applying for MSN without RN working experience???

LoveThisNurse · Jul 23, 2009

I just did! I completed my BSN in June 2009 and I'm currently studying for boards. I talked with an admission counselor and a couple of years ago they required at least one year experience. Now, since there there a shortage of nurses who are advancing their degrees (including nurse educator, which I am going for) now, they advise that you work while in the program to gain experience.

elkpark · Jul 23, 2009

It depends on the school -- some require some specific minimum amount of clinical experience, some don't.

There's a long thread here about becoming an NP (or other advanced practice nurse) without any clinical experience -- you may want to find and review that if you are interested in members' opinions and experiences with that.

nurse1219 · Aug 2, 2009

which school is this?

kkcrank · Aug 2, 2009

Depends. I graduated May 2009, and was accepted into The Ohio State University's AHNP program for Sept 2009. They don't require RN working experience.

MilesRN, BSN, MSN, DNP · Aug 2, 2009

Certainly there are programs that permit student entry without experience. However, I would highly recommend clinical practice experience while working on the Master's degree. This will prove invaluable in the your future nursing practice especially if you chose a clinical track such as the NP or CNS. Good luck

nurse1219 · Aug 2, 2009

if you dont mind me asking what kind of student were you? Were your grades exceptionally good? Do you have to be a top student to get into these programs?

Also does anyone know of any MSN program that does not require experience around the PA, NJ, NY, DE,MD,VA area?

THANK YOU

MilesRN, BSN, MSN, DNP · Aug 3, 2009

My undergraduate grades were average to above average (average is 3.0). In my BSN program I graduated Magna Cum Laude. This some where between 3.6 to 3.7. Generally, for most master's programs they like you to have a gpa of 3.0 in your bachelors or undergraduate degree. You do not have to be an outstanding student to be accepted. Some require the GRE or MAT, but many do not expectially if you bachelor's gpa is around 3.0. Look at the program entrance requirements it will highlight what you must have to be accepted. Walden University and St. Joseph's College (http://www.sjcme.edu) has the RN to MSN programs. Hope this help. Thanks for the questions

Mexarican · Aug 6, 2009

I also just graduated with my BSN in May,09. I applied this past spring for Fall entry in the FNP program at my school and was accepted. But I will be working fulltime in the PICU I currently work at as my program will take three years part-time. So when it's all said and done i will have 3 years PICU experience as an RN and I definately will be staying in Peds. I just might add a certificate in a specialty later on if i feel like i need it. I say go for it! I do recommend working as an RN while you attend school so you can supplement your graduate education with real world experience. Every lil bit helps!

Mex

Encyfency · Aug 8, 2009

Hi

I graduated last yr with BSN and and now have completed one semester of MSN. I would say go for it! It is not very common but this is the only way to find out if it doable : ) I also work part time so that helps in clinical application.

Good Luck!

nurse1219 · Aug 9, 2009

where are you doing your MSN?

good for you!

thanks:up:

MilesRN, BSN, MSN, DNP · Aug 9, 2009

Greetings, I already have a Master's Degree in Nursing. At present, I have started course work at an online University with hopes of completing the PhD in Nursing. Thanks