Have a BS Biology. Best to do ABSN or ADN?

Nursing Students Pre-Nursing

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I am a recent Bachelors of Science Biology graduate (3.65 GPA). Recently, I have decided to switch from medical school to nursing school. I am currently enrolled for the remaining pre-reqs I need to get into nursing school.

My ultimate goal is to become a CRNA, though I don't plan on applying for several years, as I want to pay off my current student loans and develop savings before starting any more schooling.

I am currently deciding between an Accelerated BSN program (the only ABSN program in the state) and an ADN program. The BSN program is only 12 months, but it is fairly expensive. However, the school has decided to wait to have another entering class until January of 2016. Which I could try to find a job, and pay off some of my loans during that time.

That being said, I could apply for the ADN program (24 month program) that will start in May 2015. And I would only be part time (because I already have half of the courses in their curriculum completed.) So I could have a job during school, and pay for the schooling without taking out any more loans. The schooling would be cheaper, and I would save several thousand dollars by going this route.

Because of the student loan debt I have already accrued, the ADN program, although longer, seems more appealing.

I know that some (not all) CRNA schools accept an appropriate bachelors degree and an RN (with experience in acute care). So my question is, is it dumb to do the ADN program and apply to CRNA school with a BS biology + RN?

I'm just seeking advise on how to become a nurse (and eventually CRNA) the cheapest and quickest way I can.

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Specializes in ICU.

How would you only be part time? The nursing program should be full time. Most people get the coreqs done ahead of time, as I did but I am still a full time student. Also many ADN programs tell you not to work during nursing school. It is a very rigorous program. I think you have some unrealistic expectations of what an ADN program is.

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I haven't stated nursing school (yet), so my knowledge is obviously limited.

If you do an ADN program, the biggest hurdle you will have to move toward your ultimate goal is getting that ICU experience. In many parts of the country, hospitals are requiring a BSN.

So, you might need to get your BSN either way.

Another option you could consider is Anesthesiologist Assistant, if they are authorized to practice in your state.

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there are plenty of people that work full-time(me being one) and do nursing school. yes its going to be hard, but it can be and has been done

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It would be part time because the way that my community college has their program set up, I already have half of the courses done.

for example, summer I is human a and p for the first half and human a and p II for the second half of summer.

I've already taken those classes.

First spring semester is nursing I (which I don't have) and nutrition, a fine arts elective, and statistics. I've already taken the other three. So I would only be enrolled in 9 hours that semester (making me a part time student).

I don't have unrealistic expectations about the ADN program. I just can't possibly be a full time student during the first half of the program.

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Specializes in Emergency Department.

Look at a couple things... first, determine your projected graduation dates from both programs. Then with the ADN program add on about another academic year for and ADN->BSN upgrade. Look at the costs in terms of time and funds. Then figure out which way is best for you overall.

Good luck!

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Specializes in ICU.

That's strange. We have at least 12 credit hours of just nursing classes each semester. A&P I and II are prereqs. I know each school is different, that just seems strange. And yes, I know there are people that work but it is very difficult on them then studying. Nursing school is very hard. I just want you to understand that up front. I just don't want to see you flunk out of the program which is what many people do. Like thinking oh, it's only 9 credit hours I can handle that easily. Because 9 hours in the nursing program is not the same as 9 prereq credit hours. Last semester I did 16, and this I will have 12, but I know the 12 this semester will be much harder than my 16. That is my point.

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Specializes in Cardiac Stepdown, PCU.

You are likely going to need a BSN, not just a BS + RN for your future goal. That said.. you are more than able to do the ADN program and then do an RN to BSN bridge if you find out that you do indeed need a BSN. It would be a longer route, but it would likely be less expensive than the ABSN, and accumulate less debt/be easier to pay for as you go along.

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Unless the ABSN is like $100K and the ADN is $25K, go for the BSN. It looks like you will be done earlier, even before you start counting the extra time it will take to finish your RN-to-BSN.

As time goes on, the advanced nursing degrees (like the CRNA) will require more education. Unless there is a significant difference in cost, I would highly recommend that you go the BSN route and not limit yourself down the line.

Now you have 16 months to start saving to offset the cost of the ABSN program. That's enough time to offset some of the difference between the ABSN and the ADN, I would imagine.

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Specializes in Nurse Scientist-Research.

Also consider with the ADN if you will actually be able to start May 2015. Depending on the program & its popularity, students will often have to wait months if not a couple of years to get in.

You also need to consider as others have said that to get the experience you need for CRNA school, BSN will make you more marketable. Some areas of the country hire ADN & BSN new grads equally into specialties. Other areas are extremely tight & only BSN grads stand a chance. Few give credit for other degrees. Research your area's new grad climate to help you make that decision.

Having said all that, if your area is new ADN friendly, the best route might be quick entry into ADN school (if this is possible), then after graduation & successfully starting an ICU job, look to doing an RN to BSN program. I wouldn't limit myself as a potential CRNA student by only being able to apply to the few programs that accept non-BSN candidates.

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Specializes in Family Nursing & Psychiatry.

Get your bachelors!

Matthew, RN

UCLA School of Nursing 2016

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