[LnDNurse2Be]

Okie2,

which CC are you going to?

I'm going to OSU-OKC. they have a great NCLEX pass rate.

actually SWOSU is one of the top 3 schools in the nation for their RN program. but I can't afford to drive to weatherford LOL.

Ang

[dettwiller5]

I too already have a BS n another field (Health Education) and do not have much of a choice in whether to pursue an ADN a BSN. I have 3 young children and decided to go the ADN route at a local medical center because they have an excellent reputaion and they have an evening/weekend division that is perfect for me and my family. I am getting a Stafford loan for the first half of the program and the second half will be paid for by the hospital in exchange for my working for them for 1 year. I thought it was a great deal! I wont have to look for my first job and I'll get plenty of experience also! I am planning to get my BSN through a bridge program that they have with a university in the area after I get my RN liscence but that ust because I love school (I'm weird like that), not because I think that having a BSN is more prestigious. The important thing is getting my RN !

[bmw804]

Originally Posted by okie2

SORRY - i have to rant about this. I don't want to start a fight- and I'm not going to generalize about all BSN or ADN programs. They have to be evaluated individually on their own merits but....... The constant arguement over ADN vs BSN is driving me crazy!!!! People act like I've really got a choice- like I can just walk out and "get" either one. ya right.
I am a 36yo pre-nursing student at a CC (in greater OKC metro). I have a previous BS in a science. I still have pre-reqs to do and support course to finish just to be competitive. & believe me- competition is HIGH- even for the lowly ADN Last semester there were 300 applicants for 50 spots. I have loved all my instructors, been impressed with the level of instruction, and feel prepared.
I have never seen an ad for a job that said "ADN need not apply"- all they ask for is the RN current license- yes, I understand that the BSN may be needed to go into higher mangement etc.
NOW, why I'm not doing the BSN. Here in OKC we have a few BSN programs at state & private universities, and even a few BS to BSN accelerated. The tuition ranges from $20,000 to over $50,000. Having loans from a previous degree & a husband that makes a good salary- I don't qualify for financial aid. SO....if anyone expects me to get that degree- hand over the $$$$$$, please. Also, the BSN programs don't accept many students- the smaller universities have only 20-50/ year and the larger major university accepts around 120/year. &That particular program had over 700 applicants last year!!!! YA I can just walk in and "get" my BSN- hahahahah
BTW- compare NCLEX pass rates
major university- 83% my CC - 87%
university#2 - 57% cc#2 - 87%
university #3 - 50% cc#3 - 82%
now, tell me- would I really want to go to a program that only 50% passed?? what good is a BSN if I can't pass boards? I realize there are many factors to it, but come on....50%!
Let me give you an eye opening fact---if OKC (local metro areas) went to "all BSN" this year and did away with ADN--they would lose 248 new nurses! (that's how many passed boards from 3 major ccs last year) WOW- you think we're short on nurses now- try cutting out all those new grads.
I'm just frustrated with the whole discussion. Like I've said, people act like all of us have EVERY option available, or that we can afford it, or that these programs are just waiting for me to come and "get" my degree.
At least around here- all the ADN/ASD are very professional, highly technical, and very competitive. There are no "waiting lists". You have to apply every semester, meet basic requirements, then compete with GPA, preference points, etc. NONE of them simply put you on a list for meeting the requirements.
It may be different in your neck of the woods, but that how it sits here.
Everyone has to make their own choice, evaluate their own needs and the programs available. I'm done- I feel better - thanks for listening

Wow this thread has confused me even more than before. I don't think I have much of an option when deciding which route to take. If I apply for the ADN I have to take Microbiology over and chem II mine are over 7 years old along with nutrition. I applied to a private university and was accepted right away. I still have to take A&P II and nutrition. I was planning to take them together with my two nursing courses this August.

The problem is the university is so expensive. I will have this year paid for, but that is it. I don't know how I am going to afford to go for the next year and a half. We have a program WIA that will pay for you to go to school, but its only for like vocational schools and the community college. I am going to find out if they will pay for a private school.

The community college has a one year waiting list and I don't want to wait that long. It seems the accelerated programs do not have a waiting list, but right now I cannot afford the private schools. It really doesn't matter which route I take ADN or BSN. I just want to be able to get started and right now that has been with the more expensive university.

Another option I had was to complete the LPN which doesn't start until January and then bridge over to the BSN or ADN and perhaps I could get tuition reimbursement for that school. It is so difficult, but I must have patience.

[foxfire65]

Originally Posted by okie2

SORRY - i have to rant about this. I don't want to start a fight- and I'm not going to generalize about all BSN or ADN programs. They have to be evaluated individually on their own merits but....... The constant arguement over ADN vs BSN is driving me crazy!!!! People act like I've really got a choice- like I can just walk out and "get" either one. ya right.
I am a 36yo pre-nursing student at a CC (in greater OKC metro). I have a previous BS in a science. I still have pre-reqs to do and support course to finish just to be competitive. & believe me- competition is HIGH- even for the lowly ADN Last semester there were 300 applicants for 50 spots. I have loved all my instructors, been impressed with the level of instruction, and feel prepared.
I have never seen an ad for a job that said "ADN need not apply"- all they ask for is the RN current license- yes, I understand that the BSN may be needed to go into higher mangement etc.
NOW, why I'm not doing the BSN. Here in OKC we have a few BSN programs at state & private universities, and even a few BS to BSN accelerated. The tuition ranges from $20,000 to over $50,000. Having loans from a previous degree & a husband that makes a good salary- I don't qualify for financial aid. SO....if anyone expects me to get that degree- hand over the $$$$$$, please. Also, the BSN programs don't accept many students- the smaller universities have only 20-50/ year and the larger major university accepts around 120/year. &That particular program had over 700 applicants last year!!!! YA I can just walk in and "get" my BSN- hahahahah
BTW- compare NCLEX pass rates
major university- 83% my CC - 87%
university#2 - 57% cc#2 - 87%
university #3 - 50% cc#3 - 82%
now, tell me- would I really want to go to a program that only 50% passed?? what good is a BSN if I can't pass boards? I realize there are many factors to it, but come on....50%!
Let me give you an eye opening fact---if OKC (local metro areas) went to "all BSN" this year and did away with ADN--they would lose 248 new nurses! (that's how many passed boards from 3 major ccs last year) WOW- you think we're short on nurses now- try cutting out all those new grads.
I'm just frustrated with the whole discussion. Like I've said, people act like all of us have EVERY option available, or that we can afford it, or that these programs are just waiting for me to come and "get" my degree.
At least around here- all the ADN/ASD are very professional, highly technical, and very competitive. There are no "waiting lists". You have to apply every semester, meet basic requirements, then compete with GPA, preference points, etc. NONE of them simply put you on a list for meeting the requirements.
It may be different in your neck of the woods, but that how it sits here.
Everyone has to make their own choice, evaluate their own needs and the programs available. I'm done- I feel better - thanks for listening

I have never heard a four year student complain about someone getting their two year degree ever. It seems like the ones who argue about which one is better are the two year degree students. I personally think you ought to just do what you can afford to do, and don't worry about anyone else or their input. It's your time and money, no one elses. I am in a CC myself and applied to Eastern Michigan U, and was accepted. I am almost complete with my pre req's for the CC's nursing program. After the summer I could apply for the Winter semester nursing classes. However, I found there is a scholarship for transfer students, there is also a grant from the state of Michigan and my financial aid package. The univeristy is affordable and obtainable. That is my personal choice and I am the one who lives with that decision, no one else. So good luck in whatever you choose. People probably say that to you because you already hold a Bachelor's degree. I am excited about attending the University. It something I have always wanted to do and could not until now. I will be 40 in Sept., so to me it is a great accomplishment. Just stay focused on your goals and your studies. You are the only one who has to live with your own decisions. I am sure you will succeed in either program.

[christvs]

Originally Posted by CeCiRN

I hear ya!!! The college I got my ADN at has been around since 1971 and they have a reputation of 100% passing rate on NCLEX while the BSN program across town has an 82% passing rate on NCLEX. Makes you wonder where the people who want the BSN nurse to be entry level RN have their brains stashed!!!!!!!!!! Actually I think we really know where their brains are stashed but I don't really want to be rude!!!

Sure, there is a difference in the ADN program and BSN program where you live, but I do not think it is fair for anyone to just make an over-generalization about who is a better entry level nurse-ADN vs. BSN (I'm not saying you are saying that-I'm just saying in general). I think it is MOST important to look at each individual nurse and assess his/her abilities. For instance, I'm a BSN graduate (last month) and graduated with a 3.97 overall GPA and have 3 years experience as a CNA and believe I'm very qualified to start as a new grad (I take NCLEX next week). But I'm also slightly older than the traditional aged BSN student, and I have a master's degree in biology-got it before I started nursing school . I'm 28 now-not 22 like most others who were with me in the program. And I know most (not all) ADN students are also older than traditional college age-I think THAT plays at least somewhat of a major role in how hard someone works at school, is serious about school, does well on NCLEX, etc. Anyhow-my point is I don't look down on anyone-a nurse is a nurse to me whether they are ADN, BSN, or whatever! I think everyone should decide which program best suits their needs and also people from one type of program should not look down on those in the other type. Also, I feel quite comfortable with a lot of clinical skills and not just theory-in my internship in my last semester of school I had sooooo many opportunities to change and hang IV bags, give IV pushes, work with IV pumps in general, give insulin, check blood sugars, interact with PT/OT/social workers/dieticians/MDs, put in foleys, take out foleys, change dressings, do assessments, tube feedings, give IMs and SCs, read orders, do patient discharge teaching, interpret lab results, etc. I just put a lot into my clinical and really felt I got a lot out of it! So again, if you are from an ADN program please, please do not just assume that all BSN grads are the same and the same goes for BSN grads who should not assume ADN grads are the same either!
-Christine

[foxfire65]

Originally Posted by christvs

Sure, there is a difference in the ADN program and BSN program where you live, but I do not think it is fair for anyone to just make an over-generalization about who is a better entry level nurse-ADN vs. BSN (I'm not saying you are saying that-I'm just saying in general). I think it is MOST important to look at each individual nurse and assess his/her abilities. For instance, I'm a BSN graduate (last month) and graduated with a 3.97 overall GPA and have 3 years experience as a CNA and believe I'm very qualified to start as a new grad (I take NCLEX next week). But I'm also slightly older than the traditional aged BSN student, and I have a master's degree in biology-got it before I started nursing school . I'm 28 now-not 22 like most others who were with me in the program. And I know most (not all) ADN students are also older than traditional college age-I think THAT plays at least somewhat of a major role in how hard someone works at school, is serious about school, does well on NCLEX, etc. Anyhow-my point is I don't look down on anyone-a nurse is a nurse to me whether they are ADN, BSN, or whatever! I think everyone should decide which program best suits their needs and also people from one type of program should not look down on those in the other type.
-Christine

I agree with you. I am almost 40, have had 15 years experience as a nurse assistant and I know what I am getting into. There is one fact, the more educated you are, the better the jobs become. I have never heard it is better to only obtain your two year degree than anything further. That is absurd. Some people just want to get their nursing degree the quickest and cheapest way possible. That is fine for them. I even read one post from Fun2care that everyone should have to get their ADN first. That is ridiculous! There is no crime in wanting to at least get your BSN. Nor is there a crime in getting the two year degree. School is hard, and expensive. Each person makes their own road.

[Marie_LPN]

I think everyone should decide which program best suits their needs and also people from one type of program should not look down on those in the other type.

I completely agree!

[carolinapooh]

Originally Posted by bmw804

Wow this thread has confused me even more than before. I don't think I have much of an option when deciding which route to take. If I apply for the ADN I have to take Microbiology over and chem II mine are over 7 years old along with nutrition. I applied to a private university and was accepted right away. I still have to take A&P II and nutrition. I was planning to take them together with my two nursing courses this August.

The problem is the university is so expensive. I will have this year paid for, but that is it. I don't know how I am going to afford to go for the next year and a half. We have a program WIA that will pay for you to go to school, but its only for like vocational schools and the community college. I am going to find out if they will pay for a private school.

The community college has a one year waiting list and I don't want to wait that long. It seems the accelerated programs do not have a waiting list, but right now I cannot afford the private schools. It really doesn't matter which route I take ADN or BSN. I just want to be able to get started and right now that has been with the more expensive university.

Another option I had was to complete the LPN which doesn't start until January and then bridge over to the BSN or ADN and perhaps I could get tuition reimbursement for that school. It is so difficult, but I must have patience.

Federal student loans. They happen to the best of us.

[okie2]

[quote=LnDNurse2Be]Okie2,

which CC are you going to?

I'm going to OSU-OKC. they have a great NCLEX pass rate.

actually SWOSU is one of the top 3 schools in the nation for their RN program. but I can't afford to drive to weatherford LOL.





HI- I'm going to OKCCC. It was a toss up between osu-okc and okccc, both have great reputations, programs, and pass rates. BUT more of my previous classes transferred (even though my BS is from OSU-stillwater???) and I had more choices in courses and times. Scheduling worked out better for the family. I've had great instructors so far, and like the people. We have a real diverse group- many different ages, backgrounds etc. Lots of non-traditional students like me

Like I said, I didn't mean to start a fight. I've been frustrated lately due to people saying things like "why aren't you going to OU--you're so smart?" OR "you're JUST earning the RN? You're smarter than that" AAARRRGGG! I feel like I automatically have to defend my choice to people. The other day- after I made 100% on an exam, a friend said, "of course you did, it's just community college"----OMG!!!! I studied my booty off, they don't realize how challenging classes are!
I looked at both degrees and chose this path for many reasons; money, schedule, competition, campus environment etc.
Each person has to evaluate their needs and the programs available.

GOOD Luck!

[LMTtoRN?]

It used to happen to me when I was in massage school, too. This program is better than that one because blah, blah, blah. I've met MTs from many programs who were exellent therapists, and some who didn't know their ischial tuberosity from their epicondyles (lateral OR medial).

It's what you make of your program, what you put into it, and what you get out of it that matters. Many decisions today are made because of financial considerations (I know most of mine were), but that doesn't mean that you won't come out of whatever program you participated in as an excellent nurse. Folks make statements based on what THEY believe. If you are smart, you'll do well regardless of your program.

I'm enrolled in a CC with a goal of ADN, but I do plan to go on for my BSN once I'm working. Money, money, money... it drives us all crazy!!