Choosing a nursing program is a significant decision, and understanding the financial aspects is crucial. If you’re considering the Registered Nurse (RN) program at American Career College (ACC), this guide breaks down the tuition and fees associated with the program, helping you make an informed choice about your education.
Decoding the Costs: American Career College RN Program Tuition
The investment in your nursing education at American Career College involves several components, starting with an application fee. For Associate degree programs, including the RN program, there is a $60 nonrefundable application fee required upon enrollment. It’s important to note this fee is separate from tuition costs and is a standard part of the enrollment process.
Beyond the application fee, the primary cost to consider is tuition itself. While the exact per-term tuition can vary and is subject to change, it’s essential to understand the structure. At ACC, Nursing Core courses (identified by course codes starting with NURS) are billed at a rate of $1,128 per credit. In addition to these core nursing courses, the RN program curriculum includes General Education and specific science courses like Anatomy (ANAT111), Physics (PHYS111), Microbiology (MICR112), and Pharmacology (PHARM113). These supporting courses are billed at a lower rate of $300 per credit, helping to balance the overall cost of your education.
What’s Included in Your American Career College RN Program Fees?
Besides tuition, program fees are an integral part of the overall cost. These fees at American Career College are program-specific and cover a range of essential items and services designed to support your learning experience. These can include:
- Customized Uniforms: Ensuring a professional and consistent appearance during your clinical and lab sessions.
- Classroom Consumables: Materials used directly in your coursework and practical training.
- Administrative and Technology Fees: Supporting the infrastructure and resources necessary for your program, including online learning platforms and administrative services.
- Campus Safety Resources: Contributing to a secure learning environment, including security personnel, surveillance systems, and emergency protocols.
- Clinical and Degree Program Specific Fees: For the RN program, these fees are particularly important. They cover costs related to:
- Health and Background Screenings: Ensuring patient safety and meeting healthcare industry standards.
- Test Preparation: Resources to help you prepare for crucial nursing exams.
- Examinations: Costs associated with administering and grading exams throughout your program.
- Licensure and Certification: Fees that may be associated with your initial nursing licensure process after graduation.
- ATI Fee: Specifically for the ADN program, an ATI fee of $3,685 is applied in the first term.
- Other Program Fees: An additional $390 in other program fees.
- Clinical Fees: $775 in clinical fees are applied in terms 2 through 8 of the ADN program.
It’s also important to note that program fees also encompass books, a laptop computer, digital or electronic course materials, and other supplies. American Career College aims to provide these materials at competitive market rates, often below what you might find elsewhere. While students have the option to opt out and purchase these materials from other sources by the 7th day of class, it’s crucial to ensure you obtain all required materials. In cases where course materials are exclusively available through the institution, opting out is not possible.
Understanding the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) in California
For students who are California residents or enrolled in a residency program and prepay tuition, the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) is a critical aspect of financial protection. Established by the State of California, STRF is designed to mitigate economic loss in specific situations.
Key points about STRF:
- Assessment: While historically there was a STRF assessment, effective April 1, 2024, the STRF assessment rate is zero dollars ($0.00) per one thousand dollars ($1,000) of institutional charges. This means currently, there is no additional charge for STRF for students with a first payment scheduled after April 1, 2024.
- Eligibility: You are generally required to pay the STRF assessment (when applicable) if you are a California resident or in a residency program and prepay tuition. Non-California residents and those not in residency programs are not eligible for STRF protection and do not pay the assessment.
- Protection Scenarios: STRF provides potential reimbursement in cases where the institution closes, discontinues a program, fails to provide refunds ordered by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, or in other specific circumstances outlined by the state.
- Application Timeline: To be eligible for STRF reimbursement, you must apply within four years of the event that makes you eligible.
It’s highly recommended to keep thorough records of your enrollment agreement, financial aid documents, receipts, and any documentation related to payments made to the school. For any questions regarding STRF, you can contact the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education directly.
Additional Costs to Budget For
Beyond tuition and program fees, remember to budget for potential additional costs such as:
- Transportation: The estimated total charges for the RN program typically do not include transportation costs to externship or clinical sites. This is your responsibility and should be factored into your overall budget.
- Optional Supplies: While books and core supplies are often covered in fees or available at competitive rates, you might have personal preferences for additional study aids or resources.
Making Your Investment in Nursing Education at ACC
Understanding the tuition and fees associated with the American Career College RN program is a vital step in your educational journey. By carefully reviewing these costs and considering the value of the comprehensive education and resources provided, you can confidently plan your path toward a rewarding nursing career. For the most up-to-date and personalized tuition information, it’s always best to directly contact American Career College and speak with their admissions or financial aid department. They can provide detailed breakdowns and answer any specific questions you may have.
