B.S. Business but wanting nursing now

HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD · May 24, 2011

One discouraging issue - science courses 'expire' after a period of time... generally from 5 to 7 years. Ugh, right? The specifics vary at different schools so you should check with admissions offices to see if that is the case for any of yours. Also, if your past grades are not so hot, you may want to re-take courses to bring up your GPA. Otherwise, courses obtained at an accredited institution should transfer.

I'm glad you are thinking of nursing as an option again. Best of Luck to you! Keep us posted on your progress.

NewSN13 · May 24, 2011

HouTx has good advice. Something for you to consider along with LVN vs. RN is traditional vs. accelerated. Many schools offer accelerated BSN programs for people with previous degrees. Most are right around a year and a half long from start to finish.

iPink, BSN, RN · May 24, 2011

You definitely want to check out accelerated nursing programs or ADN programs before deciding to jump into a CNA or LPN. I was about to do an LPN program, until an LPN encouraged me to pursue the RN by going the accelerated route. She even listed all the colleges in our area that was offering it. I thanked her for steering me in the right direction, because for me it didn't ultimately make sense to go further backwards to move forward. You may not want to be an RN, which is fine. LPNs are nurses too. But will point out that your sciences will run out by the time you go back for the RN. 5 years is usually the max. Good luck in your decision.

Crystal5308 · May 24, 2011

Thank you for the input, since it has been about 5 years since I took those classes I am guessing they are probably expired (I had all "A"s in them too)

My problem is that I cannot afford to not work full time. And going to school full time with my current work schedule wont work (I work a typical 9-5). I figured on getting my CNA first and looking for a night position, and also to ensure that it is something I will enjoy

I honestly want to do everything, lol, but that's not feasible.

I have been trying to find CNA training in my area but having a real tough time. Plus the fact that the training is all day time. Night positions are not easy to come by, especially in this economy.

So, to clarify, my BS in Business would count towards a BS in Nursing? As in, I wouldn't have to take any (or not many) "regular" courses?

Also, if anyone knows of some CNA training centers out here that aren't $1500 like the Red Cross, I would appreciate it.

ImThatGuy, BSN, RN · May 24, 2011

As a word of encouragement science courses don't always expire. My didn't. Clinton was in office when I took some, and I just started nursing (have a BS myself) last August. It's program specific. I know a woman in another nursing program who took her prereqs before she had kids. Now, her kids are in college with her, lol.

iPink, BSN, RN · May 25, 2011

I can't speak for all programs, but your B.S. in business won't count towards anything in nursing. I have a couple of MBAs in my class and it just helped them maintain a good work ethic. However, once you've settled on a program and have looked at their requirements, you may have the option to "test out" of some of those requirements, such as psych and sociology, unless you've already taken them. They usually last about 10 years.

I completely understand your reasoning and do think you should still work while pursing this goal.

Hopefully someone will chime in regarding CNA training.

fingerscrosses · May 25, 2011

We have quite a similar story. I too am 24, and graduated with my B.S. business in 09. I then worked in banking for a year before realizing I hated it. In that year my older sister got really sick, and after watching everything she went through, I decided that I wanted to go into nursing. Mind you that I barely had any prerques under my belt. So starting last summer I began the journey of science classes. Suprisingly enough I loved them, and just wrapped up my last prereque. It has been a very long and tedious year and a half, and I know this is the calm before the storm, but I am so happy to be finally starting nursing school. I would recommend to take some time, save up some money, and even try working in a Dr's office while you are researching and applying to nursing programs. I have been lucky enough to work at a surgeon's office where I get tons of patient contact. I have to do the not so great stuff like removing surgical drains and sutures, but I also get to watch and assist him in minor in-office procedures. It has really helped solidify that I am pursuing the right career. So hang in there...it's not impossible and it's not out of reach. While I wish I was one of those 20 year old juniors starting their clinicals, I think the experiences and maturity I have gained while figuring this all out will greatly help me and benefit my nursing career in the long run. Just think of how valuable you will be to a hospital or Dr's office when you have both a business degree and a nursing liscense. Good luck, and best wishes!!

fingerscrosses · May 25, 2011

Oh and yes, since you have a B.S. already you could have you BSN in two years max. To clarify if you wanted to get your BSN you would start straight into nursing courses, which would be the point a normal nursing undergrad would start beginning their junior year. Many schools offer a BSN as a second degree program (4 or 5 semesters tops and they usually run straight through summer so they are really quick to finish).

CareRx · May 25, 2011

Looks like a lot of us here are career changers.