Advice Please? Going into Pre-Nursing after just getting my BA

StudentN123 · Sep 11, 2013

Hey there, I think it really depends on the type of RN program you are applying to. Most ADN programs don't take into consideration your BA transcript, however you have to be aware that your "GE" requirements like english and history might be taken account of when applying. However, what's great is that a lot of ADN programs award you will extra points just because you have a BA or BS already. Nevertheless, I think the core of your chances really comes from your science pre-reqs (Anatomy,Physio,Micro,ect); any hospital experience such as CNA, EMT, LVN, cardiac tech ect, and your TEAS exam score. (TEAS is a critical thinking exam that tests your english, math, science, and reading) On another aspect, you can also look into getting a BSN as some universities offer special programs for students who already have a BA or BS and want to get an accelerated BSN. These types of accelerated programs are however much more impacted and completive to get in. Either way all nursing programs are impacted lol, but you just have to remember to stay positive and keep on working towards your goals! :) Hope I helped a bit and best of luck to you!

ScientistSalarian · Sep 11, 2013

An Accelerated BSN program (ABSN) is usually the way to go for those who already hold a bachelor's degree, though you'll want to check the admissions requirements of each program you're interested in carefully - many places admit based on your bachelor's GPA only, and 2.6 isn't going to be competitive enough for a lot of schools. Private schools tend to be a lot more forgiving of low GPA's so if the added cost is worth it to you that might be the way to go. The ADN route might give you a clean slate as far as GPA (like the pp mentioned, most will give you credit for classes based on your transcripts but will calculate your GPA from scratch) but if your plan is to go right for an RN-BSN bridge program after the ADN you're looking at several more years in school compared to the ABSN route. Think about the amount of time and money you're willing/able to invest in pursuing nursing, look really carefully at the requirements and policies of each school you're considering, and figure out what's best for YOU. Good luck!

AccelCNL, MSN, RN · Sep 11, 2013

I read you post and I understand you predicament. I think the best thing for you to do is get awesome grades in the relevant pre-nursing courses. I graduated last year with a BA in History. I applied to one ABSN ( accelerated BSN) program and was accepted for Fall 2013. However, I decided to postpone my attendance until Fall 2014. I am looking at applying to CC in order to save money.

The grade situation honestly depends on the type of the program that you are applying to and the acceptance rate. Many ABSN programs have cutoff points for acceptance and often those who are accepted are have grades far above the required minimum. The same sometimes goes for CC. In other programs there are also requirements such as the GRE, MAT or TEAS exams. In some schools the entrance exam score determines admission regardless of the GPA.

You should do the following:

1) Research which programs you are interested in whether they be ADN programs, ABSN, or master's entry programs. See the requirements. Contact the admissions offices to ask for the acceptance rates if not published online.

2) Volunteer if possible. Your GPA is on the low side and this might show your dedication to admissions office. I personally did not volunteer as I did not have the time and I had to work. My GPA was over 3.7 and there were some programs I did not apply to because I knew that the GPA was still to low and I had no volunteer experience .

3) Study. Many programs ( at least here in NY) only count your first grade ( or attempt) in a prerequisite. A class that is repeated is sometimes averaged with the previous poor grade or sometimes disregarded altogether. Aim for As. Study as much as possible particularly in AP.

4) Do you really want to enter nursing? A lot of people want to enter the field thinking it's great money and that there are plenty of jobs. That is not true in certain parts of the country. Nothing is wrong with entering a field and hoping for great pay after schooling is complete. However, if a great paycheck is your only desire ( and I am not saying it is) another field will be best. I know too many people who want to become a nurse but they should not be a nurse....if you know what I mean. I did a deep soul searching to make sure that this was a path I wanted to commit to. The only reason that I did not start class this semester is I want to see if there is a much less expensive way to complete my dream ( trying to be fiscally conservative --not trying to add to my student debt).

If I get into the CC I am applying to I will transition to a BSN program as well. If I got to a CC and then attend a state university for the BSN I will spend under $20,000. The program I got into costs over $50K ( not including living costs).

I can't really speak for the SoCal area as I live in the NY tristate area but just do your research. Being prepared is half the battle.

Good luck! :)

NevadaFighter, BSN, RN · Sep 12, 2013

I held a previous degree (B.S. in Health Care Management) when I decided I wanted to go back for nursing school. I researched MANY schools across the country. I was eligible for several accelerated degree programs, but in the end, I decided to attend community college for an ADN. Even though it would have been 6 months shorter to the accelerated program (and have a higher degree), I decided that it would be in my best interest to do whatever was the least expensive. Since I already held a bachelors, I was ineligible for all financial aid, with the exception of private loans. I already had loans from my previous degree and really didn't want any more. I decided that going to the 15 months program (in which you were not allowed to work), that I would be about 30 thousand more dollars in the hole.

Every program is different and their acceptance requirements vary from school to school. Many schools don't even looks at your GPS. Do whatever is best for you.

Good luck in your endeavors!

prpprenurse · Sep 12, 2013

Thanks for all your posts! I will definitely research more programs and explore my options.