How to choose a healthcare program

1. Does it lead to the job you want?

Start from the career. Check what your target role needs: a certificate, an associate degree, a bachelor's or a graduate degree. Explore careers shows the typical entry-level education BLS reports for each role.

2. Is it approved by the state?

For nursing, the program must be approved by a state board of nursing. That approval is what makes graduates eligible for the NCLEX. CNA programs must be approved by the state too. Check the board's or health department's list yourself.

3. Is it accredited by the right agency?

Many professions require graduating from a program accredited by a specific agency, such as CODA for dental hygiene, CAPTE for physical therapy or ACOTE for occupational therapy. Look the program up in the accreditor's own directory. Accreditation, explained.

4. Do graduates pass the licensing exam?

Ask for recent first-time pass rates. Many boards of nursing publish NCLEX pass rates by program.

5. Are clinical placements guaranteed?

Ask where students do clinical hours, how placements are assigned, and whether students ever have to find their own sites.

6. What will it really cost?

Add up tuition, fees, books, uniforms, equipment, exam and licensing fees, and transportation to clinical sites. Compare schools' costs and graduates' outcomes on the Department of Education's College Scorecard, and file the FAFSA to see what aid you qualify for. Paying for school.

7. Will the credits carry forward?

If you might continue later (CNA to LPN, ADN to BSN), ask how credits transfer and whether the program has agreements with other schools.

Red flags

• The school can't tell you who approves or accredits the program
• It promises a job or a license (only boards issue licenses)
• Pressure to sign or pay the same day