Beyond nursing school

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Specializes in Pediatric Pulmonology and Allergy.

My plan as of now is to start taking pre-nursing courses, for however long that takes, and worry later about getting into nursing school. My question is, what happens if I don't get in? Let's say I spend two years racking up credits towards a BSN but don't manage to get into a school - where can I go from there? What are some other degrees or careers that I can consider that will require the same courses but don't involve nursing school? My ultimate goal is a masters in mental health nursing but that's a long way off and I have no idea what things will be like once I actually start going to school. I'm flexible and open to changing directions but want a field that involves helping people, particularly with mental health issues. I could go in to social work I guess if nursing doesn't work out. What are some other options/ideas?

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i was originally going for teaching and almost all of my courses crossed over towards my nursing degree. that may not be the direction you choose but it is an option. also many psychology and sociology courses are required so those are options as well...business management and health care management are still further options. no matter what path you choose getting an education no matter how versed it may be is still the best thing that you can do. Plus if you do get your nursing degree there are hundreds of directions that you can go from there...so cheer up and aim high.....

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Specializes in ICU.

I think if you just work hard then you will have no problem getting into a nursing program somewhere. It's not like NO ONE will take you--there is always a way. If you really want to be an RN, just do it and don't set yourself up for disappointment before you even start.

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Specializes in Pediatric Pulmonology and Allergy.

Thanks both of you for your informative replies. I'm not setting myself up for disappointment, just going in with my eyes open and knowing all my options before I begin, so I can have something else lined up if plan A doesn't work. The reason I'm worried about getting in to nursing school is because I don't want to spend my time in school fretting about getting perfect marks. I want to study and really know the information but not panic about getting A's. I feel that anxiety about grades will work against me in getting an education, OTOH from what I'm reading you need a very high GPA to get in to nursing school so I was concerned.

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Specializes in ICU.
Thanks both of you for your informative replies. I'm not setting myself up for disappointment, just going in with my eyes open and knowing all my options before I begin, so I can have something else lined up if plan A doesn't work. The reason I'm worried about getting in to nursing school is because I don't want to spend my time in school fretting about getting perfect marks. I want to study and really know the information but not panic about getting A's. I feel that anxiety about grades will work against me in getting an education, OTOH from what I'm reading you need a very high GPA to get in to nursing school so I was concerned.

Yeah, I think it is smart to think of other options in case something happens, but then again, it would probably be wise to focus all of your energy into your ultimate goal. I agree it will make things easier if you are not worried about grades, but if you are studying and working hard to understand the information--then the grades will show this automatically. Sometimes you just have to play the game. Most schools do require a high GPA, but like I said, if you are dedicated to learning (as you are), then your GPA will be high. That is my take, anyway.:p

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while i was taking pre-reqs i was also taking psychology classes. that was my backup plan. i would have graduated with a BA in psych this spring. but i started the nursing program this fall and have turned it into a double major situation.

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Specializes in med/surg, telemetry, IV therapy, mgmt.

Dental hygiene, Radiation technology, Nuclear Medicine technology, embalming and funeral science, Respiratory Therapy, Lab Technology are just a few. There are many, many others.

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My plan as of now is to start taking pre-nursing courses, for however long that takes, and worry later about getting into nursing school. My question is, what happens if I don't get in? Let's say I spend two years racking up credits towards a BSN but don't manage to get into a school - where can I go from there? What are some other degrees or careers that I can consider that will require the same courses but don't involve nursing school? My ultimate goal is a masters in mental health nursing but that's a long way off and I have no idea what things will be like once I actually start going to school. I'm flexible and open to changing directions but want a field that involves helping people, particularly with mental health issues. I could go in to social work I guess if nursing doesn't work out. What are some other options/ideas?

I asked myself the same question, what if....what other career path could I apply my prenursing credits to...I was also working towards a teaching degree and majored in English at the time...maybe I could become a Biology teacher if things won't work out for me.

Just work hard, get the highest grades possible in all those prenursing classes and you should be ok. I am doing the same :wink2:

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If you really want to be a nurse you'll be one. You're being realistic and that's great. Try to get the best GPA you can be willing to take the "scenic route" to get your BSN. My first choice is a BSN but I'm also applying to ADN and even LVN programs. The latter two will both get me there and anything I learn will only make getting my BSN easier and cheaper. Good Luck!

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