How can you choose the best nursing program for you?

Nursing is one of the most in-demand fields in today’s job market. With current job prospects for nurses at all stages of their careers better than many other professions, there is also an unprecedented student demand for undergraduate and graduate nursing programs.

While many nursing degree programs are turning away applicants due to both overwhelming demand and a nursing faculty shortage, it still pays for potential nursing students to be choosy about where to obtain their nursing education. Here are some helpful tips for any prospective nursing student to use when evaluating any potential nursing program.

“Choosing a nursing program requires an individualized approach,” says Janeen Dahn, RN, MSN, FNP-C, and Assistant Dean of University of Phoenix’s College of Nursing. “The best way to pick a program is to consider your needs and choose a program that works for you.”

Dahn advises students to evaluate several criteria when determining whether a potential nursing program is a good fit for them, including that program’s overall instructional quality. “Always check with the state Board of Nursing to see if the program has any corrective actions pending,” she says. “NCLEX pass rates for graduates are one criterion to look out for, but also consider things like whether the program has benchmarks in place for measuring student progress during the program. Also, be wary of any nursing programs that do not have sufficient clinical hours. And be sure to talk to graduates of the program.”

Sharon M. Rayman, MS, RN, is Adjunct Faculty and Student Services coordinator at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center in Phoenix, Ariz., part of Catholic Health West, a health system with facilities throughout California, Arizona and Nevada. Rayman serves as a career development advisor for employees at this major metropolitan medical center, and her advisor role includes helping employees select nursing degree programs. Rayman advises prospective nursing students to use a multi-step approach. “First, prospective nursing students should explore the various avenues by which one can become a nurse,” she says.

According to Rayman, when it comes to narrowing the field of potential nursing-school candidates, students should ask several questions, including:

Is the academic institution regionally accredited?

• Is the nursing program accredited by a nursing accrediting body?
• What is the NCLEX pass rate for the nursing program?
• What is the length of the program of study?
• What are the costs? (e.g., tuition/fees, as well as associated costs like textbooks and lab fees)
• What is the length of the program, as well as the delivery format for instruction (on-campus, online, or a combination?)
• Is there a waiting period for admission?
• What are the prerequisites for admission?
• What student support systems are available to facilitate learning potential and success?

As a career counselor in a large metropolitan hospital, Rayman sees and evaluates a wide range of nursing program offerings from multiple institutions. She thinks programs at University of Phoenix stand out for several reasons. “The LPN-to-BSN program, the experienced 24/7 tech support for online faculty and students, the responsiveness of the Workforce Solutions advisors, and the community service career development workshops” are all highlights of University of Phoenix nursing programs, according to Rayman.

In addition, Rayman advises nursing students—especially those already working in the nursing field and seeking advanced degrees—to plan their careers and educational paths carefully. “Have a goal in mind and develop a plan which can provide you with confidence and motivation needed to deal with life’s challenges,” she says. “Surround yourself with allies—supervisors, co-workers, friends, family and teachers. Follow your heart, and never be afraid to dream.”

Janeen Dahn encourages nursing students and working learners to seek as many avenues as possible for their education. “Learning is not limited to the classroom,” says Dahn. “Students should take advantage of every learning opportunity—at work, at home, at school. Ask questions, ask why. Look for evidence-based practice to determine why you do what you do in nursing.”

Whatever nursing program students choose, there is no question they are embarking on an exciting and fulfilling career. “The world will always need nurses,” says Dahn. “To be a nurse is to be a person who has an opportunity to touch more people’s lives than any other profession. Where you go with your degree is up to you. There are no limits.”