ADN is fine?

[mtruland]

Hello,

I'm a student at UNH in Durham, NH. I am currently on a pre-nursing track to get a BSN. This is going to take me five years, as I had some trouble finding what I truly wanted to do.

Through my work on my local ambulance as an EMT, I have decided that I want to work somewhere in the medical field (Most likely flight Nurse or Paramedic). I was wondering if getting a BSN is totally worth it. I realize that I have the option to get it later, which I would plan to do anyways. What is your opinion on this topic. What should I do? 5 years and get BSN, or 2 and get ADN? Also, how are those online RN-BSN programs, and are they worth it???

I know for a fact that I will get paramedic at some point, as I can challenge the paramedic test with an RN degree. This is just going to be a hobby though as a volunteer.

Thanks - MTruland

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

Employers usually have a cap on what they pay. My employer pays $2300/year tuition reimbursement. Most other folks in my class have a similar cap.

Yep, my employer pays $1,000 yearly as a tuition reimbursement. That will barely pay for the books and school supplies, and it sure isn't enough to cover the cost of the classes.

[nursetobein2010]

I am in the same boat - trying to figure out what to do!!! I already have a BA (Music) but I am not interested in doing an Accelerated BSN program as I am having a child this fall and don't think I could a handle an intense 12 month program. I am applying for programs for Fall 2008 and am torn between BSN and ADN programs. Because of my family plans, I am leaning more toward the ADN programs (so much cheaper, perhaps a little easier, etc). However, so many people have told me that the BSN is the way to go and I'll regret it if I don't do it now. But then again, reading through this forum, it sounds relatively painless to pick up a BSN later. What is the work load like? I would want to continue working while picking up the BSN later - would this be feasible with a child and a life in addition to job and school?

So many choices to make! Glad to have found this forum.

[LaborNurse1]

I am applying for programs for Fall 2008 and am torn between BSN and ADN programs. Because of my family plans, I am leaning more toward the ADN programs (so much cheaper, perhaps a little easier, etc).

They are not any easier...remember, students graduating from ADN programs take the exact same boards as BS/BSN students....so the nursing content is virtually the same. The 4 year programs have more community and management, but they aren't any harder!

[Miss Calculation]

I went the ADN route and have never regretted it. After a two year break from school, I went back and completed my BSN totally online. My employer also paid for my BSN, so it was a win-win situation for me. I worked full-time (and had a newborn and toddler) while completing the program and never really had much problem. Luckily, I also have a fabulous husband who supported me every step of the way.

Good luck with whatever you decide on.

Hi Mom of 2

What on-line BSN program did you choose? I'd be interested in that route too.

Thanks!

[Danycejw2006]

I also went the ADN route and glad i did. Like the others have stated, it is cheaper, faster......yet you receive the same education. The nursing education is two year regardless.

I graduated in may 2006 and now working in a hospital setting. My job is paying for me to get my RN-MSN in FULL and I start in this fall.

So not only did I do it cheaper but i will also receive my BSN and MSN in less time than it would take the 4 year student that enter at the same time..... because i have the 1 year working experience behind me.

....but whatever decision you make, nurising is the way to go. We need more nurses and im glad you've choosen this field. God Bless.