ASN with a B.S. in Biology....ASN to MSN?

Nursing Students Post Graduate

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This question is definitely jumping the gun with where I am at now, but it's a pretty unique, confusing situation.

I received my B.S. in Biology and have now switched tracks and am deciding to get an RN. Right now....due to practicality/cost I am applying for ASN programs. On the off chance I don't get in, I will still be completing some pre-reqs to possible get into an ABSN or second degree program down the road.

My big question...If I were to get an ASN, are there many programs that will let you jump from an ASN to MSN because you already have a B.S in another field? I know Duke offers that as an option (http://nursing.duke.edu/academics/programs/msn/admission-requirements).

So to me, getting an ASN and going to an MSN seems like a great idea, but does anyone know if there are many other programs that have similar admissions requirements? If Duke is the only option I guess that lowers the practicality.

Anyway...thoughts, ideas, advice?

Thank You!

John

Specializes in PCU, LTAC, Corrections.

I am also a second degree student. I decided against an ASN and have applied to a direct-entry CNL program. That is what works for me.

Your idea is not a bad one. Just make sure that ASN prepared nurses are readily employed in your area.

I have attached a list of RN-MSN programs. Good luck.

RN to MSN Degree Programs by State

I have a BS in Biology and got a ADN. I am in a ADN-MSN program right now that ladders you to BSN and then you continue on with your MSN. There are a ton of programs out there that offer a MSN if you have an ADN and a bachelor degree; it is meant to address nurses who are entering the field as a second career.

Specializes in Nurse-Midwife.

Far more graduate schools will recognize your Bachelor of Science degree than will potential employers.

I am in your boat - a Bachelor's of Science, Associate's degree in nursing.

Because I don't have a BSN, I'm not as employable at local hospitals as the BSN grads are. My Bachelors (in Biology, too!) is null. But there are many academic programs that recognize RNs with a Bachelor's degree in another field as sufficient for starting an MSN program.

For me, I could have shelled out 10x the amount of cash to get a graduate RN degree (via a Master's entry RN program), but that seemed foolish to me.

It would be nice to be recognized for my frugality and common sense (as well as my undergraduate degree!).

I think there are lots of graduate options out there. It's seeking employment without the BSN that is more difficult.

I think the best route would be to go into an entry-level master program. That way you will have a master in clinical leadership. It would be much easier to get a job than if you had an ADN degree.

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