Anyone doing Excelsior College's LPN-RN program?

Sandra in Newport News, Virginia said: Hello;

Could you please E-Mail me the Name of some Colleges that have an LPN to RN Program Online.

Thank You,

Sandra

Sandra in Newport News, Virginia

There are a lot of LPN-RN programs in every state, mostly in community or technical colleges but the those programs are traditional programs. They are not online programs, the only part you can do online are the prereq's, you will have to do the clinical rotations along with everyone else. Also(just like the traditional program) You will have to apply, be put on a waiting list, then be accepted to the RN program. That is how traditional programs work as we all know. That is why we are doing Excelsior, because it's a none traditional program, no waiting list, at your own pace. Traditional programs are good, but some of us don't have time to be waiting on a list to get in when we could be finished at another school. The only Online Nursing program that I know of that is LPN-BSN is at Indiana State University, it requires you to do clinicals but you can actually do the clinical at a site in your state or close by. If you go on their website they have the clinical sites listed. Also, they will accept up to 90 semester hours of transfer credit, you only have to do one year with them. They accept credit from Excelsior as well. So, if you want to do the traditional program go for it, the non-traditional route is not for everybody. But if you finished a good LPN program, you can do the Excelsior program. And Sandra, we are here to help each other. So Good Luck in your choice!

Lucius in Atlanta, GA

Lucius in Atlanta, Georgia said: Sandra in Newport News, Virginia

There are a lot of LPN-RN programs in every state, mostly in community or technical colleges but the those programs are traditional programs. They are not online programs, the only part you can do online are the prereq's, you will have to do the clinical rotations along with everyone else. Also(just like the traditional program) You will have to apply, be put on a waiting list, then be accepted to the RN program. That is how traditional programs work as we all know. That is why we are doing Excelsior, because it's a none traditional program, no waiting list, at your own pace. Traditional programs are good, but some of us don't have time to be waiting on a list to get in when we could be finished at another school. The only Online Nursing program that I know of that is LPN-BSN is at Indiana State University, it requires you to do clinicals but you can actually do the clinical at a site in your state or close by. If you go on their website they have the clinical sites listed. Also, they will accept up to 90 semester hours of transfer credit, you only have to do one year with them. They accept credit from Excelsior as well. So, if you want to do the traditional program go for it, the non-traditional route is not for everybody. But if you finished a good LPN program, you can do the Excelsior program. And Sandra, we are here to help each other. So Good Luck in your choice!

Lucius in Atlanta, GA

Actually the community college online LPN-RN programs are becoming increasingly more sophisticated as well as becoming more popular. As long as you finish pre-requistes they are usually no more than 11 months in duration and include nursing theroy courses that you take all on-line and flexible clinical rotations at different locations within a state. And they are indeed called on-line LPN-RN programs. I can think of several in the state I live in alone.

From a friend who took the CPNE
"My work is not done. There are no quality controls in the CPNE. No BSN’s with 10 years acute care experience have taken the CPNE incognito, to ferret out the bugs in the program. The CPNE is very well protected legally; remember all the papers that you sign?

In my group of six, there were three repeating the CPNE, three taking the test for the first time, and only 3 passed, two failed and one had a hissy fit and stopped the test. The test along with airfare, hotel, food and miscellaneous expenses is approximately $3,200.00 - $3,500.00 each time. You can take the test a total of 3 times at the cost of $9,600 to $10,500.00. Then Excelsior, richer to be sure, cuts you loose, passed or failed.

Excelsior College requires of its students a 70% or greater score of success to pass and be awarded credits on all tests, yet Excelsior College has failed to meet this standard in the CPNE. There was a 50% pass rate on my group alone and it is reported on their own site that they achieve a 65% pass rate for a first time testing, 65% pass rate for those testing the second time and a 55% pass rate for those testing for the third time. I believe this 65% number to be greatly inflated" Just let me say it,
“EXCELSIOR COLLEGE, YOU HAVE FAILED AS A TESTING PROGRAM”.

Lucius in Atlanta, Georgia said: Sean3321 in Witchita, KS and Monique7 in Zephyrhills, Fl

I really believe that neither of you went to Excelsior. Probably just a couple of Bitter RN's that hate the Excelsior College program and are trying to discourage as many people as possible from going. I think you two are in on this together, for Monique who has been putting negative comments on here for the last month, I kinda felt sorry for you but now I realize that you are just stupid. Sean you say the CPNE is unfair, but you stated that you "NEVER TOOK THE CPNE?", that doesn't make sense to me. How can you call the CPNE unfair if you never did it? Sounds suspicious to me, as if you paid all your money to take the exams but HEARD the CPNE was UNFAIR and that made you not want to take it? So, let me guess you are going to start over, get put on a waiting list, maybe get accepted, and finish up in 3 to 4 years from now? That sounds really intelligent, LOL!!! Both of you are a couple of Idiots!!! I hope anyone who has been reading this Forum will not take these two people serious, and continue on with your educational goals. These are the type of people that don't have anything better to do than to discourage.

As far as I know this is a place where people can come to express themselves without hurting each other. I said I already went to the CPNE twice that I have to go back for the last time. I am about to lose $20,000 just like that. But like I always say, I still have my books if anyone is interrested. Everyone is free to try the program if they want to lose their time energy and money. Who am I to stop people from making decisions in their lives? I never had any problem taking the exams, I passed them all. You don't have to believe me if you don't want to. But I promised to come back with more information after I go to the CPNE next time.

sean3321 in Wichita, Kansas said: From a friend who took the CPNE
"My work is not done. There are no quality controls in the CPNE. No BSN’s with 10 years acute care experience have taken the CPNE incognito, to ferret out the bugs in the program. The CPNE is very well protected legally; remember all the papers that you sign?

In my group of six, there were three repeating the CPNE, three taking the test for the first time, and only 3 passed, two failed and one had a hissy fit and stopped the test. The test along with airfare, hotel, food and miscellaneous expenses is approximately $3,200.00 - $3,500.00 each time. You can take the test a total of 3 times at the cost of $9,600 to $10,500.00. Then Excelsior, richer to be sure, cuts you loose, passed or failed.

Excelsior College requires of its students a 70% or greater score of success to pass and be awarded credits on all tests, yet Excelsior College has failed to meet this standard in the CPNE. There was a 50% pass rate on my group alone and it is reported on their own site that they achieve a 65% pass rate for a first time testing, 65% pass rate for those testing the second time and a 55% pass rate for those testing for the third time. I believe this 65% number to be greatly inflated" Just let me say it,
“EXCELSIOR COLLEGE, YOU HAVE FAILED AS A TESTING PROGRAM”.

Lucius in Atlanta, Georgia said: Sean I am not insulting you because you have a different opinion than myself, you and Monique are making it a mission to make as many negative remarks as possible on this site. ONE negative remark is enough to get your point across anything more than that is suspicious. Let me give you an example: I personally think paying $1,900 CPNE is outrageous! And I honestly think it is but I would rather pay for one weekend than to have to do clinical rotations for 2 years. But Sean, I have to wonder, you actually went on the internet to search for a site that had Excelsior students so you could tell them how bad the program is? Sounds like some BS to me! Sean we are here to complete what we have started no matter how hard it may seem or what people might say to throw us off! Just because someone said “the CPNE isn’t fair” I am not going to get scared and throw in the towel (as you did) after I put in my time and hard earned money. I know the “ends will justify the means” in this situation. Sean I think that your statement describes you perfectly “Ambiguity is something we all have to accept in life. And please, if you cannot read other people's opinions without them being threatening then you should not be in nursing period.” I guess this is the reason you did not take your CPNE. You said “If I was in a nursing program that I believed in”; you mean to tell me y

What a wet nose little manipulator you are--no wonder you are so drawn to Excelsior College. This is NOT ABOUT YOU--I DON't give a rat's behind about--you rude little peon!

Nursingstudent10 in Roberta, Georgia said: Hi new to this form. Joined is desperation. Just need to complete NC6 and NC7. Taking NC6 for the second time on May 12th. I own Lisa Arends and My study group 101 Nc6. Could some that has passed please tell me what it is on both CD's that is the most help in passing this exam? There is so much information (overload) what information section(s) is it that I need to pass? I thought that I was prepared the first time, but major shock when I didn't even register on the test chart. I am covering my Power points, flashcards, tapes and reading like crazy. What am I missing here?
Any and all help would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.

Hello, try looking over your LPN notes, also try to find the books EC uses on ebay for those tests. It is always a good idea to use more than one source for your information. Try an RN NCLEX study guide. Good luck and stay positive on your way to your RN

monique7 in Zephyrhills, Florida said: I agree with you, I did the Excelsior college too and couldn't pass the cpne. I wish I never started that program.

Hello Monique, did you try one of the prep programs? Call EC and ask to join one of the study groups for the CPNE use all resources including Youtube for the skills. You have spent so much time and effort in this program, it would be a shame not to finish it.

symonelondon@yahoo.com in Lithonia, Georgia said: Thank you!! Carolyn,
As it relates to the CPNE, I passed the first time, 7 in the group, 2 failed(i believe). One of the most rewarding yet challenging experiences that i've ever had. What prepared me the most, without question, was the actual disk that excelsior sends out once u finish all your concepts. It really prepared me from begging to end. It was definitely no joke!! But do-able. I prepared for about 3 months. Grab a hold of your nerves at all times! Remmeber you've come too far to fail. Pray, study, and go in confidence. If you fail one part, digest it, but then move on, part is not all! Get plenty of rest.
Good Luck!!
Symone

Can you tell me more about the CPNE? Do you attend one of the prep courses?

LPN in Clearwater, Florida said: Hello Monique, did you try one of the prep programs? Call EC and ask to join one of the study groups for the CPNE use all resources including Youtube for the skills. You have spent so much time and effort in this program, it would be a shame not to finish it.

I got all i could find; I am still studying hoping that I will make it next time.

sean 3321 in Wichita, Kansas said: I don't recommend going that route. It is not a teaching program. It is self-paced and for that reason it appeals to many people. The 7 or 8 tests that you take are pretty easy I thought--I took them and passed them fast, then they sent me study material for the CPNE and told me if you do it their way you can pass. But I backed out after all that dreaming of becoming an RN on principal of that CPNE, and what I feel is a manipulation. Some people have gone through it, and say it is good. But think about it--you spend all that time and money before you take the CPNE and if you don't pass it they take all your money anyway. Which can be over 3 grand with fees and travel expenses. EC will say people just are not prepared if they don't pass--but I say c'mon it is a crap shot. So many things can happen during that one important weekend in a clinical situation. I think this is a very destructive manipulation to some aspiring LPNs that want to be RNs--it might work out and it might not. I just do not feel it is really "fair-play" when you think about it. There are so many programs now for LPNs to become RNs at community colleges on-line--I just don't think EC is worth all the bother--and believe me even if you are quick and smart it is more trouble than traditional programs in my opinion--good luck to you. I graduated from a MN LPN program too.

Sean,
Do you know of any on line RN programs other that EC that will accept Respiratory Therapists (RRT)?

Lucius in Atlanta, Georgia said: Tisha,

Check out some of the earlier post. I made comment about using Lisa Arends($75)and Medstrong($50)software. WAY!!! Cheaper than TCN or RUE. You will have two sources to study from, I have passed NC 1 & 2 using only Lisa Arends. You will have to study the information, but she has it focused on what you need to learn to pass the exams.

Good Luck!!

Have you heard of Spring House notes? I am trying to figure out which books line up with each class. Any info appreciated.

OK, I have heard good things about Lisa Arends. Now, please tell me how to use her material. For instance, could I focus on her notes only for classes 1 and 2?
Would it be enough to study her chapter objectives by themselves? Does anyone have a game plan having used her material--that is what to focus on. the bare essentials. In other words do i need to study her entire packet or just certain parts for classes 1 and 2?

thanks so much for your input. anthony

scott tennison said: OK, I have heard good things about Lisa Arends. Now, please tell me how to use her material. For instance, could I focus on her notes only for classes 1 and 2?
Would it be enough to study her chapter objectives by themselves? Does anyone have a game plan having used her material--that is what to focus on. the bare essentials. In other words do i need to study her entire packet or just certain parts for classes 1 and 2?

thanks so much for your input. anthony

When you study Lisa Arends, you should focus on the Final Review. If you read all of her notes it would cover everything you need to know for the exams but she really has a lot of notes. What I would advise is to make flashcards from her final review, S.e.t.h’s bullets, and TTK (things to know). I also recommend purchasing MyStudyGroup101 (if you haven’t already) and study their final review as well. I only used LA’s (only) for NC1 got a B, NC2 got a C, NC7 got a B. I used LA and MSG101 NC6 got a A, NC3 got a B. I made flash cards using Lisa Arends and MSG101, together the reviews covered all the subject area of the test. Also, it depends on how you study, I made the following grades only studying for about 10-14 days maximum. So, if you plan on studying for at least 3-4 weeks you would be better prepared than I was.If you take a month, you have enough time to read all of her chapter notes, not all of that other stuff i.e. graphs,charts,articles,etc.With LA and MSG you have a total of about 260-390 cards (2 to 3 times as many questions (130 for the new test) that would be on the test. Once you study the flashcards and you can get at least 95% of them correct then you are ready to test.

RRT Ian in Epping, New Hampshire said: Have you heard of Spring House notes? I am trying to figure out which books line up with each class. Any info appreciated.

Ian,

I have seen some Spring House notes on amazon, but I have never used them myself for Excelsior. I am sure that the provide a lot of information as far as med-surg, pediatrics,etc. As far as material for Excelsior exams I have stated in earlier post and some of my most recent post of what has worked for me. Most people don't want to take a chance trust a stranger, but I challenge you to purchase Lisa Arends Essential of Nursing Care: Health Safety (I think this is the new Nursing Concepts 1) and MyStudyGroup101 Essential of NC 1: Health Safety. The total of both disc would be cheaper than buying one of the Spring House notes (29.95). They have a special on MSG101 at the Mystudygroup101.com where you can get the first two cd's Ess. of NC 1 & 2 for only $9.99 (you can even download MSG101 guides from the site). So it's only a small invest, so you can see for yourself that the material is worth it's weight in gold!

I am studying for NC 6. I bought the texts they recommend on ebay and amazon.com. I read the chapters they list in Course outline. I take notes on the information I do not already know . I have A's on every nursing exam so far. I know there are a lot of other sources out there. If you do what they tell you ,you will pass. There has not been one thing on the exams that was not in the required reading in the texts they listed. When you read you have a better under standing of the rationales,which helps you in making educated guesses on questions you are unsure of. It is a much better way than trying to memorize bullets. Bullets are good and flash cards once you reviewed the material but it is not the best way to have a permanent understanding. I did not buy the nutrition text ,most of that info is in the med surg book already. The meds are in med surg book also. Read and cross off of outline as you review. A week before test just re read your notes . You will do well.

RRT Ian in Epping, New Hampshire said: Have you heard of Spring House notes? I am trying to figure out which books line up with each class. Any info appreciated.

Ian,
Ian,
I also wanted to add, read some of my post for the information on what I purchased and the cost. It's the best material for the lowest price, don't spend thousands on services like TCN or Rue, or anyone who charges $300-$500 per study guide (each test cost $245 alone). Lisa Arends ($75 all of the nursing exams) , Mystudygroup101 ($55 all of the nursing exams), Medstrong ($50 all of the nursing exams) . Paying less than $200 for all of your study guides: Priceless!! I strongly recommend LA and MSG101.

Always do the practice exams Excelsior offers. Great help.Worth the money. Do it a week or two before test, so you can focus on areas you are weak in. Good Luck. This is a great program for anyone who is a motivated self learner.

I paid for 30$ to $50 dollars for the used text on ebay and amazon.com. You need fundamentals, medsurg,peds for NC1 to NC 4 . NC 5 i had to buy psych book also got for $30. I think theres one more i need for NC7 i will buy that when time comes. Dont buy from people selling expensive study guides its a con. people just out trying to make money. So many nurses i work with bought from people they thought were affiliated with nursing programs selling study guides and now they are in depts to them for thousands of dollars plus have to pay excelsior and needed to buy the texts anyway. i have dont so much better then them with texts they have failed using study guides because its like reading only the main topics of a novel without all the details you do not get the whole picture. You get a whole different impression in your brain.

Is there anyone out there that has made it all the way through to RN through Excelsior? I am currently working on my degree LPN-RN through Excelsior. Would like to know how hard it is to pass the clinical?

Jen in Clementon, New Jersey said: I paid for 30$ to $50 dollars for the used text on ebay and amazon.com. You need fundamentals, medsurg,peds for NC1 to NC 4 . NC 5 i had to buy psych book also got for $30. I think theres one more i need for NC7 i will buy that when time comes. Dont buy from people selling expensive study guides its a con. people just out trying to make money. So many nurses i work with bought from people they thought were affiliated with nursing programs selling study guides and now they are in depts to them for thousands of dollars plus have to pay excelsior and needed to buy the texts anyway. i have dont so much better then them with texts they have failed using study guides because its like reading only the main topics of a novel without all the details you do not get the whole picture. You get a whole different impression in your brain.

Jen,

I agree with you about NOT paying thousands of dollars for study guides. I have friends who are paying for TCN and they haven't even passed "1" exam!! I advocate buying less expensive material, even though Excelsior has the recommended textbooks and reference materials they are still expensive around $1300 for all the books which is still almost 4 times cheaper than TCN or RUE. I am just assuming you have never purchased Lisa Arends or Mystudygroup101 as study material. They are very in-depth, especially L.A., her material consist of (with permission from Excelsior) pages from the textbooks that Excelsior list as references for the test. She has graphs, articles, you name it she has it! Then to top it off she has a final review to re-cap everything you have read from her notes(about 125-200 pages per exam,practice test,and bullets. Her study guides outlined to cover everything listed in the Content guides printed by Excelsior. MSG101 does the same thing but they are not as long as L.A. MSG101 study guides are very good but you would need L.A. to complement it.

Jen in Clementon, New Jersey said: I paid for 30$ to $50 dollars for the used text on ebay and amazon.com. You need fundamentals, medsurg,peds for NC1 to NC 4 . NC 5 i had to buy psych book also got for $30. I think theres one more i need for NC7 i will buy that when time comes. Dont buy from people selling expensive study guides its a con. people just out trying to make money. So many nurses i work with bought from people they thought were affiliated with nursing programs selling study guides and now they are in depts to them for thousands of dollars plus have to pay excelsior and needed to buy the texts anyway. i have dont so much better then them with texts they have failed using study guides because its like reading only the main topics of a novel without all the details you do not get the whole picture. You get a whole different impression in your brain.

Jen,

To finish up what I was saying, I don't know how many exams you have left but try one of Lisa Arend's study guides for your next exam and come back to the Forum and put your honest, no-holds barred, opinion about the quality of the cd: as far as the material on it, the outline, the extra's, articles, etc- so that people can about Lisa Arends from someone other than myself. You say you sent $60-$80 (total for study guides for NC1-5), I am asking you spend $13 (includes shipping) for NC6 if you haven't taken it or NC7 if that is your last one. Good Luck with your exams!!

I think my plan is working pretty well. Don't fix it if it isnt broke they say. Thanks for the advice.

I didnt buy study guides I bought the text books the college recommends for the courses. Used I paid from 30 to 50 for them and I use them for every course not just one.There are also free study resources online that other people are using ,they posted on excelsior discussion boards. flashcardexchange.com and scribd.com.

Lisa in Chardon, Ohio said: Is there anyone out there that has made it all the way through to RN through Excelsior? I am currently working on my degree LPN-RN through Excelsior. Would like to know how hard it is to pass the clinical?

If you really want to know it is very hard

Lucius- Thanks for the information and financial layout. I am going to go ahead and follow through on your advice.
Thanks again.
Ian

Lucius in Atlanta, Georgia said: Anthony,

When you study Lisa Arends, you should focus on the Final Review. If you read all of her notes it would cover everything you need to know for the exams but she really has a lot of notes. What I would advise is to make flashcards from her final review, S.e.t.h’s bullets, and TTK (things to know). I also recommend purchasing MyStudyGroup101 (if you haven’t already) and study their final review as well. I only used LA’s (only) for NC1 got a B, NC2 got a C, NC7 got a B. I used LA and MSG101 NC6 got a A, NC3 got a B. I made flash cards using Lisa Arends and MSG101, together the reviews covered all the subject area of the test. Also, it depends on how you study, I made the following grades only studying for about 10-14 days maximum. So, if you plan on studying for at least 3-4 weeks you would be better prepared than I was.If you take a month, you have enough time to read all of her chapter notes, not all of that other stuff i.e. graphs,charts,articles,etc.With LA and MSG you have a total of about 260-390 cards (2 to 3 times as many questions (130 for the new test) that would be on the test. Once you study the flashcards and you can get at least 95% of them correct then you are ready to test.

thanks lucius for info. to claify, do the tests have 130 questions. also what is s.e.t.h. bullets? is s.e.t.h. and ttk in final review? thanks

scott tennison said: thanks lucius for info. to claify, do the tests have 130 questions. also what is s.e.t.h. bullets? is s.e.t.h. and ttk in final review? thanks

The old test Nursing Concepts 1-7 have 160 questions,the new test have 130 but there are 8 of them. Some of us are still under the old test until Sept. '09 (Dec '09 if you are in Georgia). Lisa Arends has a final review section on each disc, which contains a final study review, ttk, and s.e.t.h's bullets. The final study review covers all of the notes but concentrates on the most important things you should know for the test. The TTK "Things To Know" are the things that she thinks(without giving answers to the test)should be on the test. Ex:Congenital Anomalies are 10%(16 questions) of NC4 so she would cover the most important facts about the most common Congenital Anomalies. It also covers "small things" you might miss: CF(cystic fibrosis) usually diagnosed early,early absence of meconium stoole, Large foul smelling stools(alt in protein digestion), sweat chloride 2-5x normal. what you might miss is "Salty taste on child's skin", which may be the choice on the test. She teaches you "little things" to look for.

Did you pass the first time taking the clincal or did you need to repeat it again. I am just trying to decide if I should continue with Excelsior or go to a coummunity college. I can start this Fall. Don't want to continue with Excelsior if it is to hard to pass at the end,and end up spending thousands of dollars extra just to pass.

Lisa in Chardon, Ohio said: Did you pass the first time taking the clincal or did you need to repeat it again. I am just trying to decide if I should continue with Excelsior or go to a coummunity college. I can start this Fall. Don't want to continue with Excelsior if it is to hard to pass at the end,and end up spending thousands of dollars extra just to pass.

Well we have 3 times to take the clinical part or CPNE. They make it impossible to pass it and each time costs about $3,000 depending where you are traveling from. I tryed my best 2 times and I didn't pass it. I am going for the last time and even if I pass it I would never recommend anyone to do the Excelsior program. But the decision is yours, good luck

SassieMom in Phoenix, Arizona said: DO NOT use the College Network!!!! It's a total rip-off!!!! They are NOT Excelsior...they only seel books and charge fees. Please. please,please watchout...they will hold you to anything if you sign up and wont let you cancel!!!!!

I AGREE WITH YOU!!!

the College Network doesn't tell you all of the hidden fees the you will need to pay for such as testing fees for pearson/college course credits, the representatives do NOT tell you that you are STUCK with the program, you canNOT opt out and pay for the months you have used their site modules, they are very much NON-negotiable!!!

it is a VERY, VERY, VERY BAD IDEA TO SIGN UP FOR THE COLLEGE NETWORK EVEN IF THE PROGRAMS THEY REPRESENT TO YOU ARE SUGAR-COATED AND THEY SOUND GREAT...that is all that it is!!! it SOUNDS great, but it is the opposite!!!

i would not suggest, or refer these course to ANYONE!!!

Lucius in Atlanta, Georgia said: Sean3321 in Witchita, KS and Monique7 in Zephyrhills, Fl

I really believe that neither of you went to Excelsior. Probably just a couple of Bitter RN's that hate the Excelsior College program and are trying to discourage as many people as possible from going. I think you two are in on this together, for Monique who has been putting negative comments on here for the last month, I kinda felt sorry for you but now I realize that you are just stupid. Sean you say the CPNE is unfair, but you stated that you "NEVER TOOK THE CPNE?", that doesn't make sense to me. How can you call the CPNE unfair if you never did it? Sounds suspicious to me, as if you paid all your money to take the exams but HEARD the CPNE was UNFAIR and that made you not want to take it? So, let me guess you are going to start over, get put on a waiting list, maybe get accepted, and finish up in 3 to 4 years from now? That sounds really intelligent, LOL!!! Both of you are a couple of Idiots!!! I hope anyone who has been reading this Forum will not take these two people serious, and continue on with your educational goals. These are the type of people that don't have anything better to do than to discourage.

it's not because they're trying to discourage people, it's because they've experienced what they had to go through...did you even think about whether or not their state accepted the school's clinical hours or other requirements such as RN practice hours for different states? Those determine whether or not a different state will accept all the classes that EC has provided. I don't think you should shut them up just because you've had a better experience.

sean3321 in Wichita, Kansas said: I don't quite understand the backlash here. I can only relate to what I call my own self-deception while pursuing this program and waking up after studying for 6 months everyday for the CPNE and saying this is not right and the hard part of not believing in this program anymore. The scam part--I would concur there is a definite manipulation involved with EC-- But as someone once told me we are only manipulated if we want to be. I can not accept however that many people have been vulnerable and hurt by this program and treated unfairly--which I know many have.

i agree that there is certainly some deception involved in this program...expecially the RN-AA degree.

one of the EC reps i've spoken with provided me with false information regarding being an EC grad trying to endorse into California, where i am currently located, through the CA nursing board by case. the rep has told me that after graduating i would need to take the NCLEX-RN within another state, and the only possible way to endorse is through practicing in another state to gain certain practice hours, or work in a CA federal hospital like the VA.

Well, those information were also FALSE! I have contacted the CA Nursing Board and have found out that they do NOT accept ANY graduate from EC, and they do NOT make exceptions as I was informed!!! I was shocked and taken a-back!

Folks, if you are an LVN/LPN, just go through either the community college programs OR the private programs...those will benefit you...however, it is not to say that there are on-line programs out there that do not work...there are...but I suggest you RESEARCH all possible RN-AA/BSN on-line programs out there!

MAKE SURE YOU KNOW YOUR FACTS FROM FINE LINE DECEPTIONS...and if the representative you're speaking to is very friendly...and maybe he/she seems TOO friendly...that's your RED-FLAG!!! Do NOT sign any contracts!!!

Bill in San Clemente, California said: it's not because they're trying to discourage people, it's because they've experienced what they had to go through...did you even think about whether or not their state accepted the school's clinical hours or other requirements such as RN practice hours for different states? Those determine whether or not a different state will accept all the classes that EC has provided. I don't think you should shut them up just because you've had a better experience.

Bill,

I really have to ask you, did you read Sean and Monique's comments? They ARE trying to discourage people from enrolling in the Excelsior. And that is their right, I just commented on how many times they did it. One is enough to voice your opinion,feelings,anger or whatever. If you look at Monique's comments she specifically says (paraphasing) on several occassions "I wouldn't encourage anyone to do that program!" That sounds like discouragement to me. You are though, people should contact their state board of nursing to find out if they accept Excelsior students. Some states have certain conditions that have to be met before you can sit for the Nclex or endorse into the state. There are a few states that do not accept Excelsior, but most states do. Oh yeah, even if California doesn't accept Excelsior, you can still work at any Federal Facility. The California board of nursing "does not have any authority at all" over any Federal medical facility. I have study partner who informed me that you fell under the lvn grandfather clause (have to have graduated from a course before the ban) in "California" if you graduate from Excelsior you can sit for the nclex.

Simeon in San Clemente, California said: i agree that there is certainly some deception involved in this program...expecially the RN-AA degree.

one of the EC reps i've spoken with provided me with false information regarding being an EC grad trying to endorse into California, where i am currently located, through the CA nursing board by case. the rep has told me that after graduating i would need to take the NCLEX-RN within another state, and the only possible way to endorse is through practicing in another state to gain certain practice hours, or work in a CA federal hospital like the VA.

Well, those information were also FALSE! I have contacted the CA Nursing Board and have found out that they do NOT accept ANY graduate from EC, and they do NOT make exceptions as I was informed!!! I was shocked and taken a-back!

Folks, if you are an LVN/LPN, just go through either the community college programs OR the private programs...those will benefit you...however, it is not to say that there are on-line programs out there that do not work...there are...but I suggest you RESEARCH all possible RN-AA/BSN on-line programs out there!

MAKE SURE YOU KNOW YOUR FACTS FROM FINE LINE DECEPTIONS...and if the representative you're speaking to is very friendly...and maybe he/she seems TOO friendly...that's your RED-FLAG!!! Do NOT sign any contracts!!!

Simeon,

Are you saying that you were told that you could not work at a VA hospital in California if you graduated from Excelsior? You said "Do NOT sign any contracts!!!" who were you talking about? Are you saying Excelsior wanted you to sign a contract with them? I am just trying to get a clear understand of what you are trying to say. I have never been asked to sign a contract with Excelsior, are you talking about the TCN or somebody else? I am still in the military (army reserves now), my unit use to drill at the VA hospital Atlanta,GA. So, clarify for me please.

MyStudyGroup101, it will fill the gaps from Lisa Arends & Medstrong. When I study Lisa Arends ...alone will get you a "C" at the bare minimum. ... MSG101 covered some things Lisa Arends didn't and using them together I made an "A" on NC6. Using only Lisa Arends will pass all of the exams, but with MSG101 and Medstrong will definitely pass all of them(If you study hard & smart)..

I would highly recommend mystudygroup101 www.studygroup101.com for all the EC stuff. It's really complete and printable and I've passed everything so far with A's and B's. You can get it on CD or download for less than $10. Lisa's is hard to navigate and there's too many passwords and you can't print half of it so I just don't use them and the Medstrong stuff is FREE from yahoo groups.

There are several CPNE Workshops that you can attend - one is Lynn's - www.clinicalprepexam.com - they seem to get good results for most students. And you can get a dvd www.robscpne.com Also check out yahoo groups 'freehelpexcelsiorstudents' - there are people there who have taken the workshops and can give you more details.

I am just making up my mind to go into the nursing field after seeing my sister in the hospital. I am not just in it for the money, I paid pretty decent now but I have a genuine feeling for people in pain, I hate to see people who are hurting. Thats why I decided its time for a change. I am going to take the TABE test next week to get into the LPN program at a Technical school in ft lauderdale, fl. They are accredited and highly recommended by previous students. I have a lot respect for all the veteran nurses hopefully I can learn a lot from them. I get 13 credits towards a RN BS degree at a local college when I am done. Me and another sister of mine is taking the course together pray for us that we make it!

Thanks

new to the nursing field in Fort Lauderdale, Florida said: I am just making up my mind to go into the nursing field after seeing my sister in the hospital. I am not just in it for the money, I paid pretty decent now but I have a genuine feeling for people in pain, I hate to see people who are hurting. Thats why I decided its time for a change. I am going to take the TABE test next week to get into the LPN program at a Technical school in ft lauderdale, fl. They are accredited and highly recommended by previous students. I have a lot respect for all the veteran nurses hopefully I can learn a lot from them. I get 13 credits towards a RN BS degree at a local college when I am done. Me and another sister of mine is taking the course together pray for us that we make it!

Thanks

I forgot to ask when I go this route do anybody knows how long it will take to get my RN in florida?

Ray in San Clemente, California said: I AGREE WITH YOU!!!

the College Network doesn't tell you all of the hidden fees the you will need to pay for such as testing fees for pearson/college course credits, the representatives do NOT tell you that you are STUCK with the program, you canNOT opt out and pay for the months you have used their site modules, they are very much NON-negotiable!!!

it is a VERY, VERY, VERY BAD IDEA TO SIGN UP FOR THE COLLEGE NETWORK EVEN IF THE PROGRAMS THEY REPRESENT TO YOU ARE SUGAR-COATED AND THEY SOUND GREAT...that is all that it is!!! it SOUNDS great, but it is the opposite!!!

i would not suggest, or refer these course to ANYONE!!!

I agree, no more comment

Bill in San Clemente, California said: it's not because they're trying to discourage people, it's because they've experienced what they had to go through...did you even think about whether or not their state accepted the school's clinical hours or other requirements such as RN practice hours for different states? Those determine whether or not a different state will accept all the classes that EC has provided. I don't think you should shut them up just because you've had a better experience.

Thank you Bill for your understanding

Simeon in San Clemente, California said: i agree that there is certainly some deception involved in this program...expecially the RN-AA degree.

one of the EC reps i've spoken with provided me with false information regarding being an EC grad trying to endorse into California, where i am currently located, through the CA nursing board by case. the rep has told me that after graduating i would need to take the NCLEX-RN within another state, and the only possible way to endorse is through practicing in another state to gain certain practice hours, or work in a CA federal hospital like the VA.

Well, those information were also FALSE! I have contacted the CA Nursing Board and have found out that they do NOT accept ANY graduate from EC, and they do NOT make exceptions as I was informed!!! I was shocked and taken a-back!

Folks, if you are an LVN/LPN, just go through either the community college programs OR the private programs...those will benefit you...however, it is not to say that there are on-line programs out there that do not work...there are...but I suggest you RESEARCH all possible RN-AA/BSN on-line programs out there!

MAKE SURE YOU KNOW YOUR FACTS FROM FINE LINE DECEPTIONS...and if the representative you're speaking to is very friendly...and maybe he/she seems TOO friendly...that's your RED-FLAG!!! Do NOT sign any contracts!!!

I agree

Lucius in Atlanta, Georgia said: Bill,

I really have to ask you, did you read Sean and Monique's comments? They ARE trying to discourage people from enrolling in the Excelsior. And that is their right, I just commented on how many times they did it. One is enough to voice your opinion,feelings,anger or whatever. If you look at Monique's comments she specifically says (paraphasing) on several occassions "I wouldn't encourage anyone to do that program!" That sounds like discouragement to me. You are though, people should contact their state board of nursing to find out if they accept Excelsior students. Some states have certain conditions that have to be met before you can sit for the Nclex or endorse into the state. There are a few states that do not accept Excelsior, but most states do. Oh yeah, even if California doesn't accept Excelsior, you can still work at any Federal Facility. The California board of nursing "does not have any authority at all" over any Federal medical facility. I have study partner who informed me that you fell under the lvn grandfather clause (have to have graduated from a course before the ban) in "California" if you graduate from Excelsior you can sit for the nclex.

Lucy, I will repeat it, I do not encourage anyone to do the Excelsior program but the decision is yours

mustang985 in La Place, Louisiana said: YOU CAN ALWAYS WORK AT A VA HOSPITAL AS AN RN. TRYING TAKING THE NCLEX IN ANOTHER STATE THEN WORK AT THE VA IN YOUR STATE TRY LOOKING INTO THAT

Do you mean, the VA doesn't require you to have a resident state license? Kewl.
Do you know where this documentation can be found, online?

LeeLee in Birmingham, Alabama said: Do you mean, the VA doesn't require you to have a resident state license? Kewl.
Do you know where this documentation can be found, online?

Lee,

The only thing the VA requires is that you have a valid, unrestricted license. So, if you live in a state that does not endorse Excelsior grads you can test for New York and work in a Alabama VA facility. I tried to copy part of a job requirement section for you but all of it might not fit.

Job Requirements

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the world's largest health care system and the nation's leading employer of registered nurses. The VHA with the Veterans Benefits and National Cemetery Administration comprises the Department of Veterans Affairs which is the second largest of the 15 Cabinet departments. Nurses in VHA are engaged in a variety of roles and have multiple opportunities for career and professional development.

The Medical Surgical Nurse is a staff RN that provides nursing care and preventive health services in the impatient setting of VA Medical and/or Surgical Nursing Units. The RN role includes assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of patient care. In concert with the health care delivery team the RN collaborates with other professionals to achieve patient care outcomes and goals. Depending on education and experience, the incumbent may also be assigned responsibilities as preceptor, charge nurse, or unit shift leader.

Benefits:

? 26 days of paid annual (vacation/personal) leave each year.
? 13 days of sick leave each year.
? 15 days of military leave each year for active reservists and National Guard members.
? 10 paid Federal holidays each year.
? Liability protection.
? Educational and research benefits through facility-based continuing medical education, opportunity for participation in state-of-the-art research programs, and the opportunity to provide training for health care trainees.
?Op

LeeLee in Birmingham, Alabama said: Do you mean, the VA doesn't require you to have a resident state license? Kewl.
Do you know where this documentation can be found, online?

Continued:

Job Requirements

?Opportunities for scholarship funding of baccalaureate degree in nursing and advanced degrees in nursing or related field.
?Career development opportunities and ability to transfer to VA facilities located throughout the United States.

Position Requirements
Minimum Qualifications for appointment as a VA nurse are:
? Citizenship - Citizen of the United States
? Graduate of a school of professional nursing approved by an appropriate State agency and accredited by either NLNAC or CCNE at the time the applicant completed the program.
? Current, full, active and unrestricted registration as a graduate professional nurse in a state, Territory, or commonwealth (i.e., Puerto Rico), of the United States or in the District of Columbia.
Compliance with Physical Standards requirements
? Successful professional record for experienced nurses.
? English language proficiency - must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d).

Note: Non-citizens and graduates of foreign schools of professional nursing should contact the nurse recruiter at the specific VA facility for which they are seeking employment.

LeeLee in Birmingham, Alabama said: Do you mean, the VA doesn't require you to have a resident state license? Kewl.
Do you know where this documentation can be found, online?

All you have to do is go on VA Careers or the Department of Veteran Affairs website and click on jobs. Anyone can find this information on the site.

Lucius in Atlanta, Georgia said: All you have to do is go on VA Careers or the Department of Veteran Affairs website and click on jobs. Anyone can find this information on the site.

Lucias, Awsome answers, thanks for goin to so much trouble to find them.
I'm sre with an attitude like that you'll be an awsome Nurse!

FYI: I am in the US Army, I am a medic, I have just enrolled, ALL EXAMS are FREE!
The VA hospital is where I would want to work anyway.

It's a great program from what I've heard. Thanks again for your research.

LeeLee in Birmingham, Alabama said: Lucias, Awsome answers, thanks for goin to so much trouble to find them.
I'm sre with an attitude like that you'll be an awsome Nurse!

FYI: I am in the US Army, I am a medic, I have just enrolled, ALL EXAMS are FREE!
The VA hospital is where I would want to work anyway.

It's a great program from what I've heard. Thanks again for your research.

Lee,

No Problem!

FYI: I am in the Army(reserves now), was military police, then became a medic. Echo 232 "Echo Rocks Tha House!", then I got my Lpn. If you need any help you can send a message to luciusdotoliveratUSdotarmydotMil.

Lucius,

I'm in the reserve now, too.
When you were first enrolled at Excelsior,
How many semester hours did Combat medic get for you?