Advice on how to get my BSN

[Angela.RN2B]

I am considering two options to a BSN either a community college for a ASN then transfer into a BSN or taking prereqs and going to UMSL and apply to the accelerated BSN. I really need to know whats the quickest route? I have been told the wait is at least a year and a semester long, I could work on my prereqs while waiting says the community college advisor, the UMSL advisor says just apply to the full BSN it'll be quicker that way. Im 33 with 2 kids I want to be careful with my money. I am working as a Tech at a hospital whcih will help pay a portion, but I want to complete at least a basic RN as soon as possible because Im sick of being a tech and I also plan to continue on until I get my DNP, but I am really needing that RN for financial reasons. Any sound advice would be great. Thanks!

[Apollo85]

Hi Angela,

Yes, that does sound like a spot to be in. Just based on what you said, it does sound like traditional BSN is faster. It generally takes 4 years and you might be able to shorten it with summer classes (depending on wether UMSL has a strict sequence in which courses must be taken). It's also the most straightforward and seems the most secure. With the other option, there are many factors to consider: deadlines to sign up for a class, finishing the prerequisites on time, applying to ASN on time and getting accepted, getting your RN, applying for BSN and making the deadline, getting accepted into BSN program. You also need to consider the time between when you'll be qualified to apply (to ASN and BSN) and when the programs starts. For example: I'm not eligible for my choice school until I finish my prerequisites, but by the time I'm ready to apply, the deadline could be past or the program doesn't start for another 6 months. If you add up the 1.5 yrs, the years it takes to complete ASN (2 at my comm college), the time to finish BSN (around 2 i think)... it can definately add up. If you take the 4 yr program (could be shorter depending on if you have general education credit hours) it might not be so costly with the hospital pitching in and probably you can get some financial aid.

Hope this helps (and wasn't as confusing as I think it is)