What is the difference between Associate's and "diploma" programs if already have BA? - Page 2

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  1. Jun 20, '09 by
    Quote from jjjoy
    To play devil's advocate, the higher degree might usually win out all else being equal between applicants. However, if one graduates from a program that leaves them feeling clinically underprepared, the lack of confidence could be an obstacle as well. Especially if the employment market is tight for new grads, feeling less than confident in one's abilities could be a real hindrance.

    Of course, many students do just fine in programs that don't provide *as much* practical, realistic clinical experience as some other programs. They graduate and are up to speed in no time, in no way lagging behind other graduates. I just know that given my own personal strengths and weaknesses that if I had to do it again, I'd go for the program with a reputation for providing lots of practical clinical experience.

    I graduated feeling like I didn't have much to offer an employer as a nurse. I had no clue how I'd handle more than 2 patients. No experience working with physicians. I knew HOW to assess but didn't have enough experience to have it mean a whole lot. Kinda like looking under the hood of a car and recognizing the components and being able to spot BIG problems (huh, shouldn't the engine be there?) but that's about it. Outside of CNA-level work, doing lengthy unrealistic assessments, addressing psychsoc issues, and oral med administration, there just wasn't much opportunity to practice other RN responsibilities.

    And so while my BSN might have helped me get a job, I think the value of FEELING more confident in my ability to *function* as a nurse (not just *think* like one) would have served me better in both the long and short run.
    thanks " jjjoy"...so, are you saying that you would prefer the diploma programs as they are more hands-on?
  2. Jun 22, '09 by
    I'm saying I would chose the program, whatever kind that may be, that had a strong reputation for providing strong clinical training. Oftentimes, diploma programs do have that reputation. Oftentimes, BSN program have a reputation for de-emphasizing hands-on skills. But every program is different and so I don't want to make generalizations about diploma programs being "more hands-on" than other nursing programs. Each program must be evaluated individually.

    And I again want to emphasize that would be MY preference due to my learning style and experience. Critical thinking is second nature to me but learning and applying clinical skills to real people in real-time, with a multitude of variabilities, time pressures, competing demands, and sometimes abrasive personalities is NOT something that comes natural to me.
  3. Aug 27, '09 by
    Quote from yalienne
    Yale MSN program does not have pre-nursing requirements. All you need is GRE score and Bachelor degree in any other field. The program is called GEPN.

    Once you are accepted, NYU's BSN program will allow to complete the nursing requirement at their school. I will recommend getting the BSN instead of getting a diploma or an ASN degree.

    Now is the not the time to get diploma or ASN degree when so many career changer are coming out with BSN and MSN degrees.

    Good Luck!!! I was in the same boat last fall. I tool a chance applied to both Yale and NYU and I got into both. Good Luck!!!!
    I disagree with you! I went to St joeseph school of nursing in RI. Which is a diploma 3 year program. We left the program having more clinical experience than any school out there in this area. Also we are regarded as some of the best grad nurse's with a great reputation. With that being said look into whatever program you are intersted in. Check out the pass rate of the NCLEX as well for what ever school you are looking to apply for. A few years ago even though UCONN has a great nursing program they had a low pass rate.
    :heartbeatTricia:heartbeat
  4. Sep 4, '09 by
    If you have a BA, seems like a BSN would make the most sense generally speaking. Many second bachelors programs take 2 years, the same as ADN programs. If you know that you never plan to advance your degree maybe go with the ADN but otherwise going back for that BSN after the fact will take you another 2 years meaning at least 4 years total. If I had a BA, I would have gone for my BSN.
    Quote from cath0510
    I am awaiting results on my applications to BHSN and NCC and am running into some confusing info about Associate's vs. "diploma" programs.


    Because of cost and timing, I opted to pursue the nursing program at NCC or BHSN rather than a "second-degree" BSN program. Ultimately, I'd like to pursue an advanced nursing degree (prob. do a RN to MSN program), but my immediate goal is to get my RN and start working.
    • Since I already have my BA, does it make a difference (with respect to future education), if I get the "diploma" from BHSN or the associates from NCC? My gut says "no," but I need to make sure.
    • Is one degree (Assoc. or diploma) or program (BHSN vs. NCC) more attractive to employers* and advanced nursing-education programs?

      *I'd esp. like to hear from nurse-recruiters on this subject.
    I've heard good things about both BHSN and NCC. I am leaning toward BHSN, however, because it has an accelerated program and because of what I've read about its clinical program. But I really want to make the choice that supports both my short-term employment goals and long-term education/advancement objectives.

    Thanks!