BS+RN+??=MSN?

Editorial Team / Admin · Apr 5, 2016

There are RN-MSN programs that don't require a BSN to apply. Some of them will award a BSN during the coursework; others don't. The primary difference is the number of courses required. Because I already had a BSN when I applied for my MSN, I was able to skip about 4 or 5 classes that those without a BSN had to complete.

twozer0, NP · Apr 5, 2016

Hi everyone,
I have BS in Microbiology and I am in the process of completing an ADN (about half way done). Anyways is there a quick way to become an NP? Can I skip the BSN since I have a BS+ADN?
Anything helps!
Thanks!
Pete

Pete,

Please do not do yourself into disservice by trying to jump to the end. While the job roles are different between RN and NP, the experience gained as an RN will only make your transition easier. I say this too because you might end up hating healthcare in general and really whats the point of going down the rabbit hole if you didn't want to be there in the first place. Don't rush it, enjoy it, see where your niche is and when you're informed, experienced, and ready to perform, take the blue pill.

You will still need to do an MSN program, it will be a lot of work. As Rose_Queen states, there are programs that exist to do RN to MSN. I still think you should be a nurse for a while even before you pull the trigger on program like that. I get that everyone these days wants to be the finial on the cake but starting on the first layer and working your way up would be a lot more beneficial. Good luck on your journey whatever you decide.

loriangel14, RN · Apr 5, 2016

You really need to be a good experienced nurse before you can be an effective NP.

KatieMI, BSN, MSN, RN · Apr 5, 2016

Unfortunately, even unrelated PhD + ASN =/= BSN, let alone MSN.

Although, when you shop around for your BSN or direct MSN degree, try a brick-and-mortar program take a look on your transcripts. Both require quite a few credits of electives and your Bachelor's very well may cover them, saving you some trouble and a little chunk of money. online programs have a notorious tendency to disregard such credits.

HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD · Apr 5, 2016

Oh my. This seems to be a perennial issue. 1) A BSN curriculum is focused on the core knowledge for the profession of nursing. It is not the same as a BS in Micro or Biology. It's like saying that an architect should be equivalent to a structural engineer.... after all, they both build things, right??? 2) A Nurse Practitioner is a nurse who must function at a very high level in order to function safely in an autonomous role. This cannot be done without requisite clinical experience - as a nurse. Realistically, no employer is going to entrust patient care to a newbie, inexperienced NP.

I think it's great that there are still hordes of people who think that Nursing is the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow... but they also need to appreciate the work that is required to become a nurse & have respect for the skills and knowledge that are characterize our profession.

Boomer MS, RN · Apr 5, 2016

Oh my. This seems to be a perennial issue. 1) A BSN curriculum is focused on the core knowledge for the profession of nursing. It is not the same as a BS in Micro or Biology. It's like saying that an architect should be equivalent to a structural engineer.... after all, they both build things, right??? 2) A Nurse Practitioner is a nurse who must function at a very high level in order to function safely in an autonomous role. This cannot be done without requisite clinical experience - as a nurse. Realistically, no employer is going to entrust patient care to a newbie, inexperienced NP.
I think it's great that there are still hordes of people who think that Nursing is the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow... but they also need to appreciate the work that is required to become a nurse & have respect for the skills and knowledge that are characterize our profession.

I think these comments are very wise. An advanced practice role is not the same as an RN. Adequate RN experience can only enhance and benefit an NP, CRNA, CNM or CNS. I think more than two years are needed as an RN before moving on to the advanced role, but that is only my opinion. And there are no shortcuts to be well prepared in any role, staff nurse or advanced practice. Good programs are hard. All doable though with time and effort. It is worth it to be well prepared.

Get2theChoppa · Apr 5, 2016

You really need to be a good experienced nurse before you can be an effective NP.

Being in an NP program, I disagree. BSN didn't prepare, RN experience didn't prepare, clinical experience isn't preparing enough. Only NP work experience is going to prepare.

Farawyn · Apr 5, 2016

Anecdotally, the best NPs I know were already experienced RNs.

As more NPs go "straight through", I guess we shall see.

allnurses Guide · Apr 5, 2016

Hi everyone,
I have BS in Microbiology and I am in the process of completing an ADN (about half way done). Anyways is there a quick way to become an NP? Can I skip the BSN since I have a BS+ADN?
Anything helps!
Pete

There are some programs out there that will bridge you from a RN to a MSN without the BSN. I attended one such program. Like you, I had a BS in another medical discipline. Admission standards are very high for these programs and you will work your butt off. It is not quick, and it is not easy. It may save a little time. Here are some caveats:

You may not be able to work in certain hospitals without a BSN, even if you have your MSN. It's not an issue for me because I work outpatient.

You may not be able to work in a school. In my state a BSN is required, even if you have your NP or DNP. Again, not an issue if you don't want to work in that environment.

Many people do very well with little or no nursing experience. If you can get some, it will only enhance your knowledge base. If not, it doesn't mean you'll fail as an NP. Look at some reputable programs and find out what their admission criteria are. Stay away from programs who will admit anyone who can pay.

elkpark · Apr 6, 2016

Anecdotally, the best NPs I know were already experienced RNs.
As more NPs go "straight through", I guess we shall see.

Direct entry programs have been around for ~30 yrs. The first direct entry advanced practice nurses are probably close to retiring by now. How long is it going to take to "see" whether they (as a group) are successful or not?

kakamegamama · Apr 6, 2016

Oh my. This seems to be a perennial issue. 1) A BSN curriculum is focused on the core knowledge for the profession of nursing. It is not the same as a BS in Micro or Biology. It's like saying that an architect should be equivalent to a structural engineer.... after all, they both build things, right??? 2) A Nurse Practitioner is a nurse who must function at a very high level in order to function safely in an autonomous role. This cannot be done without requisite clinical experience - as a nurse. Realistically, no employer is going to entrust patient care to a newbie, inexperienced NP.
I think it's great that there are still hordes of people who think that Nursing is the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow... but they also need to appreciate the work that is required to become a nurse & have respect for the skills and knowledge that are characterize our profession.

YES!!!!

I have been a NP for 3 years, and am just now really getting the opportunity to practice consistently as one, which makes it much easier for ongoing learning and skill development. I don't practice independently, and don't want to. I practice in a clinic with 2 physicians and at least one other NP. I can't imagine doing any of this without the years of bedside nursing I have under my belt, so to speak, nor without the 10 years of teaching students, nor the years of in the trenches/bush/whatever you want to call it in locations where care was delivered under a tree and other rustic (to put it kindly) locations. ALL of these experiences/education came together to teach me and prepare me for where I am today.