Finally done with pre-reqs! Have some questions...

[dalsor]

Hey all! I was wondering if anyone could help me with some questions I had. I just finished my last batch of pre-reqs(AP2 and Micro) and managed to pull A's in pretty much all of my pre-reqs(AP1, AP2, Micro, Chem, Dev Psych, nutrition, and whatever others) I graduated from UCR last year with a BA in anthropology with a pretty low gpa(3.189). Over the past year, I moved back home and took Chem, AP 1&2, Dev Psych, and Micro. I was lucky in that the community college in the area didn't have many students, also a few lucky waitlist push ups helped me.

So considering this, I am ready to start applying to nursing programs. I am torn between applying for ADN programs vs Accelerated BSN programs. ADN programs on the one hand are a lot cheaper, and I hear that they have a better chance at being hired for new grad programs? But then again, I want to make sure my previous bachelors is put to good use somehow, and admission to an Accelerated BSN program would be great. However, I am slightly wary since my undergraduate GPA wasn't so stellar, and since ADN programs are so competitive and many now lottery based, I am nervous as to whether I will be accepted anywhere. I also have seen some entry level MSN programs, but there are MSN clinical nurse and MSN NP, and I would have to take the GRE's.

One of the major things that makes this so confusing is the wide variety of application deadlines, and different pre-requisites for the different nursing schools. I tried to get all of the major pre-requisites done and I hope to apply soon, but I know a lot of schools application deadlines have passed. Does anyone know where I can find a list of accelerated BSN and ADN programs by different state? I am willing to move wherever need be. Also, does anyone know any programs that concentrate more on the grades of the pre-requisites taken? Again, I feel like my undergraduate GPA might be a huge hinderance.

Sorry for the jumbled nature of this post, I'm just having a mental overload(Just took my cumulative AP2 final yesterday). I have a lot more questions, I just can't remember them all.

[caliotter3]

If you are willing to go out of state, then look for lists of nursing programs on the state nursing board websites. Or just do an internet search. You will have to investigate further to find out specific information. As for the local programs, I would apply to all of them, of course, starting with the ones whose deadlines have not passed. You can catch up with the others when their next application period rolls around, if you have not been accepted to a program before then.

[thatsthekeyRNC]

I agree that you should apply to every school you've researched and liked whether they are ADN or BSN. Since you already have a bachelors degree, it is probably better to go for the ABSN, but I'd still apply to ADN programs just in case because you'll have more options!

[RhodyGirl, RN]

Congrats on finishing your prereqs! If I were you, I'd go for the accelerated BSN (or even apply to other regular BSN programs if you can). I don't know how the job market is in your area, but here in the northeast, BSN grads are getting what little jobs are available over the ADN's. This is not to say that an ADN is a poor choice, but you will likely have more options with a BSN.

For instance, many of the nursing internships that I've applied for (received an offer on two, and have a second interview for the third job next week!) require enrollment in an accredited BSN program.

Just some food for thought -- ultimately, you need to make the choice that's right for you. Good luck!!

[dream& achieve]

If my school offered the acce;eratd course, I'd take it.However, it doesnt, , so take a chance! you can always hedge yoru bets and apply for both types of programs. My school has no rhyme or reason in regards to who they pick...some nursing candidates/students have GPA's as low as 2.9, but have experince as an LPN, while others have a GPA of 4.0 with no experince...then there are those who applied that had a GPA of 4.0, but didnt get in, or even on the waitlist! So, take that leap, and take a chance: apply to both programs :)

[dalsor]

Thanks for the advice everyone. I just spent the last few hours going through the schools on the California State Board... A lot of the BSN/MSN programs require additional pre-reqs like biochem, and such. Looks like I may be looking at out of state, or ADN in California. Haha, I have a notebook dedicated to nursing schools with their application dates and relevant info, and it's filling up pretty darn fast.