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Thinking about a bachelor's degree in psych



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Jul 04, 2009 05:21 AM

Thinking about a bachelor's degree in psych


Hello all, new here. Have been reading posts trying to decide if I should get a bachelor's degree in psychology. I have my RN with an associate of science. I currently work at a psychiatric hospital in Oklahoma. I would like to specialize in psych but don't want to throw thousands of dollars in tuition money out the window either if it won't help me. Any thoughts? Thanks in advance.


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4 Comments
No. 1
from maxthecat
Old Jul 04, 2009, 08:46 AM

Default Re: Thinking about a bachelor's degree in psych
Welcome!

I really don't think getting a bachelor's in psych would help you as an RN. We have folks with that credential working as techs for much less money than a nurse. If you want to learn more about your specialty you can read any number of textbooks on your own for much less money than going to school. If you want more "official" education, I would recommend going for a mental health nurse practitioner--there are Associates to Masters options available now. Just getting a BSN would advance you as an RN, but it wouldn't have the psych specialization which it sounds like you want.
I think you would get more for your money with a masters, and many more options as you advance in your career.
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No. 2
from Jules A
Old Jul 04, 2009, 11:58 AM

Default Re: Thinking about a bachelor's degree in psych
Yes, I'd consider doing the psychiatric nurse practitioner program.
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No. 3
from elkpark
Old Jul 04, 2009, 07:58 PM

Default Re: Thinking about a bachelor's degree in psych
As another poster commented already, a BSN will do a lot more to further your career than an undergrad degree in psych. BA/BS degrees in psych contain very little clinical content, and consist mostly of background material to prepare you to go to grad school in psych. The degree wouldn't do anything (much) to help you be a "better" psych nurse, and it wouldn't benefit you professionally.
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No. 4
Old Jul 05, 2009, 07:45 AM

Default Re: Thinking about a bachelor's degree in psych
I would have to agree...a bachelor's in psych is not the way to go.
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