Am I crazy? -- ADN over Master's Entry program?

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I've been accepted to two ADN programs and the Master's Entry program at a well known school where we'll be trained as Clinical Nurse Leaders. I'm thinking of choosing the ADN over the Master's Entry. Am I crazy?

My reason for choosing the ADN boils down to money. I will have NO DEBT when I complete the program. Whereas with the MSN program, I could potentially be in the hole about $70K.

I understand that as a Clinical Nurse Leader I will, in theory, be promoted quicker. But, as a graduate of a CNL program, my first two years will be at the same level and salary as a graduate from an Associate's degree program.

On the surface I think I'm crazy for wanting to go the ADN route over getting the MSN. I am planning to become a Nurse Practitioner, and if I attend the CNL program, I still have to go an additional 2 years for my post-Master's certificate to become an NP.

PLEASE give me your feedback, experience, and/or opinions.

Thank you!

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Specializes in Maternity, quality.

No, you're not crazy. I'm in a direct-entry CNL program myself and very happy with my choice. However, that doesn't make it the right choice for everyone. It sounds like you've given it a lot of thought. Finances are definitely a concern and being debt-free will help, especially if you are already planning to go back to school later on. Career goals are also important. If you already know that your ultimate goal is to be an NP, then the CNL is probably not the most direct path to get there.

Best of luck in making your decision.

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Specializes in L&D.

No, I don't think you are crazy at all. It's pretty well-known that the RN portion of a Master's entry program is very expensive. If you can get that part done with no debt, that is a huge plus.

If you already know you're headed for the NP, getting your CNL is probably not the most efficient use of your time or resources.

I would probably choose the ADN in your situation.

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Specializes in Critical Care, Hospice and Palliative Care.

Bree124,

No, you are not crazy. Over the past six months I've been pondering the same: I was accepted to two direct-entry master's programs and one ADN and finally decided to get the Associates. I'm very happy with my decision because although it will take two academic years to receive my RN license, I will be debt free and will have had the opportunity to decide which area I would like to specialize in. It leaves the door open for you to pursue becoming an NP, CNL, CNS, CRNA, nurse educator or even Physician Assistant. And since you already have your bachelor's, there's no need to worry about getting your BSN because you can apply to the master's programs so long as you take a few bridge classes. I've applied to several scholarships through my college and have received enough funds to pay for ALL tuition, books and fees- the financial aid options for direct-entry programs, as you know, are not nearly as generous. Once you come to a decision, it will feel as if a weight has been lifted off your shoulders! Whichever path you choose, you will BE an advanced practice nurse in 3-4 years, and that's quite remarkable. Good luck in your decision!

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Specializes in NICU.

Having done the first part of a BS/MS program, you are NOT crazy. I'd go the ADN route if I could do it over again. I decided after the BS portion that I wanted to get some experience before the MSN, and so I lost my guaranteed seat in the program, the 2/3 of my scholarship set aside for the MS, and now I'm 75K in debt. Don't put yourself in a cage.

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I think you're smart. First, $70K in debt is just not worth it, especially since you'll be a regular bedside nurse when you graduate. Second, until you've worked as a nurse, how do you know where you'd like to specialize? That's my main problem with these DE MSN programs--they expect non-nurses to make a decision on a specialty area in nursing. For some I'm sure it works out. For others, not so much.

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Specializes in Maternity, quality.
I think you're smart. First, $70K in debt is just not worth it, especially since you'll be a regular bedside nurse when you graduate. Second, until you've worked as a nurse, how do you know where you'd like to specialize? That's my main problem with these DE MSN programs--they expect non-nurses to make a decision on a specialty area in nursing. For some I'm sure it works out. For others, not so much.

The CNL programs are generalist programs as opposed to the direct-entry NP or CNS programs in which you have to choose a specialty. I chose to go the CNL route for that very reason... I wasn't ready to commit to a specialty without having any experience.

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Specializes in Critical Care.

I have decided to go the ADN route as well. My main goal is to get to the NP but I know that I will have a better skill set after some working experience. They have so many options for those who want to progress in this field. I have not decided on what specialty I want to go into as well so I figure I will just keep an open mind during the clinical rotations.

The less debt you have just means the more money you will have for yourself, owing 70K will take many opportunities away from you in the future.

Good Luck!

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The CNL programs are generalist programs as opposed to the direct-entry NP or CNS programs in which you have to choose a specialty. I chose to go the CNL route for that very reason... I wasn't ready to commit to a specialty without having any experience.

That would be great if every field had a CNL role. Right now the role itself is still being developed. If you end up really liking a field that doesn't develop a CNL role, you're still pretty limited.

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Specializes in Perioperative, ACU, Hospice.

(If someone's already mentioned this, forgive me!)

You're not crazy, you're a genius! Not only will you become an RN debt-free, but once you start working you'll find that many hospitals have tuition reimbursement plans that encourage nurses to further their education. You can work for a few years, find out what specialties interest you, and then pursue a Master's degree. It's a win-win!

Good Luck!:specs:

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