Before choosing a nursing school, make a decision about the type of program you're interested in pursuing, including any particular clinical specialties. Upon locating a school that provides a suitable program, there are other factors to take into account. For example, because medicine is a constantly evolving industry, determine if the school and program chosen provide you with the knowledge and experience relevant to the current job market. Check out what sort of computer and laboratory facilities the school has. Also find out about the school's affiliation with hospitals and clinics and the type and frequency of clinical rotation opportunities offered as part of the program.
Consider the school's location, the size of the school, class sizes, tuition fees and the school's ranking as compared to other nursing schools. Ask the school about student-to-faculty ratios, as small class sizes are more conducive to learning, particularly in a clinical environment. Take a look at the overall size of the prospective institution and think about whether a larger or smaller nursing school best suits your plans. Another important factor is the cost of attending a particular school, as there are dramatic variations in tuition fees among different schools and the financial aid that may be available.
An important quality assurance of a nursing school is its accreditation by either the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission, or NLNAC, or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, or CCNE. Such accreditation indicates that the school is meeting the standards for nursing education set by these organizations. All types of programs are accredited by NLNAC, but CCNE only provides quality assurance for baccalaureate and graduate nursing education programs. Students attending accredited nursing schools have access to government-funded programs, qualify for higher education and have a greater chance of finding immediate employment upon graduation.
All nursing schools should be able to provide potential students with data relating to their National Council Licensure Examination, or NCLEX, passing rates for the past five to 10 years. If a high percentage of a school's students regularly pass the examination, this is an excellent indication that the school's graduates are well prepared to practice.