Big Decision

IMustBeCrazy · Apr 20, 2004

Experience in the field > all, so go for the 2 year RN program. When the 4 yr BSRN's graduate, you have 2 years of highly relevant experience plus your license, they will just be starting.

With the gazillion different options of going ADRN -> BSRN there is no reason why you can't revisit that option in the future if you want to progress. And, the pay scales in *most* areas don't differentiate between the two degrees. An RN is an RN. Plus, most employers will pick up that part or all of that tab as a part of employer-sponsored continuing education programs. Why do it on your own dime if you can take advantage of that?

The only thing that you are missing is the 2 extra years of 'general ed' which most people complain about taking (World History from 1600-1700? Theology? Survey of Weather???) Yes, I know that some people really get into those kinds of classes. But other than taking a chunk out of your pocketbook, what relevance do they really have in day to day life? The only response I've ever gotten from 4-yr universities is that they "make you a more rounded person". They also make more money by having you in school longer, so I doubt your 'well-rounded' education is a real motivation for universities.

Like many here, I already have a 4 yr degree (in another field). IMO, the 'extra' classes I took were a waste of my time, motivation and money.

Good Luck!

ARmickie · Apr 21, 2004

Well, IMHO it's not too early to be making a decision, as schools are getting very competitive. I have been in somewhat of the same boat as you are now. I was planning on attending a CC near my home that only offers the LPN program, although they are beginning an RN program soon. I was torn between the LPN program and getting a two year AD in gen ed that I'll need for the RN programs elsewhere.

I took the entrance exams and a school offical suggested I go for the LPN program based on scores. I took the NET last weekend, and I'm waiting for the results. I decided that if God wanted me in that program, I'd make it. If not, I'm not giving up; instead, I'll just take the gen ed requirements for the RN program. :) I figure I've got it covered that way!

The biggest bonus I can see about going the LPN route is this: If something should happen to my family and I need to go back to work, I'll be able to actually work as an LPN in two years. On the other hand, if I'm studying gen ed and need to go to work in two years, I'm probably going to be forced to take a position outside healthcare, which is where I really want to be.

I realize there are more opportunities for RN's. But, I also know that with the economy at it's present state, I may very well need to re-enter the workforce before my educational goals are fully achieved.

#1rnstudent · Apr 21, 2004

I am a prospective student in Hamilton, Ontario and i could really use the help of students already enrolled in Nursing.
Ok here is my question Should I take the 2 year practical nursing, or go for the 4 year RN course. What are the differnces you see in the programs you are in compared to the other. I plan on enrolling to Mohawk college (which offers both) in September of 2005 giving me lots of time to make the right decision and to take the proper prep courses
So what Program are you enrolled in where are you taking it and what advice can you give me in helping me make my decision

I see you are in Ontario, Canada. They only programs students can apply for in Ontario are either RPN or RN (B.Sc.N.). I do not know of any upgrade programs from RPN to RN in Ontario. If you want to be a nurse, but pay college fees and only spend 2 years in school then I'd go for RPN. (BTW it is really looking appealing to me right now.) But if you have unlimited funds or don't mind being in debt for a while, go for the RN.

I picked the RN because I want to be done school and NOT go back. I don't mind lifelong learning that nursing will bring, I just don't want to have to go back to being a full-time student when I finish. RN programs seem to have a lot of theory in them and less hands-on practice, however I have only seen 2 terms so far. Hopefully we will get more hands on stuff in the future. Most of my friends at other schools in Ontario experience the same kinds of things. I hear lots of nice things about Mohawk. Have a look at the course descriptions of the RN program and see if you think you would do okay at them. If you start in RN but decide you wanna switch to RPN then that is ok. It just 'might' be harder to switch from RPN to RN program, depending on the intake at the college in a given year, and other factors. :)