Having taught in a handful of ADN programs, the tension with selecting a program to officially enroll in is either time or cost. Most private ADN programs do not have a wait list or a very short waiting time whereas most state or public schools have limited enrollment and longer wait times(usually in the months to years). This delayed enrollment time can be difficult for a student to wait that long. The trade off is shorter to no wait times at private schools but the cost is usually 2-3x or more. The pros to private schools is typically: flexibility, ability to make changes per year or semester, a variety of enrollment options, fast tracks, and quicker finish times- but it all comes at a higher cost. For public schools, the cost is usually significantly less but now you're dealing with the government running the program(think DMV but quicker and a bit perkier). The public programs will be cheaper but not offer a variety of programs and usually have traditional semesters. I tend to gravitate towards the public programs and have been involved with both. I like the private schools for their flexibility but the price seems pretty high. I'd be willing to wait to pay less and take longer(and get a health care job in the process for experience). Taking one's time, exploring both options and being careful to not overspend to take out debt and how about praying and asking God for guidance, can all lead to making a solid decision. Bottom line is this- either way, the degree still earns an RN which is what North America, especially the USA needs now and what employers want for direct patient care.
Students who excel in web-based ADN programs are as disciplined, focused, and persistent as I've seen dedicated yoga students be. If you are independently motivated, don't need reminders, and can learn well without lots of feedback, web-based nursing education offers flexibility and independence. But if motivation is an issue or you live unstructured, this isn't something to attempt. Studying complicated material with no peer assistance or ready access to instructors opens up weak study habits quickly. Accreditation and state licensure are not optional. You must check that the program is accredited by a national agency and complies with your state's licensure standards. There are different rules in each state. Phone the board in person. Do not listen to rumors or marketing hype. Without actual approval, you will not sit for the NCLEX, and your money and time will be for naught in terms of earning a license. To decide between an ADN, a BSN, or an LPN-to-RN route, it's about your long-term goal. ADN gets you there quicker, but BSN does more and looks better to competitive hiring. LPN-to-RN bridges are helpful if you're currently in healthcare and just want to add to your experience. Ask yourself where you want to be in five years as far as kind of responsibility and environment. Web ADN programs provide you with flexibility but eliminate human interaction. You miss collective energy, immediate feedback, and live correction, things that are important in both yoga and nursing. To differentiate, exceed minimums. Include CPR or phlebotomy certification. Find mentors. Employ your clinicals as relationship-building times and question times. Don't treat this as school only, treat it as career preparation from day one.