ASN w/little debt or BSN lots of debt?

U.S.A. Georgia

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I have all of my pre-reqs complete, as well as an Associates degree in Business. As of today, I have about $15,000 in school loan debt. I have been accepted to 2 nursing schools. 1 of them is a 2 year ASN program the other is a 2 year PRIVATE SCHOOL BSN program. If I choose the ASN program, I will have very little, if any at all, additional debt. With the private school, I will accumulate approximately $35,000 more debt in tuition alone....to equal approximately $50,000 in student loans.

Let me add - I will be 42 when I graduate with either program. I have 1 child in college now, and have 2 more to put through college. Of course, the BSN makes more sense on a time table, but I am worried that at 42, I will have a rough time paying back those loans and enjoying the benefit of my education.(paycheck)

Any suggestions? Input? Direction?

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Why are you not considering a public college or university for a BSN?

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I live in a pretty rural area. The closest public college with a BSN is at least 45 miles away.

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Unless you think you will have difficulty getting a job with only an ASN I would go to the community college. You can then get your BSN online, many state schools have programs.

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I am in the same kind of situation. I have student loans from my business degree and my oldest will be starting college this year. I decided to go with the associate degree so that I don't have to add to my loan debt and after I graduate and get a job I will bridge to my BSN. This was the best decision for my family and current situation.

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Unless you think you will have difficulty getting a job with only an ASN I would go to the community college. You can then get your BSN online, many state schools have programs.

Since you live so far away from a public school, I agree with sadiemae. However, if there won't be many employment opportunities in your rural area with an ADN, it might be worth it to drive the 45 miles. 35,000 extra in debt for the private program could prove a mistake, since even people with BSNs are having a hard time finding employment.

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And one more thing: no matter where you decide to go, make sure the program has approval from your BON, look at the NCLEX pass rate, and make sure it's accredited (ACEN or CCNE).

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The debt isn't necessary so if possible I would avoid it. However, it's more important to know the reputation of the school as far as nclex pass rate, retention rate (just to have an idea), and definitely if any healthcare facilities in your area hire grads from the school. You should also look into the cost to do a bridge program. The time line won't be significantly more but you will save a lot more. If your open to share the schools you are considering we may be able to give more feedback. I'm sure you'll make the best decision.

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I am an older student with 4 kids myself, I am going the as way then once I am working I will do a Rn to BSN program, I need to get working and keep my cost down.

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Thanks to everyone. Y'all pretty much confirmed what I already thought. I am going to check the accreditation of the ASN program. I know it's a new program, so it may not have everything I would need to pursue a bridge program. Also, I emailed the BSN programs financial aid. They're going to let me know of any scholarships/grants I may be eligible for top help reduce my costs.

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Thanks for that info. Great to know. Piedmont has the best 4 year average of pass rates on the nclex. That stands for something

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