ADN to BSN (to MSN) or BSN to MSN?

[Buddyxboi]

Yes, the title sounds very funny and an obvious choice at first...but, keep in mind that ADN to BSN takes about the same amount of time to get through a regular BSN program. So with that said, what I am actually weighing are the different costs, time length, job opportunities, and possibly more "acceptance" within the Nursing community and future Master Program Schools of Admission.

As for myself:

Since I am on the Governor's Fee Waiver in local community colleges, I may be able to obtain my ADN (RN-License) for free. With this, I can maybe take a 1-year course to obtain my BSN degree. This allows me to start working as a RN while taking classes to get my BSN. Afterwards, I may be able to work with my BSN degree while obtaining my MSN degree.

My second option to go through the regular 3 years of BSN in a 4-year university (such as CSU-LA/LB/SB), will probably be very costly. However, does it look better to have a BSN from such universities? Will it find me better jobs?

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In fact, I have already applied to these CSU's for the Fall 2012 admissions. I have currently a:

3.4 Cumulative GPA

3.8-4.0 Pre-Requisite GPA (depending on schools)

I have taken the TEAS (ATI) already:

91% Reading

80% Math

93% Science

98% English

I have about 100 hours of Volunteering Experience at my local hospital

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Therefore, I believe I have a decent shot at being admitted to these certain CSU-Nursing Programs. So I believe ruling out such possibilities for BSN at a University at this point shouldn't be a priority just yet.

What do you think?

[BlueDevil,DNP, DNP, RN]

I don't really understand much of the content of your disjointed post, but I am gathering it boils down to free ADN vs. expensive BSN. My answer would depend on how old I was and if I would have to borrow (how much and at what rate) to afford the BSN. I would take a long hard look at eventual earning potential with regard to investment funds and retirement savings (since you mention your long term MSN career goals). When will you start building an investment portfolio and saving for retirement, and how much will you be investing and saving? If getting the BSN and MSN earlier, even at greater expense, would increase investment dollars earlier, the miracle of compound interest may well make it worth it. Sit down with an investment adviser to figure out the finer points.

[azilliRN]

Nursing is my second career. I already have a Bachelor of Arts Degree. However, I went back to school and earned my A.D.N. and now working as an RN in a Family Practice Clinic. The company I work for is encouraging us RNs to get our BSN. In fact, they prefer BSN over A.D.N. degrees. If you have the time and the means, I would suggest going for your BSN. In the end - everyone takes the same Boards. I'm returning to school after two years of being an RN to earn my BSN. Good luck in your decision.