I'm a student at UNH in Durham, NH. I am currently on a pre-nursing track to get a BSN. This is going to take me five years, as I had some trouble finding what I truly wanted to do.
Through my work on my local ambulance as an EMT, I have decided that I want to work somewhere in the medical field (Most likely flight Nurse or Paramedic). I was wondering if getting a BSN is totally worth it. I realize that I have the option to get it later, which I would plan to do anyways. What is your opinion on this topic. What should I do? 5 years and get BSN, or 2 and get ADN? Also, how are those online RN-BSN programs, and are they worth it???
I know for a fact that I will get paramedic at some point, as I can challenge the paramedic test with an RN degree. This is just going to be a hobby though as a volunteer.
Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.
Employers usually have a cap on what they pay. My employer pays $2300/year tuition reimbursement. Most other folks in my class have a similar cap.
Yep, my employer pays $1,000 yearly as a tuition reimbursement. That will barely pay for the books and school supplies, and it sure isn't enough to cover the cost of the classes.
I am in the same boat - trying to figure out what to do!!! I already have a BA (Music) but I am not interested in doing an Accelerated BSN program as I am having a child this fall and don't think I could a handle an intense 12 month program. I am applying for programs for Fall 2008 and am torn between BSN and ADN programs. Because of my family plans, I am leaning more toward the ADN programs (so much cheaper, perhaps a little easier, etc). However, so many people have told me that the BSN is the way to go and I'll regret it if I don't do it now. But then again, reading through this forum, it sounds relatively painless to pick up a BSN later. What is the work load like? I would want to continue working while picking up the BSN later - would this be feasible with a child and a life in addition to job and school?
So many choices to make! Glad to have found this forum.
I am applying for programs for Fall 2008 and am torn between BSN and ADN programs. Because of my family plans, I am leaning more toward the ADN programs (so much cheaper, perhaps a little easier, etc).
They are not any easier...remember, students graduating from ADN programs take the exact same boards as BS/BSN students....so the nursing content is virtually the same. The 4 year programs have more community and management, but they aren't any harder!
I went the ADN route and have never regretted it. After a two year break from school, I went back and completed my BSN totally online. My employer also paid for my BSN, so it was a win-win situation for me. I worked full-time (and had a newborn and toddler) while completing the program and never really had much problem. Luckily, I also have a fabulous husband who supported me every step of the way.
Good luck with whatever you decide on.
Hi Mom of 2
What on-line BSN program did you choose? I'd be interested in that route too.
I also went the ADN route and glad i did. Like the others have stated, it is cheaper, faster......yet you receive the same education. The nursing education is two year regardless.
I graduated in may 2006 and now working in a hospital setting. My job is paying for me to get my RN-MSN in FULL and I start in this fall.
So not only did I do it cheaper but i will also receive my BSN and MSN in less time than it would take the 4 year student that enter at the same time..... because i have the 1 year working experience behind me.
....but whatever decision you make, nurising is the way to go. We need more nurses and im glad you've choosen this field. God Bless.
TheCommuter, BSN, RN
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