ADN vs Accelerated BSN?

[russiangirl]

I can't decide what program to go to. I can start ADN (2 years) in January 2008 or a new A-BSN 15 month program in CSUN in Summer 2008. What are pros and cons of accelerated programs? Has anyone already applied to CSUN A-BSN? Will appreciate anyone opinion.

[EricJRN, MSN, RN]

You might apply to both and see what happens. While some people do end up having to choose between multiple schools that accepted them, with today's competition for slots that is not a common dilemma.

[nakeliku]

Its really a matter of time, dedication, and financial stability. The A-BSN program does not allow you to work at the same time, so you have to be financially stable for the 15 months of the program. However, if you're not afraid to be studying for a full-time year, I think it's the way to go because you're out in 15 months with another bachelor's degree, as opposed to an ADN in two years of part time study. However, going the ADN route allows you to work at the same time, AND you get two years of clinical practice rather than one.

I'm planning on applying to the A-BSN at CSUN, as well as Mt. St. Mary's, and have been saving as much as possible right now to make sure my husband and I will be able to afford a whole year of me not working. But the dedication is not a problem for me. I loooove school, and finished my first bachelor's in three years...

So I guess it's really just up to you and how you think you'll be able to handle a program as intense as the A-BSN, and whether it's financially feasible!

[FAworld]

I'm going through the same dilemma myself especially as the ADN application is well before the ABSN (so if I got accepted at the ADN, I'd need to decide). I'm leaning more and more toward the ABSN for the reasons the poster above mentioned - graduating with another bachelors, in less time. But a bit concerned about carrying 15 units a semester with 2 young children, although I have the support of family.