CNA to LPN to RN to BSN....

Nursing Students Pre-Nursing

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This is he only path I see. I have a BGS that has 3 years of STEM courses so I have all but 6 prerequisites out of the way and all gen ed courses done. I thought the accelerated BSN programs would be perfect BUT I can't finance them. The only one offered in my area that I qualify for is 44k over true course of 15 months. I can't afford that.

So so I researched my butt off and thre only other org I see that is affordable is a long one. I'd do the CNA this winter. Then apply to LPN school for fall. Of course the LPN requires the CNA. Then after that apply to the RN program the following fall, which of course requires the LPN (at this school anyway). And eventually apply to the RN to BSN which is still incredibly expensive but spread out over 3 years instead of 15 months is more feasible. It also seems that the RN to MSN takes the same length of time.

Anyway, I just feel like there has to be a shorter route. This is insane to me, especially coming in with a bachelors already. That's 5 years!!

I live in Omaha also so the schools are Methodist, Clarkson, metro and unmc. Unmc is one I cannot get into and won't even apply to though.

Do do you know of or see any shorter paths? I'm 32 with 3 kids. If I could afford the accelrated program I'd be all over it but it's just not gonna happen.

Thanks in advance for any advice.

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So, you either can pay 44k for accelerated BSN and be done in 15 months, or spend years getting your CNA, then LPN, then RN, and then BSN that will cost you even more. I'd say just do an accelerated BSN. I am sure you may be eligible for some state aid, and some loans. This way you will save much more if you pay for all other programs like LPN, RN, and then BSN. Besides, I do not see any value in getting LPN. Unless, after getting LPN you will find a job, so this way you could finance your RN, and then, getting an RN job, financing your BSN. So, ultimately, it is your own decision.

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I agree with what the poster above me stated. Both programs are expensive but the accelerated is completed in almost 1/3 of the time. That mean you get to start working as an RN and making money two years faster than the other route. You can pay off your loans faster this way and accrue less interest which saves you money in the long run. You stated you already have a Bachelors degree, having to go through the long process of CNA, LPN, ASN then BSN seems like a waste. The CNA cert, LPN and ASN is a waste of time and money if you plan on going directly into the BSN program without working first.

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Specializes in NICU, RNC.

It looks like Metropolitan Community College might be a good option for you! Here is their list of courses to complete your associates degree in nursing (link below) It does have you do all the LPN classes the first year, and then more advanced ADN classes the 2nd year, but most ADN programs are 2 years anyway, so it's no different than most standard programs, it's just that you earn your LPN along the way. AND, if you look at the schedule, many of those classes included are pre-reqs for many schools, which makes it even more appealing.

I do not see CNA listed as a pre-req for the program either, so it's essentially the same as most ADN programs nationwide. And the tuition is only $59 per credit, so around $6000 for the entire program! With scholarships and financial aid, you have the potential for a free education. I don't know how impacted the program is, so there might be a long wait list. But it seems like it might be worth the wait for the price.

Metropolitan Community College - Nursing Suggested Curriculum Plan

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There is no way to pay that in that short of time. I'm not sure if I have any fin aid left but if I do it's less then 10k but I think when I consolidated my loans it ate up whatever eligibility I had left. So that will all come out of pocket. Trust me I'd love tod o the ABSN. I just can't come up with the money.

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That's what I am planning currently. They do say in their application you have to have a current CNA and CPR.

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Specializes in mental health / psychiatic nursing.

Have you considered going to community college for an ASN or going to a traditional BSN program? The latter would likely take only 2 years since you have pre-req and general ed courses done and just need the nursing coursework.

In my area an ASN is about 10K (over 2 years) and a BSN at the state university about 22K (over 2 years), both much more affordable options than the price you quoted for the ABSN program you looked at. Also the more traditional pace may make it possible for you to still work part-time while in school and cover some of your expenses.

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There are no ASN programs in your area? It's what I had to do as my second degree (I have a BA) so I could finance it, and the total cost of the program with everything, books, fees, uniforms, licensing fees is $10k

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