Accelerated non-nursing BS to MSN degree

[logel316]

Hi, just hoping that someone has gone through an accelerated program to get an MSN. Marquette University in Milwaukee, WI has a program for people with non nursing bachelor degrees to get a Masters in Nursing. I have a BS in Psychology and am interested in nursing. At first I was looking into getting an Associates degree at a local tech school then getting my BS in Nursing later. This new alternative option seems like a no brainer. Any real life experiences by others who have gone through something similar to this would be great.

[elkpark]

Welcome to allnurses! :balloons:

The type of program you describe is generally, generically referred to as a "direct entry" MSN program. Lots of schools have them, and some have been around for a long time. If you look through the nursing students fora (inc. the graduate student forum), you will find lots of discussion about direct entry programs -- there are many posters here who are in them, or considering whether to pursue one.

Like most everything else in life :), there are pros and cons to these programs. Only you would be able to decide what is the best choice for you in your personal circumstances.

Best wishes for your journey.

[BCgradnurse, MSN, RN, NP]

Hi,

I am a 2009 graduate of a direct entry program. I am now working as an FNP. I am so glad I went this route. It was the hardest thing I've ever done, in terms of intensity and amount of work, but it was so worth it. I went through my program full time, and had little time for anything else. I was able to get a job immediately, and I feel I was well prepared to be an entry level FNP. It's not for everyone-you have to be willing to sacrifice the majority of your free time and social life, and work really hard at your studies. Most people do not work if they do one of these programs full time. I was able to work about 14 hours a week as my job was very flexible with my schedule, and I usually had some down time when I could study. Hope this helps.....good luck to you!

[TRR8021]

If I had to do it all over again, I would go to one of those programs. My interest in nursing has always been to be an NP anyway. Instead of going straight for the master's, I've been plugging away at the BSN part time for the last 3 years and have 2 more semesters to go :)

Like a previous poster said, there are pros and cons. It's been good because I've been able to keep working while I go to school (I cut my hours to fit in school) but on the other hand, I still live like a student.