Asking a program director or school representative "what is the typical time to degree completion" can provide insight into several important factors that impact overall experience and success in the program such as:

• Planning and Cost: Helps you anticipate time and expenses, including tuition and living costs.
• Program Quality: Reflects the program's structure, support, and student success rates.
• Career Alignment: Ensures meeting licensure/certification requirements and timely entry into the workforce.
• Resources and Support: Indicates the availability of advising, mentorship, and flexibility for diverse needs.
• Reputation and Risks:  Use degree completion time to assess effectiveness of the curriculum and resources.

Asking a program director or school representative "what is the retention rate" can help you assess the program's quality, resources, and likelihood of student success.

 Higher retention rates can be an indicator of the following:

• Student Satisfaction: students are satisfied with the program, resources, and support.
• Program Quality: effective teaching, advising, and a supportive learning environment.
• Likelihood of Completion: students are more likely to stay and graduate.
• Support Services: availability and effectiveness of academic and personal support systems.

The pass rate for culminating exams is important because it reflects several key factors about the program. 

Higher pass rates can be an indicator of the following: 

• Program Quality: strong curriculum alignment with licensure/certification requirements.
• Faculty Expertise: knowledgeable faculty who effectively prepare students.
• Student Support: availability of test prep, tutoring, and academic resources.
• Accreditation and Reputation:  evidence that program meets established standards of quality and rigor
• Personal Investment: ensures your time and money lead to successful certification.
• Competitive Edge: improves likelihood of licensure/certification and employment.

NCLEX pass-rate for undergraduate programs can be found on the Maryland Department of Health Board of Nursing website

Ask a program director or school representative for the advanced practice nursing certification pass rate for graduate programs.  

Assistantships can be a game-changer for your graduate experience, so it’s crucial to explore these opportunities thoroughly when choosing a program.  Graduate and Teaching Assistantships can provide:

• Financial Support
• Professional Development
• Networking Opportunities
• Skill Development
• Program Integration
• Resume Enhancement

 When evaluating programs, ask a program director or school representative specific questions about:

• The number and type of assistantships available.
• The eligibility criteria and application process.
• The responsibilities and workload.
• The financial benefits (tuition coverage, stipends, health insurance).
• Training and support provided

The nursing program mission/vision statement can help you determine if the program's values, priorities, and long-term goals align with your own educational and career aspirations.  The mission/vision statement can reveal:

• Program Focus: whether the program emphasizes research, hands-on learning, and/or community engagement.
• Institutional Priorities: commitment to areas like diversity, innovation, and/or global impact.
• Culture and Reputation: the university’s environment—collaborative, competitive, or socially driven.
• Instructional Delivery Mode: in-person, online, or hybrid learning environment. 
• Long Term Investment: future growth, student support, and opportunities for development.

The Mission/Vision Statement can often be found on the nursing program website.