Best path to RN

Nursing Students Pre-Nursing

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Hi all! I'm a student graduating in May with a BS in Health Science. I want to become an RN, but I can't figure out the best path. Right now I feel as though my options are

1. Accelerated second degree BSN programs

2. ADN program at a community college or vocational school.

However, I just spent a lot of money and hard work in a bacgelors program, and Id really like to get into the field quickly. I'm considering becoming a CNA for a year or so and then applying to nursing school. Does anyone have advice on what to do? I'm at a loss of how best to get to where I want to be. Any help is much appreciated!

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Are you wanting to work or continue education? I would suggest CNA work and get your feet wet and then further you education at a community college... That is what most of my nurse friends have done and suggest to me as well as a hopeful new LPN student. Good luck!

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seems like you have several options. How was your undergrad GPA for the bs in health science?

i think you may want to look at schools you're interested in and what previous cohorts average GPA was for applying to get a feel.

The cheaper pathway would be adn at a community college then an RN to BSN program. That would be 2+ 2 years total.

i think the accelerated BSN program is maybe faster but probably more expensive.

depending in your GPA you could do masters entry program for nursing if you were looking to specialize or do advanced practice in nursing..

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Accelerated BSN programs are often more expensive, but you have to weigh the pros and cons. Is it worth it to you to pay the extra to get through quicker? Have you successfully completed accelerated courses in the past? Do you need to work to pay for schooling/expenses or are you being supported (many accelerated programs ask that you not work, since the course load is so intense)?

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Go for the BSN!! It might be more expensive, but it should get you to your end goal of RN status a bit quicker. Not to mention, then you'll have your Bachelors (again) in nursing! I'm from the Midwest, and many jobs postings say "BNS preferred" or even "BNS only" - just something to think about.

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You may be able to get into a Masters program with your BS in health science. I know some schools in my area offer that... BSN in related field to MSN, NP or CNS

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