Hello all.. I'm a long time lurker, but first time poster and need some advice
I'm a recent college graduate with tons (and tons and tons) of student loans. I'm considering going to get my ADN from the local community college (Westchester Community College in NY). I understand the testing and hoopla involved in going for that.. what I really want to know is: Is it worth it to have an ADN? I cannot afford a BSN right now. There is just no way I can swing it financially or find the time. The ADN I can do part time while working full time AND pay for it as I go. I just don't want to spend all this time and money working on a degree that wont benefit me.
As an Accelerated BSN grad, I recommend it to everybody. It only takes one year. If pursue ADN then BSN it will take at least 3 years. But I know the cost of a BSN is not feasible for everybody.
Know your local job market. My hospital only hires new grads with BSNs. I think it is unfortunate but it is increasingly becoming the case in many metropolitan areas so do some research before you take the plunge.
Yes, it is definitely worth it. I am in an ASN program now and it is said we have higher NCLEX pass rates than some of the BSN programs because we learn exactly what we need to sit for the NCLEX and then take it right away. There is basically less time for you to forget the information and we focus less on theory.
I would also land a job as a nurse extern after completing your first semester of actual nursing courses for the experience/pay. The hospital will likely hire you as a new grad. afterward. Also, most hospitals will help pay for you to continue your education (in your case, a BSN).
I have heard that eventually all RN's will have to have BSN's...but I'm not sure when this is expected to take place? Both places I interviewed at for an extern position asked whether I was planning to obtain my BSN after graduating from the ASN program. Hope this helps!
Love my ADN! I went to a local CC to get it and am working on my BSN - on the hospital's dime. I would check with facilities in your area to see what they are hiring. In my area (upstate NY) they are still hiring ADNs - BSNs only get $1/hr. But I have heard other areas are being pickier because of the economy.
Good luck whatever you decide to do !
That should have been $1 more per hour. Not $1/hr.
Hello all.. I'm a long time lurker, but first time poster and need some advice
I'm a recent college graduate with tons (and tons and tons) of student loans. I'm considering going to get my ADN from the local community college (Westchester Community College in NY). I understand the testing and hoopla involved in going for that.. what I really want to know is: Is it worth it to have an ADN? I cannot afford a BSN right now. There is just no way I can swing it financially or find the time. The ADN I can do part time while working full time AND pay for it as I go. I just don't want to spend all this time and money working on a degree that wont benefit me.
Thank you guys!! :redbeathe
A lot of places do not pay more for a BSN vs an ADN. Both have an RN degree. What is it that you really want to know?
Not $1/hr.
ok2bme
428 Posts
As an Accelerated BSN grad, I recommend it to everybody. It only takes one year. If pursue ADN then BSN it will take at least 3 years. But I know the cost of a BSN is not feasible for everybody.
Know your local job market. My hospital only hires new grads with BSNs. I think it is unfortunate but it is increasingly becoming the case in many metropolitan areas so do some research before you take the plunge.