I'm planning to study nursing and looking at community colleges in Illinois. I want a program with a good reputation and solid transfer opportunities. Which community colleges should I consider for nursing in Illinois?
In Illinois, several community colleges offer highly regarded nursing programs with strong transfer opportunities to four-year institutions. Here are a couple you might consider:
1. College of DuPage (COD): Located in Glen Ellyn, COD's Nursing program is designed to help students qualify as registered nurses in two years. Their Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Nursing prepares students for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). The College of DuPage also has transfer agreements with several four-year institutions.
2. Harper College: Situated in Palatine, Harper College offers an Associate in Applied Science in Nursing degree that prepares students for initial licensure examination for Registered Nurses. The college boasts of a high pass rate for NCLEX-RN, which is indicative of the quality of their education. Harper College also has partnership transfer agreements with various universities.
Remember to thoroughly explore each program's curriculum, reviews, and transfer partnerships. Reach out to their guidance counselors or admissions office—they can provide invaluable personalized advice and details. Be sure to consider your specific situation and goals when choosing a program. For example, if you're aiming to transfer to a specific four-year college after your program, it would be beneficial to pick a community college that has a solid transfer agreement with that institution—or one that has a good track record of students transferring to that institution.
Also, take the time to visit campuses, if possible. An in-person visit can give you a feel for what it's like to attend the college, what the campus atmosphere is like, and whether it's a good fit for you. It's important to choose a college where you feel comfortable and supported. Good luck on your college journey!
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