[lectersmeal]

Hey guys,

I'll be graduating in May w/ a BS in Psychology. I've now decided that I want to get my RN. Can anyone make any suggestions as the most efficient route to take?

I've checked into some of the Accelerated BSN programs, but they're extremely intense and costly. And mostly, I wouldn't be able to work throughout that 14-months.

I've also looked into the ADN programs. Even though I'll already have a bachelors degree, would it really still take me two years to complete the ADN? It just seems like such a waste of time to spend two years on the ADN, then go back for the RN to BSN... especially when I'm interested in being a CNP.

Any advice would really be appreciated.

[Tweety]

You're best best option is the accellerated BSN program.

But to answer your question, yes if you go the ADN route, you'll have to take the two years. But this way you can more than likely still be able to work.

There also might be non-accellerated BSN programs that will take you. However, many schools don't offer this option to persons with existing degrees.

Bottom line is whatever route you go, your motivation is going to have to remain high. Good luck!

[BlaineCM]

I graduated with mt BS in psychology as well. I went the accelerated BSN route and just graduated. I would highly recommend the accelerated BSN route. It was a lot of hard work, but the pay off will be much sooner.

[GradNurseAng]

Hi! I also have a B.S. in Psychology, but went the ADN route. I decided to do the ADN route because I worked full time while going to nursing school, plus I had all the electives completed from my previous bachelor's degree. I went in two years, but at the same time it was mainly part-time. I have a lot of loan debt from my B.S, but not from nursing because of the ADN route with fewer classes....

I think it's up to the time you have available, financial reasons, etc...a BSN could always be completed later on once you get your feet wet with your ADN.

Angie, RN, BS (that SHOULD count, ha!)

[NEsoon2beRN]

Hi, I also have a BSN in another field and choose to do the ADN because the workload is less and I was working while going to school, and seeing that you want to work, the ADN would be a better route for you, it's just less stress.

[StarryNyte713]

Hi there! It seems like there are a lot of people in the same boat I graduated with a BA in Psych in 2005. After being in Social Work for a couple years and talking with many RNs, I will be going back to school for Nursing as well.

The largest potential obstacle I am finding with the Accelerated BSN has to do with Financial Aid... I have saved a lot of money the past two years, but not nearly enough to get through a BSN program, as I would have to move closer to the campus. I have heard that individuals pursuing a second Bachelor's Degree have trouble in getting adequate Federal Financial Aid. Is this true?

If I get into the local Associate's program in January (they only accept 10 students), I will most likely be going that route. I am glad to hear that people are pleased with both routes!