What program to apply for?

Nursing Students Pre-Nursing

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Hello everyone. I think I made a thread a few months ago about applying to school, but I'm still unsure of what to do.

I've been looking at entry level master's programs because I do not have a Bachelor's degree in Nursing. I heard that the AACN or something is changing rules (or something...) to make NP programs doctorate levels only? Most master's programs that I can apply to are to become a CNL, whereas the rest are for NP.

I don't really know what to go for. Can a CNL become an NP? I don't want to just apply for a postbac program because I already have a Bachelor's degree so I figured that I may as well just get a Master's. Any advice? I sort of just want to do bedside stuff but like I said, I just want to get a "higher" degree since I already graduated college and am applying to school again. :/

(Not sure if this is the right forum)

Specializes in Surgical.

I do not currently have knowledge of any MSN program that does not require prior nursing education. The MSN programs I know require either a BSN or an ADN. As you already have a Bachelor's degree, your options now are to apply to an ABSN program, which is accelerated, then apply to Master's, or to apply to an ADN program, then get your Master's. Many universities are still offering MSN programs alongside DNP programs, so there is no need to worry about the lack of MSN programs. You can choose to be a CNL or NP once you are actually filling out your MSN application. CNL and NP are just different specialties of MSN.

Specializes in PCU, LTAC, Corrections.

I am actually going to start a entry level masters program in the Fall. When I complete this program I will have a MSN and I will be a CNL. To answer your question, a CNL can become an NP. All you would have to do is go back to school and specialize in the area that you wish. I plan on going back to school an eventually earn my NP and become a CRNA or an adult acute care NP. I had actually received admission to an ABSN program but I decided is I was going to spend that type of money I might as well get a MSN.

I do not currently have knowledge of any MSN program that does not require prior nursing education. The MSN programs I know require either a BSN or an ADN. As you already have a Bachelor's degree, your options now are to apply to an ABSN program, which is accelerated, then apply to Master's, or to apply to an ADN program, then get your Master's. Many universities are still offering MSN programs alongside DNP programs, so there is no need to worry about the lack of MSN programs. You can choose to be a CNL or NP once you are actually filling out your MSN application. CNL and NP are just different specialties of MSN.

There are indeed programs that offer a MSN for students with a non-nursing degree. A CNL is not an advanced practice position. If someone wants to become a NP after a CNL MSN, there are certificate programs designed to accomplish that.

Thanks for the comments! Do you know how long the certificate programs are?

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