Which is preferred as a nursing major: a hospital based nursing school or a 4 year university nursing program?

In the end it really doesn't matter where you get your education, you will need to sit and take the State Nursing Exam to get licensed as an RN. No employer really cares where you went to school as long as you have your license. Hands on at a hospital will probably make you a very good nurse in the real world, but you need to make sure you learn enough book knowledge as the test has book knowledge questions that you may actually apply differently in the real world. If I were you ask the hospital that is providing the training how many students participate, and what is the percentage of them passing the State test the 1st time around. As long as this isn't a new program w/the hospital and they can provide you w/statistics on how well the students do, and the information is good then there is no real reason to pursue a degree from a University other than at a University you will have less hands on exp, and more book work. Ultimately this is your decision, and as long as where you go to get your degree you will be educated properly to pass the test and both places are an accredited qualifying school/program that will make you eligible to take the State Test then either choice is fine. Healthcare HR Manager

4 yrs if you intend to advance up the promotion ladder or ever want to relocate.

I don't think either one is preferred. Universities cost THOUSANDS of dollars more, take longer. Why not do a hospital based program, get your associates degree and nursing diploma, and then go to an RN-BSN program at the University? This way, you will have a job while you are attending school, and you will have LOTS of experience!! Way more than any of the graduates of the BSN program will if they aren't already a nurse! There is nothing wrong with hospital based nursing programs. They just specilize in nursing, where as the University offers other majors besides nursing. You know, lots of people who have BSNs make the same as someone with an associates degree could make, or only like $2 more an hour. Not a big difference considering the thousands more you spend in school, still not working as an RN. I think it all depends on your situation, your kids, your family life, do you work? Will you be able to make ends meet while you are in a full time nursing program at a University for 4 years? If you can't make it, just go be an RN, and take it from there.

Either one will get you a license. With the current nursing workforce shortage and the projections for the shortage to increase, a two year degree leading to an RN license will lead to employment as quickly as a 4 year degree. That being said, RNs holding a four year degree have been shown to employ more science based practice and, therefore, is the better course over the long term.

University, unless you plan on working for that hospital and even retiring from there. Go to school, that makes you appealing no matter where you work.

Depends on how much money and time you have to start earning money . Hospital based is faster and cheaper, you pretty much get the same salary starting out with 2yr vs 4yr. College is better for long term, moving up, career growth.. you can always get the hospital based while working do online bsn program or a 1yr bridge program.