I apologize in advance for this long post....

I am currently in my second year of the ADN program (will finish in Dec 2010) at Trident Technical College in Charleston, SC. I'm doing well in the program and need to start sorting out a plan to complete a BSN program (online), ICU experience, and any other courses that will be particularly beneficial.

I searched and found only one thread discussing a "best option" for an online BSN program (related to admission to CRNA schools). That thread only had a few responses, and the general consensus was that it basically doesn't matter as long as the school is accredited. Does anyone have any additional input or disagreement on this subject? I've heard that there are BSN programs that enable students to start taking classes during the last semester of the ADN program. If so, does anyone have any info on any of these programs?

A little about me:

I have a BS in Business Admin. from 2003 and my grades weren't that great then. I decided to pursue nursing a few years ago and began the application process and prerequisites. I've been a paramedic for several years and still work as a medic on the weekends to pay the bills during school. Consequently, I am a BLS and ACLS instructor, and also PALS and PEPP certified. I just found out that I was accepted to a summer externship in the CVICU at a local hospital. I've shadowed CRNAs and really appreciate what they do. My general plan is to (hopefully) begin working in an adult critical care unit as soon as I pass the NCLEX and complete an online BSN program as soon as possible. I would like to complete the CCRN program also around that time. Then, hopefully if everything works out as planned, I can start applying to CRNA programs (probably MUSC and Univ. of SC).

Does anyone here have any specific advice on things that I may not have thought of or need to add to the plan? On the right track or way off base? Any/all feedback would be much appreciated! -Steven

Anyone?

Excelsior College is the way to go. If you have an accredited ADN, all you have to take is 6 nusing courses online, and an online statistics course. I am currently trudging through this program myself. One of my close friends, who is already a CRNA also went through this program. If you want an accredited degree without the BS, and tons of papers to write, then this is it. Google it and see for yourself.

Thanks for the info! I actually looked into Excelsior initially for my RN, but ended up going the "brick-and-mortar" route as I heard that a lot of people don't complete it. A family member that's a CRNA suggested that I go to a physical school as well, I guess thinking it may look a little better on paper...not really sure. I have heard that there is at least one state which will not allow Excelsior RNs to practice. (Calif?)

I guess for ADN to BSN, it doesn't really matter as long as it's an accredited school? That's the general idea I'm getting from talking to people at least. I'd like to hear from people with differing opinions on the subject, so anyone that disagrees or has any other info, please speak up!

Thanks again for the reply!

Excelsior College is the way to go. If you have an accredited ADN, all you have to take is 6 nusing courses online, and an online statistics course. I am currently trudging through this program myself. One of my close friends, who is already a CRNA also went through this program. If you want an accredited degree without the BS, and tons of papers to write, then this is it. Google it and see for yourself.

Hi, I'm getting my ADN from an accredited college this spring and am thinking about doing an online RN-BSN program. I was wondering if you still recommend Excelsior College for an aspiring CRNA? Also, which CRNA program is your friend in? Thanks for any input.

Try ASU or University of Texas Arlington- Traditional brick and mortar schools with online RN-BSN programs that are accredited by the CCNE.

Actually, it has been awhile since I have posted. I actually went to Grand Canyon University. it is a brick and mortar type university and is quite easy. they are ccne as well as two other regional accreditations. the classes are only 5 weeks in length and it gives you the undergrad requirements of pathos, research, and statistics. The only thing left afterwards is the chem runs and certifications. I was able to complete my bsn in 11 months, and have discussed this with approximately10 different crna admissions boards.all have been accepting of the program due to the accreditation. That is the key. They are approximately225-250 pet credit hour. Much cheaper than any other university I found. Plus the papers only run 1000-1250 words in length. Easy and double while still maintaining a life. Just my 2 cents.

Try CSU Dominguez Hills for RN to BSN online as well. I am in a top ranked program and had more than one offer. What is important is that you go to a school that is either NLN or CCNE accredited. Brick and mortar or online does not matter so much.

I went to excelsior for my lpn-rn, and have had no problem. I am just finishing a online rn-bsn program thru univ of wyoming, 130 bucks a credit, and it's been around a long time. All accredited. also very doable, and they used to allow you to start before you had your license in hand as long as you had graduated from rn school i believe, at least that 's how it was when i started. good luck!