ADN or Masters?

Nurses Career Support

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I am currently a senior health sciences major at college. Upon graduation, I want to pursue a career in nursing, but I don't know if I should get my associate's or master's. I want to get my master's, but I don't want to go into the program not really knowing anything and I end up failing or dropping from the program. I wanted to do the associates because it's less time and I'd have some type of experience before getting a master's. I'm confused on what to do...I need advice!!

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Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

The job market for new grads is pretty brutal right now. Hospitals are going BSN-only at a rapid clip so ADNs are relegated to non-acute environments. Hiring managers tend to avoid entry level MSN grads (ELM) because they just don't fit. MSN is synonymous with advanced skills/knowledge but ELMs do not qualify for any type of advanced role so they end up competing with all other new grads for the same entry-level jobs - no salary distinctions. Lack of an undergrad nursing degree will also limit career mobility because some states require this in order to become licensed.

If OP is absolutely determined to pursue a nursing education, strongly recommend getting a BSN.

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