how one can best prepare for it.

It can also be helpful to do some research and look up the NCLEX (national licensing exam)pass rates of graduates from the school one is considering since this can say a lot about the quality of its instruction. Checking pass rates from the past five to ten years is advisable. Performance on this exam is essential, as one most successfully pass it in order to become licensed to practice nursing in the state.




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