Published Dec 31, 2006
Kensington
324 Posts
Hi everyone, and happy new year's eve! :)
I'm just wondering - how many of you have a back-up plan if you are not accepted into an accelerated or direct-entry program masters program? I just turned 30, and very much want to be a nurse practitioner, however, I have to be realistic about my chances of being accepted into one of the very competitive ABSN or MEPN-type programs. So, I'm thinking about other options like getting an ADN from a community college, and just was curious if anyone out there is thinking along the same lines? Although I know the road would be longer, I'd still get there in the end, right? :)
I'm also wondering what that road would look like -- ADN ---> BSN (online?) ---> NP masters program (how many years before applying after BSN?) - phew, that seems long! :uhoh21:
Anyway, just curious what y'all think and what is brewing in your mind!
K
traumaRUs, MSN, APRN
88 Articles; 21,268 Posts
I can't speak to my own back-up plans because being the impulsive lady that I am, I didn't have any???!!!
Anyway...if you do the ADN, then BSN online, then MSN - it's not too bad. I was an ADN grad for 8 years before going back (and I had been an LPN for 2 years also). However, once I got the ADN, I went for my BSN online (18 months), then an MSN online (1 years), then a post-MSN certificate - another 9 months. So - it was definitely doable.
Good luck.
I can't speak to my own back-up plans because being the impulsive lady that I am, I didn't have any???!!!Anyway...if you do the ADN, then BSN online, then MSN - it's not too bad. I was an ADN grad for 8 years before going back (and I had been an LPN for 2 years also). However, once I got the ADN, I went for my BSN online (18 months), then an MSN online (1 years), then a post-MSN certificate - another 9 months. So - it was definitely doable. Good luck.
Thank you, trauma! That really helps put things in perspective, and makes me feel better about my back-up plan!! :)
Hope it helps. Please take care.
Asherah, BSN, RN
786 Posts
I too have no back-up plan for the Fall 2007 term. I applied only to the UCLA MECN program (did my undergrad there, and I really enjoy the campus/environment, so it is my primary choice). If I don't get accepted I will try again next year but will also apply to at least the Yale & Columbia programs as well. As far as the ADN options around near me in Orange County (CA), they are all lottery-driven admissions, so its a ridiculous wait if you don't get chosen. Due to that, I chose not to apply to any of them.
Interesting - I'm just learning about the whole lottery system thing. It seems like if you have the minimum requirements, that you could be chosen over someone better qualified and in half the time that they've been waiting? I'm sure there is a better way to manage that process, but who am I to say!
Asherah - what specialty are you looking at in the UCLA MECN program? I looked into it briefly, but didn't see a FNP option. I'm interested in exploring other options as well, and have started looking into CNS programs.
Goodoldnurse
90 Posts
If you are not selected, can you start the core classes anyway? My friend was not selected, but has a jump start on the courses. And it makes her a better choice as a candidate. They know she can do the coursework and has the grades to prove it!
arciedee
610 Posts
My backup plan, had I not been accepted to my direct-entry program was to apply to a local accelerated BSN program that was just starting up as well as the local technical colleges for an ADN. The ADN was not my preferred way of doing it, but the price is right and I knew that I would be eligible to apply to the state university's NP program afterwards (they allow RNs with a BA/BS in something other than nursing to apply).
lc3
144 Posts
Well, my back -up plan is Drexel's ACE program (recently accepted! :) ), but I really hope I get into my top choice. It is a really competitive program.
I would say doing the ADN route wouldnt be that bad, except do you want to go straight through to BSN or MSN? Some schools would like you to have a couple years of experience before each step. Although, online programs might not.
lc