Need advice on whether to choose ASN or BSN

[cclem1]

Hi,

I really need some advice. I just don't know what the best thing to do it. I have a BS in biology and definitely want to get into nursing. I have two children under three and really prefer an evening nursing program. The options that I am aware of are community colleges and Regis College. I actually have already been accepted to Regis for next fall, but with one major caveat.. a $65,000 price tag for just the BSN, but with the option to continue through the NP program there (which would be like $100,000). Ultimately, I would like to be an NP.

So, thats my question, do I do the Regis program being as expensive as it is, or do I get an ASN for less than $20,000?? I know there are abundant opportunities to get the BSN once you are an RN and even get into a master's program with a BS in another field and an RN. I worry that I won't get accepted into the associate programs, but at the other end of the spectrum, I worry that if I go to Regis, I'll have trouble finding a job in MA and have this outrageous loan to pay back.

Thanks for taking the time to read my post!! I appreciate any advice at all!!!!!

[A_Simp]

A_Simp,

Thanks for your response. I am in a very similar boat as you. My kids are 2.5 yrs and 7 months. Are you happy with the route that you chose? How was the Lawrence Memorial program? Are you planning on following through at Regis?

Thanks again!

I am very happy with the route that I choose. I took all my gen ed and pre-req at a local community college and found the LM program easier on the schedule.

They admit student twice a year (Sept & Jan) and their semesters follow other colleges even for the eve/weekend division. Some schools have you going throughout the year, which I found hard with my kids schedules and summers.

It cost a bit more than a community college but less than other private colleges. I think it was about $16,000.

I do plan on going back but now I feel like I have more options such as a RN to BSN program and with my other degree I can't image what additional gen ed courses I would need. At least it's not english again!

I wanted to take a semester off and look around at different programs and especially, since I just stared working as an RN and am still on orientation. I would like to get that under my belt.

If you do decide to get into a BS to MSN program than I would suggest you really look at the time commitment. The classmates in my program, who had kids agreed it was hard enough doing what we did in 2 yrs never mind what the accellerated programs required.

Let me know if you need any other info.

[HappyPediRN]

At this rate you won't get hired without the BSN. Too many new grads competing for very few open slots.

[cclem1]

OctoberBride,

I've read your posts regarding having a really difficult time finding a job. It was all those posts that have really made me concerned about taking on such a huge debt after graduation in the first place.. if I can't find a good job. I know that if I have the ASN, I'll have little or no debt at all and someone will hire me eventually.. even in subacute or LTC. This is why I'm so torn about what to do. It's a tough decision. Can I ask where you went to school?