As a new nurse (ASN), age 56, is it worth it to get BSN??

[Hazel1959]

I am a new RN, without a job, though I am looking all the time, and I am 56 years old. Many years ago when I first started my pre-nursing classes, and worked as a CNA, getting a job as a nurse was easy. Now most of the hospitals in this area want you to have a BSN, or proof that you are enrolled in a BSN program. I might note that I have only had one job offer in a year and 10 months of being an RN. I did not remain there long, (4 months). My question is, at age 56 and with lots of student debt from the first degree, would it be worth it to go for the BSN?? That would mean more debt with no guarantee of a job. Thanks for any advice!!

[gibsongirl]

Tough to get around when you are asked for graduation year. Mine was 1982.

[gibsongirl]

Tough to get around when you are asked for graduation year. Mine was 1982.

[TNnursejane, BSN, RN]

Tough to get around when you are asked for graduation year. Mine was 1982.

Very true! I actually graduated in '81 but didn't get my license until March '83. I'm just glad I got my BSN, because I'd still be working the floors. My knees can't handle it anymore!

[NurseGirl525, ASN, RN]

I don't disagree that the BSN would be beneficial, but it's not going to help her if she has no experience. She's already a RN. If she just focuses on the BSN and not get a job, the money will be wasted.

She is almost a year out from graduation and left a job after a couple of months. It was her only job. She's thinking it's her age as to why she is not getting a job and that having a BSN will automatically get her a job. I don't think that is the reason.

Now ow if she currently had a job say in home health and wanted to get into the hospital, would that be a good idea? Definitely. I just feel like there is a bigger issue at play whether it's her resume or the way she interviews. Plus the fact she has already left a job. Employers will question that and she needs a good answer for it.