ADN to MSN yay or nay ?

Jules A, MSN · May 14, 2010

The reason I did ADN to BSN before starting the MSN program was because I wanted something in my hand as soon as possible in case something happened or I just got sick of school and couldn't bear to go on. :) My opinion is that as long as someone works as a nurse before coming out as a brand spanking new MSN that hasn't ever given an injection its mostly about which way is best for the individual.

creativetype2007 · May 18, 2010

does anyone know where to find a list of ADN to MSN programs if you already have a bachelors in another field? You always hear there are many but it would be so much more efficient if there was a list of some kind. Thanks.

guiltysins · May 18, 2010

does anyone know where to find a list of ADN to MSN programs if you already have a bachelors in another field? You always hear there are many but it would be so much more efficient if there was a list of some kind. Thanks.

Actually there are some traditional MSN programs that you can apply to if you have a Bachelor's in another field along with your ADN. They don't have to be ADN to MSN programs.

peaceofmind8 · May 18, 2010

I am in the same position ... I was accepted to an MSN program and an ADN program both with good reputations. The MSN program is expensive, the ADN almost free. I wonder though, is it worth going the ADN route which provides a strong clinical foundation to find that elusive first job in a bad economy, then continuing on to an MSN later with the money saved? Another concern ... if I go into the direct entry MSN and find for whatever reason that nursing is not really my 'calling', I'm out some serious money. Suggestions?

merky · May 25, 2010

That first NP job may be just as elusive, esp w/out clinical experience. I'm going ADN instead of direct entry MSN so I might be a little biased

I know someone had mentioned about PAs getting hired right out of school w/out experience, but they get way more clinical hours as compared to NP programs. No judgement implied, but that's just the way it is I don't care, my :redbeathe is still in being an NP!

OP: Yay!!

Moogie · May 25, 2010

I am in the same position ... I was accepted to an MSN program and an ADN program both with good reputations. The MSN program is expensive, the ADN almost free. I wonder though, is it worth going the ADN route which provides a strong clinical foundation to find that elusive first job in a bad economy, then continuing on to an MSN later with the money saved? Another concern ... if I go into the direct entry MSN and find for whatever reason that nursing is not really my 'calling', I'm out some serious money. Suggestions?

I think it all depends on your financial situation. Normally I would say, go for the DEMSN over the ADN, but given the realities of increasing tuition costs, it has become crystal clear to me why the ADN may, for some people, be the best option. If you aren't sure that you will like nursing, you will get a feel for that fairly soon, maybe during clinicals, maybe during the first year as a nurse. If the tuition is as inexpensive as you say, while I think it's important to get as much education as you can, I would be tempted to do the ADN track instead.

Do consider getting a job as a CNA first to get your feet wet---you may find out at that time nursing is not your calling.

I wish you the best in your decision!

Moogie · May 25, 2010

That first NP job may be just as elusive, esp w/out clinical experience. I'm going ADN instead of direct entry MSN so I might be a little biased

Merky, may I ask you what made you decide on the ADN instead of the DEMSN? I'm not trying to put you on the spot or say that your choice is wrong---but I am in a nurse educator master's track myself right now and wondering what makes prospective students choose one program over another.

The bottom line is, some people cannot afford the initial investment in their education and it might make more sense for them to go step by step: LPN to ADN, ADN to BSN, BSN to grad school. It can take more time, but what I do like about the "one step at a time approach" is that if you need to drop out or stop out of your education, you at least have the previous degree onto which you can fall back. You can also get killer experience so that you are better prepared once you go get your final degree.

Good luck and thanks in advance!

peaceofmind8 · May 25, 2010

Moogie -

Thanks for your thoughts. I'm still up in the air but feel lucky to have choices! The cost difference is substantial -- $1000 per unit vs. $25 per unit. Of course one is graduate school so that's understandable. The grad program is clearly superior academically but unfortunately does not lead to an advanced practice degree. It is a CNL program. The slower pace of the ADN would allow me to flesh out my interest in complementary care, see how the field adjusts to healthcare reform, recession (recovery?) etc. and will perhaps give me the opportunity to customize my own path and decide whether nursing really is for me, and if so where I want to take it (MSN choices/NP) etc.

As one on the Educator track, what is your opinion about CNL programs and positioning in the field?

Thanks!

merky · May 26, 2010

Hey Moogs (may I call you that?). That's exactly why Im going the ADN to BSN to MSN track...money savings! Also, I need time to suss out what I want as an NP specialty. I think this is a great way to do things. Those pricey DE programs just want our $$, with little guarantee of a job after we get out.