Associate Degree vs. BSN in Chicago

[ChangingMyLife]

Now let me preface this by saying that I'm sure this has been covered at some point in a previous thread, but I just don't have the time to search all the threads so please bear with me.

My info:

I am looking to enter into nursing as a second career and currently have a B.A. so I am short on all the science courses.

What I have read:

Now it has been suggested that those changing to a career in nursing are best served by attaining an associate degree in nursing so that they can get to the bedside as soon as possible. Then you can decide how you would like to proceed.

Does anyone else agree with this? If so, is it harder to get a job in a hospital in and around Chicago with an Associates degree as opposed to a BSN?

Originally, I was looking at getting my pre-reqs out of the way and was looking at West Suburban in Oak Park since they offered evening and weekend classes since I do have to work. Other threads regarding West Suburban have definitely changed my mind about this school.

Ultimately, I am looking for school suggestions as well depending on whether to proceed with the Associates or the BSN.

One other thing:

My sister is a new RN and has suggested I try to get a job in a hospital prior to going to school since the hospital will help pay for classes.

Any thoughts?

Thanks in advance for all the help.

Larry

[Sunkissd01]

Hi Larry,

I am currently in the nursing program at triton college and so far it has been awesome. The professors are great! You are not required to have a bach. degree to work as an rn but if you want to move up you will. Once you start in the hospital they might pay for you to get your bachs. The hours are a bit demanding and you have to take whatever they offer. We have been told that as the courses get harder it is almost impossible to work. Science courses are no longer valid 5 years after you have completed them and I would definitely suggest that you take all your prereqs before entering the program. Good luck!!!

[ChangingMyLife]

Thanks Sunkissd.

My biggest problem is that the Associate programs are only offered during the day. Because of this I am either going to apply for the evening and weekend BSN through West Suburban or the DePaul MSN. Giving up my job to go to school during the day is not an option.

I also plan on having all my pre-reqs completed before starting. I'm either going to get my science courses through Triton or Oakton to help save some money. I do have to meet with counselors to go over my transcripts from my first bachelor's degree to see what they will accept(in the case of the BSN at West Suburban).