RN-MSN vs. RN-BSN-MSN???

allnurses Guide · Aug 22, 2009

Hi,

I graduated from a direct entry program at Boston College, but I believe they also have a pathway for RN to MSN. I'm not sure what other schools have similar programs, but I can't imagine BC is the only one in the area. Try looking at UMASS Boston, Regis, and Simmons-those were the schools that impressed me most when I was looking.

Good luck!!

allnurses Guide · Aug 22, 2009

Also, I have an RN-MSN, and it didn't seem to make a difference when I was looking for jobs.

NayNaeRN · Aug 23, 2009

Thanks!!! You know i have my heart set on BC but have heard so many different things...How did you like the program over all? Would you recommend BC??

TX RN · Aug 23, 2009

You might as well do the BSN first then look for BSN - DNP.

noble3 · Sep 2, 2009

I am in the midst of completing my RN-MSN. I did it at two different Universities and there is no big difference.

I still had to take all the classes to get the BSN, and there was nothing accelerated about it.

Jules A, MSN · Sep 4, 2009

For some reason I'm terrified of being 3 years into something having to stop and being left with nothing so I decided to grab my BSN in the meantime just to make sure I had something in my hand at the end of two years.

KDrummond · Oct 11, 2009

BC Gradnurse,

I am currently in the process of applying to Direct Entry MSN programs and BC is one of my choices. My other choices are Simmons, Regis and MGH. Any Advice? What was your schedule like for the first year?

Also, it looks as though BC's NCLEX pass rate is very high. Do you feel you were well prepared for the exam and the field? Any information is much appreciated, thank you!

allnurses Guide · Oct 11, 2009

I also applied to Simmons and MGH, but chose BC because they were the only ones who accepted my CLEP exams for two of the pre-reqs (intro bio and chem). MGH and Simmons wanted me to take those courses over, despite the fact that I had passed a nationally recognized exam in lieu of re-taking the courses. BC also "felt right" to me. I liked the atmosphere, I liked being on a real campus, I liked BC's strong reputation, and I loved the fact that I could park right on campus and didn't have to deal with public transportation. Simmons was my second choice, with MGH third. Regis didn't have a DE program when I was applying.

My entire class passed NCLEX on the first try, so I guess we were well prepared. It didn't feel that way at the time, but everyone says that! I also think I was well prepared to work as an NP. I was fortunate to have wonderful clinical preceptors at great sites, and I did more clinical hours than were required. There's no way you can learn everything, but we were taught to think critically, so I know where to get info and how to rationally think through a patient's signs and symptoms.

My first year was busy. Essentially, I had 4 full days of classes and clinicals, with one day off. Be prepared to spend almost all of your time going to class and studying. There's not a lot of time for fun. However, it was worth it to me. Let me know if you have other questions. Feel free to PM me. Good luck with your applications.

KDrummond · Oct 12, 2009

Thank you BCGradnurse!

I think I may not be able to apply to BC because I have yet to take the GRE's. I am registered to take them 11/17 and the deadline is 11/1. I am calling them Tuesday to see if they accept with contigencies, but based on the website, I don't think they do:( Thanks again!!

kanzi monkey · Oct 12, 2009

Northeastern also has a direct entry RN-MSN program.

butch228 · Oct 13, 2009

Hi there,

I'm a grad from MGH IHP RN-MSN track. I had a BA in a non-nursing field, then I went back to school (community college) to get met my ADN degree. I thought about getting BSN but I wanted the least expensive route to get my nursing degree and I have no regrets! I think most Boston schools have RN-MSN tracks but they seem to promote BSN or direct entry programs more.