ABSN-MS or MECN/MEPN

Published

Hi! I'm a new poster here. I'm currently almost done with my Bachelor's degree at CSUF and I've been looking into Nursing for graduate school. I currently volunteer at a children's hospital, so that's how it really caught my interest.

I've been doing a ton of research and I still find myself confused, seems like that's how these things go.

I am wondering what the better route is - ABSN to Masters or to just go for a MECN or MEPN.

I have been looking at UCLA MECN, the school is of course a great choice, but I'm really turned off by the CNL part because that's not exactly what I am interested in. UCSF has a great MEPN, but I can't imagine how hard that is to get into (a stupid reason I guess, but still). Same goes for schools like Penn and UW, what if I'm not good enough kinda thing.

CSUF has an ABSN that's done in 5 semesters and they also have Master's programs in Nursing as well (Midwifery for example). I'll have to look into more schools that have ABSN programs.

Right now, I only have the general ed nursing prereqs done (psych, sociology, english, etc.) and none of the science. I plan on going straight to a CC after my Bachelor's is done in May 2014 and completing them as fast as possible with a high GPA (ideally of course). I also want to get my CNA asap as well. :coffee:

For the record, I am interested in pediatrics and midwifery (haven't decided yet as I haven't had experience in both peds and L&D). I'm assuming I'd want to get my Master's in one of these specialties.

Any opinions? Has anyone done either route and has experience, good or bad?

I feel like doing an ABSN program will let me have more experience and be a nurse faster, but I'm afraid I'll let too much time go by between that and a Master's. I'm also afraid if I do the MECN I'll be upset that I'm not specializing in what I want.

I've heard that at the end of the day, having an MSN not in a specialty really doesn't help you stand out against BSNs anyways.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner.

I'm going for the MECN option. I can always get a certificate in what I want later and in less time than a full masters program.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I want to do a Masters but am applying to ABSN programs as well just because everything is so competitive...

Up Vote Up Vote ×
I want to do a Masters but am applying to ABSN programs as well just because everything is so competitive...

I'll probably apply to both as well. It's tough - I really want to pursue a Master's, but it's super competitive and overwhelming. ABSN programs are good to get into the field quickly.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion