Best route for getting into nursing?

[stevenk]

I am currently an incoming Junior at the University of Michigan studying chemistry. After doing some shadowing in the hospital I have realized I would love to pursue a career in nursing, but the problem is that I am unsure of how to get there from here. I currently hold a full scholarship at this school, but transferring to the nursing program would mean I would start as a sophomore, if I was to be accepted at the end of my Junior year, so basically a year from now. Then again I hear that the program only accepts about 30 students annually, so I don't hold very high hopes for that. My parents want me to finish my undergrad here at UM as I am half way done at no cost, but I am worried about the time commitment, this will set me back another two years. I have looked at my options after graduations in regards to pursuing nursing, which include the accelerated nursing programs or starting from LPN. I dread the idea of starting from the beginning after 4 years of heavy undergrad. I hear that the admission to the accelerated programs are severally cut throat, which worries me that I may need to start at an LPN. What is my best option at the given moment? Do I finish my degree here at UM and attempt to get into an accelerated program or either start from scratch, or transfer and pursue nursing now. Thank you in advance for any advice, or comments.

[203bravo, MSN, APRN]

Welcome to what we call adulthood :)

This is the decision that you must live with for the rest of your life --- your parents can certainly have an opinion, but in the end you must make the decision. However, the reality of possible losing some of your financial aide and finding yourself suddenly paying for your own education can be a motivator.

You've only listed 2 options (if you continue with your current degree track) LVN or ABSN.. please understand that you could also go back to a traditional BSN program and if you consider doing that you could start taking some of those prereqs now so that you would only have to take the core nursing courses when you return.. You certainly don't have to start back at the freshman level and retake your basic education courses (English, literature, math, etc etc) so it should only take you 2 years to get that BSN if you do the traditional track.

Best of luck :)

[babeinboots, MSN, NP, CNM]

You may want to look into an Entry Level Master's Program. I'm not sure if there are any programs in your area but definitely look into it.

Its a great way to get into nursing post-bachelors without "starting over." Theses programs are usually 2 years; you will receive a master's in nursing and will be eligible to sit for the NCLEX at the end of the program and become an RN.

Also most accelerated BSN programs are only 12-22 months long once pre-reqs are completed. The time will pass whether you're in a nursing program or not...

Do your research and good luck!

[queserasera, RN]

Finish your undergrad and then look into entry to practice master's programs OR second bachelors programs. I know University of Maryland has a entry-to-practice Master's option for those that already hold an undergrad, I am sure other schools have similar programs! Good luck!