Best Path to Take from MBA to NP/CRNA?

[djevxke]

Hey Everyone,

I've always wanted to become a nurse from the start but because of the time the nursing programs (or specifically the ones in all of the states closest to me) start, I would have to wait another entire year or more to even apply, fulfill all the pre-requisites and get accepted. So now, I currently have a Bachelor's Degree and MBA degree concentration in Finance.

Since I have the business background, I have been thinking about going into Nursing Administration or CNO but I know that might take a while as well as some years of experience. I feel bad in a way because I know that administration isn't necessarily something I would choose if I had to over NP or CRNA. But I just feel bad for wasting all the hard work and money into a degree and not being able to use it. But at the same time, I know I want to also get my MSN in advanced practice such as NP or CRNA. It is tough for me to decide what path to take because I feel like I want to also make sure my MBA is valuable too. What are your thoughts on NP vs CRNA based on situation and which one will be quicker to do as well as easier on the pocket? I also know that some MSN's offer specializations in Administration but I feel like I would rather do another specialization since an MSN on top of an MBA should be enough for me to qualify for administration jobs if I wanted that.

My main question is which program should I take to get to the NP/CRNA in the quickest and cheapest option? Also, I recently discovered Direct Entry MSN programs. These programs apparently will get you your RN, BSN, and then your MSN and are targeted for someone who has another major already. They are around three years. But before I even get admitted, I have to take those pre-requisites which might take a year or longer, which concerns me because I feel like I will be wasting so much time. Should I go for this route or do an accelerated bsn program which will also require pre-reqs and then I'll be able to work and get my masters? I am thinking the first choice might be better but what are your thoughts? Please help and inform me more about these programs and the best path to take!! I am not sure what to do at this point and need to make a decision quickly.

One more thing, what career choice do you think will be the best for me considering everything I have mentioned? Thank you :)

[Horseshoe, BSN, RN]

Well, for CRNA, you only need the BSN for admittance, as far as educational requirements go. But you MUST have 1-2 years OR MORE of ICU experience afterwards. So, I'd go for the quickest route to BSN, then make damn sure you get into a critical care new grad residency, put in your two years, then apply for CRNA. And make sure your grades are very good.

As far as worrying about time passing, I get it. But don't make that your overriding concern. I was a dissatisfied teacher, telling my mom that I'd always wanted to be a nurse. I said, "But if I start next year, I'll be 33 by the time I graduate!" She said, "How old will you be in four years if you DON'T go to nursing school?" What a good point! The time will pass whether you go for your dreams or not; where to you want to be at the end of that time period? Where you are right now, or doing what you dream of doing?