RN-BSN or RN-MSN

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I am about to finish my RN program and am looking into my next degree. What are the advantages, disadvantages to RN-BSN and RN-MSN? Is the RN-BSN program a waste of time if I'm planning on doing the MSN eventually anyways?

Specializes in Critical Care, Capacity/Bed Management.

Look very closely into these programs as some employers demand a BSN. I myself was looking at an RN to MSN program and when I asked if I would receive a BSN along the way I was told no.

Specializes in L&D, infusion, urology.

Have you talked to HR departments in your area? It might be worth it to put together a few questions like this and call around to get a feel for the climate in your area. Some places may not care, some may, but I would have to imagine that results may vary. Hearing it from the horse's mouth is your best bet, in this case.

Specializes in Emergency, LTC.

I've spoken with an Admissions officer at UMSON because I wanted to know this as well. She advised not to get an MSN unless you plan on teaching (clinical instructor/classroom professor). She said it'd be a waste of time+money.

I personally want to be a Psych/Forensics nurse and she said a BSN should suffice. Some Charge nurses at AAMC have MSN and some have BSNs. In the working world, it's more about work ethic than credentials.

So go the RN-BSN route. Less money, and you won't be "overqualified" for an entrance position.

Thanks for your advice. Some hospitals in my area are wanting all nurses to receive their BSN to be a Magnet hospital. I've even heard of one that is wanting all MSN nurses. If the MSN is only for teaching though, I can see your point in only needing the BSN.

Okami, I will look closely into these programs. You pointed out something I had never thought of. I know some higher degrees like CRNA, require the BSN. There might be other jobs/and degrees that require the same. Thanks!

Specializes in public health, women's health, reproductive health.

There are programs that will award the BSN along the way. An MSN isn't only for teaching.

Specializes in ER.

I went RN to BSN because the RN to MSN program I want requires 1 year of experience. I can knock my BSN out in 9 months and shave about 5,000 off the cost of my entire education by going a traditional MSN route because my BSN costs so little. By then, I will have 1 year experience.

Eventually I want to become a CNM or a Women's Health NP or both. I may end up doing CNM and then FNP.

The school I looked at most recently offered the RN-BSN and RN-MSN. I viewed the RN-BSN as waste of money and time if I could spend that same amount of time doing the RN-MSN. I didn't check to see if the RN-MSN I was looking at required experience. It was more expensive. I also didn't realize doing the BSN would take off money down the road. applesxoranges, sounds like you enjoy school. ;)

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