Hi there -
This question is for any nurses, doctors, or nursing administrators who live in or around DuPage County. I'm giving thought to enrolling in a nursing program, with the end goal of becoming a RN (but possibly a LPN first). I do have an undergraduate degree, but would need to take the prerequisite science and anatomy courses first.
I’ve been poking around a bit, and there seem to be a LOT of programs out there. Can anybody recommend a program/school that’s highly rated? Are there any that seem to be more valued by administrators who do the hiring? Similarly, are there any programs that are considered “second rate” that I should avoid?
I’d love to get a few opinions from people already working in the industry.
Thank you!
As a nurse practitoner and a nurse for 25 years, get your RN. An LPN would take too much time and you already have your undergraduate degree. College of Dupage has a good program.
Hi
I am a nurse (BSN),and went to Elmhurst College.I really liked the program and the school.Classes were smaller,and the teachers were great! I also worked as a cna through college, which I highly reccomend.It is also good to get your foot in the door of a hospital.It is much easier then to get a job as a nurse when you graduate.I've seen many nurses aides get hired as they graduated.Something to consider also..most magnet hospitals only hire BSN Rn's.Good luck to you which ever path you choose!
You might want to contact local hospitals' Human Resources departments and ask them if you can speak with a nurse recruiter. They should have a good idea of what to look for.
My neighbors are both nurses. They coach that its better to do the CNA program first and then you can work anyplace. COD has a well respected CNA program that my neighbors had their kids attend. As a CNA you can work while going to school for the RN and it will help you decide if you like this career field. My neighbors have a daughter attending Chamberlain College but its a long drive from Wheaton area (she has apartment and lives near her school and also works while doing her RN program).
You can take classes at COD (ie science and anatomy) while working. I have a daughter just finishing her nursing degree in Peoria who came home for the summer and took anatomy with the cadaver at COD. It was a good, very vigorous class and she was pleased with how it was presented at COD. Part of the nursing program includes clinical experience at local nursing homes and hospitals where you have contact with the work environment and may have the opportunity to learn about employment at local places. You will want to network with people who are working as nurses. Sorry but I am not a nurse.
