Published Aug 30, 2009
Dixielou36
9 Posts
Hi-
I am in the process of applying to numerous schools. I went to look at Azusa Pacific and they have a SCAN program. Basically, in 3 years you come out with a BSN, MSN as well as a clinical specialty. I already have a BA and a Master's in another area, that's why I am looking into a program like this. My friend told me that I may have a hard time finding a job after if i become a NP since I will have no experience. To be honest, I'm not sure what I plan on doing yet but I got confused. What if I solely decide to take a job what requires only a BSN or MSN for a while. Don't you think having the more degrees possible the more choices? Also, does anyone know about this APU program and has anyone gotten a job from it. I really liked the school a lot. Thanks.
PostOpPrincess, BSN, RN
2,211 Posts
Having more degrees will be great for you AFTER you have experience. Otherwise all of those degrees without the cllnical experience to back you up will be for naught. They will hire an ADN RN with 20 years of experience willing to matriculate to a higher degree rather than a "0" years of experience MSN prepared.
Getting clinical experience gives you the credibility behind those degrees; without it, you would be wasting your time.
Thanks for your input. It seems a bit easier to get into this program for some reason. Couldn't I just get a regular job just as a RN?
NinetyNine
22 Posts
I was in your same shoes - well, kinda. I had a Bachelor's in something not related to Nursing whatsoever and decided to get into an Accelerated Master's program. Although I will not have experience coming out of it, it will save me the time and hassle of having to go back to school when I do decide I want a higher degree. My opinion: get it now and save yourself the trouble.
KT17
63 Posts
I looked into APU's satellite program in San Diego (the EENAP program) and they offered a leave of absence of up to two years following the BSN portion prior to starting the MSN. I actually really liked this option because you could complete the BSN in 15 months, start working, and settle on a specialty before beginning the masters portion. Maybe this is available at the main campus as well?
NurseLani
3 Posts
Dixielou, I got into the program for Fall 2010, and yes it seems easier to get into the program once you have applied if you applied EARLY and have mainted a 3.0 and B's in your pre reqs, if you get lots of C's they will probably replace your spot. Here are some stats I found out for APU Scan....when I was applying there were a few spots open, but I applied in Spring 2008 for Fall 2010, so it was about 1.5 years ahead, and I maintained my 3.0 and As and Bs. Now I have called into the program APU scan and ENEP and they are booked and full until Spring 2011, for Fall 2012...and there were on average and still counting about 300-400 applicants applying to my cohort for a slot in Fall 2010. So dont underestimate that APU is an EASY program to get into ....it may seem like it because you can get early acceptance IF you maintain your grades, but its just as hard as any other program. Hope this helps...
Also, I have a BA in a non-science major and I highly recommend keeping your spot for APU scan until you hear from other schools, because APU is REALLY REALLY well known for their RN/BSN/MSN programs and they are rated one of the top Nursing Schools in CA. So, I'd do a little research before you decide to drop your spot. Let me know if I can help you, or if you are in fall 2010 cohort, hope to see you there.
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