AA to BSN or straight to BSN what should I do??

[cindybf]

I am having a hard time deciding which way to go here. I can apply to the Jr college into the AA nursing program and then transfer to the BSN accelerated online program or just finish the prerequisites and go directly to the BSN accelerated program.

If I go into the AA program I should finish in 3 years or more including the pre requisites and application process since the college doesnt offer all the classes all the time for the pre requisites. I could work during the next portion of the BSN program as an RN. It would take more time as it would take approximately 4.5 years to finish this way.

If I do the pre requisites with the same university vs Jr College and apply directly to the BSN online program it would take approximately 3.5 years total but it would cost a lot more. In fact I think about 15k more. I do think it would probably be easier to concentrate on the classes if I am not working at all.

I should also mention that my ultimate goal is to become a CRNA but I am not concerned with that right now as I know I need experience under my belt before and that a lot might change as I work in the field and I might enjoy another area more. I really wanted to go the MDA route when I was younger but family obligations became a priority. I didnt even know about the CRNA career, that you dont have to go to medical school until recently.

I am also concerned at how easy it would be to get an RN job with the AA vs the BSN right after school in Dallas? I am not too familiar with how the application process is in that aspect, do BSN trained RN's get better jobs than RN's with just the two year program? Any advice is appreciated.

I should ad that I am 32 years old now and time is a concern for me :)

thanks!

[nkochrn, RN]

If your going to get a BSN I'd go straight that way and not do the AA.

[j621d]

Personally, I would go the BSN route. You will read many of the people on this board that are new graduates from ADN programs that are having a difficult time finding a job. I think more and more the hospitals are hiring BSN over ADN when all other factors are equal.

Other things to consider would be if you really want to be in school AND working. It sounds good, but I think it would be very difficult. I remember thinking to myself that I was glad to get through school without children and not having to work at the same time. See if you qualify for scholarships

[kayern]

First, check your local hospitals and see if they are hiring AAS RNs. My institution does not. I would recommend the BSN

[iPink, BSN, RN]

I never knew there were accelerated BSN programs offered to those who have an AA degree? I know there are ABSN programs offered to those who have a minimum 4 year degree in a non-nursing field.

I just found out my CC has an accelerated ASN program, which lasts 3 semesters. Check around if schools near you offer that as well.

Like others have stated, I would get BSN if you can. In my area BSN are "preferred or required" at hospitals. But do your homework.

[SunSurfRN]

try to get in somewhere first....its competitive these days. Once into school, lean BSN for job purposes!

[lwndrgn]

Since you're in Dallas (I am too, btw) if you can get into a AAS RN program do it. Its very hard with all the prerequisites and waiting lists. Afterwards you can always take the online Rn-BSN at UT Arlington. Jobs are a little harder to find, but you will find one here. Im a new grad VN and got a job where I did clinicals the first week after graduating. I love our metroplex for nursing jobs. But the hard part is getting into a good nursing program.....good luck on whichever route you go.