ADN thenBSN then MSN or ADN-MSN

Trauma Columnist · Dec 31, 2008

Personally, I would recommend getting a couple of years experience and really scoping out the MSN roles that you would be interested in and then doing an ADN to MSN.

UVA Grad Nursing · Jan 1, 2009

ADN-MSN programs have become more popular, but I do not think they are for everyone. Take a look at the curriculum of an AD-MSN program. In most cases, the schools are putting BSN-prepared individuals and AD-prepared individuals in the same NP courses for pathophysiology, research, theory, health policy, etc. Most RN-BSN programs involve this content as well.

The key is whether an AD/diploma graduate has enough of a foundation in theory, research methods, patho, policy, and leadership models to succeed in a MSN/NP program. Some can -- especially those who can teach themselves the BSN content levels. Many cannot. I have heard from my counterparts at other schools that the dropout/failure rate is higher for AD graduates than BSN-prepared graduates in these programs.

Having an undergradute degree in another area is wonderful -- but is not going to give everyone with the necessary background in nursing research, patho, or nursing theories that many MSN faculty assume

Goodoldnurse · Jan 5, 2009

It really depends on what you want to do with your career. If you want to teach (Masters in Nursing Ed) you may want to go through the AD -BSN program so you can be an adjunct or clinical instructor. Please do some research before you decide.

Jo Dirt · Jan 6, 2009

I went the ADN to BSN route because it just seemed like there would be a gap in my education without it. Also, ADN-MSN programs do not award BSN degrees, so if you went part of the way and couldn't finish you'd have nothing to show for it, even though you may have completed a lot of the work.

bribri77 · Jan 15, 2009

Actually, some programs do confer your BSN degree when you've met requirements. (I did an ADN-MSN program and got a BSN diploma and MSN diploma).

I think if you have a clear idea of what you want to do, then an ADN-MSN is for you. I knew I wanted to be an ACNP, so I went right through. If you're undecided, what's the rush? Don't make a decision you'll regret half-way through the MSN curriculum! Finish your BSN, work a little while, get some experience and decide what you're passionate about. Look into distance MSN programs if your local schools only offer BSN level degrees. A lot of schools are offering distance education for advanced degrees, so that's an option for you too.

The MSN (and PhD, by the way) are huge commitments and a ton of work. Let it be for something that makes you want to get up in the morning. If you're not sure, take the time to think about it!