ABSN or MS??

I am in your same position - and I am going to apply to both programs, but my first choice is an ELMSN program (direct entry masters).

I'm applying to two ABSN/MSN combo programs and two ABSN programs, for a summer or fall 2008 start. I'd prefer to enter one of the combo programs, but included reputable and highly recommended ABSN programs as extra options. It was important to me to cast a wide net as last year I applied to only one DEMSN program and was not accepted.

If do get accepted to the combo program (JHU & Columbia) and choose to attend either one, the advantage is that I would have the opportunity to go directly into the MSN portion (or take a break to gain bedside experience), without having to apply to a grad program again.

If I do not get accepted to those, but to one of the ABSN programs, I'll have a chance to get a start on my path in a great program.

I'd say investigate specific programs that fit your criteria and apply to a combination of different programs. When notifications are made for all of them, then the decision making will really begin on your part and you can weigh the pros/cons.

Good luck!

It depends on what you want to do, both immediately and down the road. It sounds like you are unsure what area you'd want to specialize in as an NP, so I would think that either an ABSN or a generalist MSN program (i.e. clinical nurse leadership or something similarly general) would be your best bet. I am doing the latter because I knew the MSN would at least allow me to teach (in my location you need a masters), but I figure I'll go on later to specialize. If I hadn't gotten into this program an ABSN would have likely been my 2nd choice since all the other direct-entry MSN programs I was interested in seemed to require specialization.

For me, I am taking my pre-reqs at the local community college and then applying direct to a Masters/Doctoral program. But I want to be a NP so this is my reasoning for doing so.

It just depends on why specialty you want or whether you want to be a general nurse.

Lots of decisions.

Hi, I'm in a direct entry BSN / MSN program. I also applied to ABSN programs. My goal was to get my masters as fast as I could. But I have had to think many times about what specialty to get my MSN in. In our program, we can change our mind during the BSN part. I've also heard that about half of last year's class is taking at least a year off to work first (and they can return for the MSN when ready). Best of luck - it is a very difficult decision.