Applying to the nurse practitioner program right after BSN

I actually applied to NP school before I was done with my nursing program. I did a general masters program and before I was even done, I sent in my application to NP school, which was very welcomed by the NP program. I worked for 3.5 years as an RN before becoming an NP. Experience is always a plus. The more experience you have, the better it is for you in the long run. I would say go ahead and apply and then you can start NP school after you get your RN license.

My advice: apply, get in, and either a) defer at least a year to get peds experience, or b) do your MSN piece by piece as you get experience. Pediatrics is a specialty--not adult medicine in miniature. When I was getting my ACPNP, every single day of my past nursing experience (4 years) was valuable. Yes, it's sometimes frustrating to practice bedside nursing when you know you definitely want to become an NP and do it as soon as possible. HOWEVER, you will have plenty of time to practice as an NP, and you have a great opportunity now to get peds experience and make sure you're choosing the right specialty.

Good luck!

Hi,

I wanted to mention that Vanderbilt U. accepts those w/o experience into primary care programs (peds/family)

Hmm, I'm thinking about doing the same thing, OP. I'm working on a BSN in a second degree program and I really want to get all my schooling done now. I never thought about applying before finishing school (I'm nearly a senior) but that's an idea.... I already know I want to be an FNP. My question is, would it be too much to adjust to being a new RN (assuming you work while in school) while starting a grad program? Seems like it could be a lot to handle. Are you planning on working as a nurse and go to grad school too?