BSN or MSN? Which path to take?

[Margotrita]

I am in the process of returning to school to prepare for a career change. I want to be a nurse and am trying to weigh the pro's and con's of pursuing a BSN vs a MSN. I have BSW and MSW degrees from the 1990's.

I am very interested in the ABSN programs, as I am late 40's and want to finish fairly quickly and receive credit for courses already taken. I am currently completing pre req's for a local ABSN program and plan to apply for August 2014. However, I have had several people suggest to me to pursue a masters degree, rather than bachelor's. Thoughts? Advice? Share your experiences?

Thank you in advance!

[PMFB-RN, RN]

I suggest the ABSN. The direct entry MSN programs are much more expensive. Most importantly, at least in my area, DE MSN grads have a harder time find jobs. Some local health system won't even consider them for employment as new grads. I am sure it's not that way everywhere.