Once you've decided to pursue a career in nursing, the next logical step is to figure out which school will be the best fit for you. However, this task can often feel a little daunting. You will need to start researching schools, preparing for entrance exams, and assembling any required materials. This guide aims to help you navigate this process so you can feel confident and well-prepared as you begin your nursing journey.
Choosing the Right Programme and Getting Accepted
The most important aspect of kicking off your nursing career is first choosing your ideal nursing programme and then ensuring you meet the prerequisites and are ready for the application process. One thing to consider when determining your preferred programme is to decide whether you would like to be an on-campus student or, alternatively, complete your studies in a virtual setting. Thankfully, the opportunities offered today are vast, and you'll find many institutions that facilitate part-time, full-time, and in-person courses - you can even find nursing certifications online. The choice of school and specialisation not only determines the path set out for your future but can even influence the level of success you can achieve in your career.
Choice of Programme
The main choices for nursing programmes are the ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) and the BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) programmes. Associate degrees are typically shorter and last about two years as they are less intensive than the BSN but still give you the qualifications to practice as a registered nurse. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing is much more comprehensive, taking about four years to complete, but it opens the door to more opportunities in the field.
The Application Process
Once you've decided on a programme, it's time to apply to schools. Be sure to meet all deadlines and fulfilment requirements, such as GPA information, test scores, personal essays, and any references/recommendations. The application process can be competitive, so casting a broad net increases your chances of acceptance. Ensure you've found the school that best fits your needs and are as prepared as possible to pass entry requirements.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Additionally, it's worth exploring scholarship opportunities and financial aid options that can help alleviate some of the financial burden. Postsecondary study can be expensive, so it's essential to maximise your resources and minimise your debt. Start by researching any initiatives and programmes you may be eligible for that can help you in your studies.
Laying a Strong Academic Foundation Before Applying
You should have a solid academic foundation to get the best opportunities and options, so don't ignore this step. It will potentially get you accepted into the best schools and make your foray into higher education that much easier. Having this foundation is simple but does take some time and effort.
Take Prerequisite Courses Seriously
The classes that need completion before applying to nursing school, such as anatomy, physiology, and biology, provide knowledge that will serve as building blocks for your nursing courses. These will help you memorise crucial foundational information as well as help you develop good study habits for the future.
Maintaining a Strong GPA is Essential
Most nursing schools have GPA requirements, and you will need to aim for something around a 3.0 or higher to be accepted into most programmes, but if you strive for the best grades possible when you can, you haven't got too much to worry about. That said, there might be some other pathway options available if your GPA does not meet the intake requirements, so don't fret.
Preparing Financially and Logistically for Nursing School
Like any course of study, preparing logistically for nursing school is crucial for success. Remember to consider all requirements involved, such as tuition costs and housing, while applying for the course. Then, from here, you can get a better sense of the viability of your choice in nursing school.
Tuition and Costs
Attending nursing school is an investment in your future and will undoubtedly come with expenses. You should anticipate costs ranging from $40,000 to $80,000 for a 4-year public BSN programme, and for private programmes, anywhere from $60,000 to $120,000 is the average. If you can access loan schemes, you will incur student debt, but this may be your only option without financial aid. Additionally, you'll need to budget for additional items, such as lab equipment, scrubs, textbooks, and other items, so be sure to plan ahead and leave some wiggle room.
Time Management
Nursing school demands exceptional time management skills due to the many commitments of the programme. These include classes, study sessions, clinical rotations, and balancing work and other personal obligations. To stay on top of everything effectively, you should schedule all your sessions and outline tasks and deadlines. If you can, also plan and prepare your meals in advance so time isn't wasted. You may also need to temporarily sacrifice or reduce other activities to successfully complete your studies.
Housing
If you are relocating for your course, you should look for on-campus housing, off-campus apartments, or shared accommodation nearby. It can be a significant drawback if the only affordable accommodation is a long way from the campus or any clinical facilities you may be required to attend. Hence, it's important to begin this process early. If possible, visiting the location in person is recommended to find a place that's both affordable and safe to live.
In Conclusion
These tips have given you insights into how you can prepare for success in nursing school. The road ahead may be demanding, but if you're focused and disciplined, you'll be sure to graduate successfully! Just ensure you've done the necessary groundwork, and before you know it, you'll be walking across that stage with your diploma, ready to make a difference in the world.
This article is part of the HealthManagement.org Point-of-View Programme.
