Need Advice on choosing a nursing program!

[Colljt]

So, i am in the process of looking at nursing programs because i have recently decided on going back to school for something completely different.

I have a BA in English, and look forward to apply to nursing school, but i am having trouble learning about the different programs. I know i have two options, but i dont know which is wisest option and i was hoping that some nurses/nursing students would have some advice.

Since i already have a BA i can apply as a second degree student and get a BSN OR i can apply to a direct entry program which alot of schools (but not all) have. This program is about 3 years and give you your master sif you have an unrelated bachelors degree.

Which is the smarter option? i know that once i go back to scholl AGAIN, i might not want to go again to get a masters, so doing it in one shot sounds good. However, when you get your masters, dont you become an advanced practice nurse? if so, how does this differ from an RN?

Basically what does getting a masters do to my desire to be a nurse? will it change the scope of the career alot?

any advice would we awesome!!

Thanks!

Colleen

[CaLLaCoDe, BSN, RN]

My only concern would be that you may get a small amount of clinical experience and not enough to know what's going on in the real world of nursing...good luck. I myself have an AS and don't feel any need at this time to get a BA or MA...I like the affordability of the AS degree and find that my peers don't treat me any differently!

[jamonit]

i was in your shoes, in a sense. i have a bachelor's of arts in psychology and anthropology....worked for a while but realized my liberal arts degree didn't necessarily open the doors for the careers i was interested in.

a lot of people will recommend you go back to a bsn program, and i think that is smart....but i myself am completing an adn program and i have absolutely no regrets that it was the best program for me. seemed like less red tape, less waiting list time, etc. what i think is that an RN is an RN, that we all learn the technical and holistic skills, assessment, communication and more (if you get into a good program). you can work and make good money with an ADN, and then many hospitals will pay to continue your education...for instance, the hospital that just hired me gives $5000 a year(?) for BSN on the hospital grounds (it takes just 14-18 months) and it's covered. then they will pay for education, like a certain allowance if you decide to get a masters (to work as a nurse practitioner, management, whatever). so most hospitals want to grow and groom you (and most of it will end up on their tab). so i don't know if that helps, but just know that you can take a fast-track associate's nursing program (even with your 4 year degree) and get a great start in the profession, then they will help to pay tuition and support your educational growth--during the time you work for most competitive hospitals.

read into, call some schools in your area, and i think you'll find you answers.

[TazziRN, RN]

I know I replied to this thread but my post isn't there..........

Make sure, whatever you choose to do, that you choose an accredited program. Most positions require graduation from an accredited nursing program.