[Ventjock]

I wish there were an accelerated BRIDGE BSN for paramedics and respiratory therapists already holding a BA or BS degree....

[smf5083]

Thanks you all for your advice. I think I'm leaning towards an accelerated BSN school (maybe Pitt?) after I finish out my BS undergrad. My advisors have told me that most of my credits won't be accepted by the PSU nursing school, and that it would be a ridiculous switch since I have too many upper-level classes on my transcript already (yes, as a sophomore I already have some upper-levels). Then I guess I'll work my 1 year as an RN, apply for NA schools, and go from there. Here's how I've calculated it out (feel free to point out discrepencies in my timing): I'll graduate with my BS in neurobiology at age 22, spend 3 terms (avg) in an accelerated BSN program and take the exam for my RN - now we're at age 23.5 - 24, work for 1 year before applying (age 24.5-25), spend two years in NA school (assuming acception) - leaving me at my desired career at age 27. That's still three years shorter than going to medical school to become an anesthesiologist, nowhere near the debt incurred due to tuition (and malpractice insurance, no doubt), and would allow me to have a family life.
Which brings me to why I am choosing this career. It seems that some of you think that I haven't researched this career as a CRNA, but that is far from the facts. I have been researching this career for the past few years, and at first I was focused on an MD. However, after comparing the pro's and con's I've decided that and MD is not what I really wanted...I want to have more of a family life (I'm getting married in May, yes...this May), I don't want the financial burden of medical school, or the overwhelming hours that an MD has.
So say I'm successful at the accelerated BSN program. What are some great areas to practice in as an RN (especially considering that I want to apply as soon as I can to NA school)? You guys have been amazing at responding with such great advice. Thanks to all of you!

-Shaun

[Just a CRNA]

Originally Posted by smf5083

Hello guys,
I'm currently a sophomore undergrad studying neurobiology and neuropsychology. I want to finish out my undergraduate BS in biology, but I really want to pursue a career as a CRNA. All of the direct entry programs that I've found (not many) for non-nursing majors STILL require that the applicant be an RN. How would I accomplish my RN licensing with my biology BS and continue on to become a CRNA? And how long would all of this take? At least, that's the path of least resistance that I've been able to find. If anyone has any better avenues to take me from my BS in biology at Penn State University to my career as a CRNA, please inform me! I've discussed possible options with advisors, but few have any ideas for me. Thank you guys for all of your help!

Sincerely,
Shaun

http://www.nursing.tcu.edu/accelerated.asp

[smf5083]

you are now my favorite person. thank you so much!

[TangoLima]

I was 2 semesters away from a BS in Computer Science when I switched majors. I have been going to school since 1998, and I am 33 years old. I am finally graduating this May with a BSN and am also interested in CRNA. Talk about taking the long route!

As a sophomore, the time you have put toward your current degree is negligible at best. If you really want to pursue CRNA, you should switch tracks now and get your BSN. There is nothing wrong with this. Students do it all the time.

As some of the other posters mentioned, you must really want to be a NURSE first and a CRNA second. You must decide if this is really what you want. Nursing school is not a joke, and the job is not glamorous. So, take some time, shadow a nurse, shadow a CRNA, talk to nursing students about what nursing school is really like.

Good luck to you.

[porkchop83]

just wanted to mention that i am in TCU's accelerated program. it is a GREAT program if you're interested in getting your BSN in 15 months. feel free to ask me anything regarding it. oh, and they have a CRNA program too

good luck!

[MB37]

There are tons of accelerated programs out there if your mind is set on finishing your current degree - I'm in one at USF in Tampa at the moment. I believe that more education never hurt anyone, so if you want and can afford to finish your current program first, knock yourself out. Do be aware that ABSN programs are much more time-intensive than regular ones, so you won't see much of your wife once you start - I'm married, and it's a little tough on my husband. Then he knows we get to do it all over again with an even tougher program once I do get accepted into a CRNA program. So you're in PA now? Is Texas somewhere you and your wife would be willing to move? You don't have to, there are tons of ABSN programs out there. Go to the websites of all the major universities in areas you would consider living, go to the nursing programs' websites, and see what they have to offfer! Good luck to you!