As more students compete for limited slots in public college nursing programs, many nursing students are turning to private nursing schools. In California, in 2021, 64,300 applicants competed for 16,600 spots in nursing programs at all education levels. Private nursing programs offered 55 percent of these spots. While public school nursing slots have remained level in the last decade, private school slots have more than doubled. In California, private nursing programs graduate three times more nurses with bachelor's degrees than public school programs. Private nursing programs have created many challenges for nurses, which can easily lead to licensing issues.  

The Lento Law Firm is a nationwide leader in defending licensed nurses. If you are a nurse facing discipline or a challenge to your degree or license, call the Lento Law Firm Professional License Defense Team at 888.535.3686 or leave your details online, and we will contact you. 

The Cost of Private Programs  

The move to private nursing programs has created many issues for nursing students and graduates. Most significantly, the cost of private nursing programs is much higher—up to seven times that of a public program in California. A traditional four-year public nursing program may cost less than $40,000, while the same degree may cost upwards of $200,000 from a private nursing school. The exact amount depends on location, school reputation, and the degree sought.  

Private nursing school students often graduate with large amounts of student loan debt. The good news is that even with higher private tuition, a cost-to-benefit analysis shows a nursing education is usually a good investment. However, the nurse must remain licensed and employed to get a return on the significant investment of time and money required for a nursing degree.  

Private Nursing Graduates Face Unique Challenges 

To pay for more expensive private programs, nurses must work long hours, sometimes in areas in which they have little clinical experience. Hospitals and care facilities suspended some training programs during the pandemic, and many are not providing the training that nurses need. To make matters worse, some private nursing programs have been targeted for compliance issues, with nursing boards questioning the validity of nursing degrees. It's a hard pill to swallow for a student who has invested so much time and money in these programs.  

These Challenges May Lead to License Issues 

Overwork and a lack of training can easily cascade into an issue with the nursing board. For private nursing graduates, it is vital to maintain a license, stable employment, and a good reputation. Nurses faced with overwork or a lack of training should not face discipline from state licensing boards. The rising costs of a nursing degree make defending a nursing license vital. After such a significant investment of money and time, you need to be able to work and rise in your profession.  

The Lento Law Firm Represents Nurses 

The Lento Law Firm understands nursing issues and knows the law. Our team of lawyers can defend your license and reputation before the state licensing board or any other complaint investigation. Call the Lento Law Firm at 888-535-3686 or contact us online.