ADN to BSN vs. ADN to MSN Programs (Maricopa CC, ASU, NAU, UofP and GCU)

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Specializes in Neuro.

I am nearing completion of my nursing school pre-reqs and recently discovered the Maricopa County Community Colleges not only have several ADN to BSN dual enrollment programs (through ASU, NAU and UofP), but, just added a new ADN to MSN program through GCU (first cohort begins Spring 2015) for those who already have a bachelors degree in another non-nursing field. I am one of those who currently holds a bachelors in a non-nursing field. Anyone looked into an ADN to MSN program? For those of you who may already have their BSN's or MSN's is there a great benefit of one over the other? Through the current ADN to MSN program GCU has, you never actually earn a BSN, you go from your ADN straight to MSN. Any incite into a BSN v. MSN program by any of you who have been there or those who like me who are looking into these programs would be greatly appreciated.

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Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

As long as you obtain an undergrad nursing degree somewhere along the way, it's all good. I am happy to see an increasing number of educational articulation agreements that actually encourage nurses to advance their educations. Such a nice change from all the barriers we usually encounter.

Once you get that ADN and settle into your career, I encourage you to just blast on through for your MSN. This is becoming an increasingly common requirement for any sort of advanced or specialty role in acute care. It is entry level for nurse educators and administrators. BUT (you knew it was coming) take the time to actually become comfortable in your nursing practice before choosing your MSN specialty; a generic MSN really doesn't have much value, career-wise.

Best of luck on your educational pathway.

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