BSN now or later?

Streamline2010 · Sep 14, 2010

I am due to graduate from my RN program this December. I was thinking about taking a few months off before starting my BSN so I could focus on starting a new job as an RN. Should I go ahead and take the time off of school, or is it better to jump right into a BSN? If so, does anyone have an online BSN program they would recommend?

Apply to the BSN program, because there are many new grads not finding jobs. There are few finding jobs straight out of nursing. If you find a job, then you can either start the BSN or cancel out. But don't assume that there is a job waiting. You'd be in much better circumstances if you have CNA or LPN experience, though, when applying for Nursing Jobs. Experience seems to be what they are looking for.

haleyb0324 · Sep 15, 2010

I don't have a lot of CNA/LPN experience, unfortunately. I am going to apply at the facility where I did my precepting and had all my clinical experience, though, so hopefully that will be a plus! I'm getting nervous hearing about all these new grads with no jobs! Any interview advice?

robyn226 · Sep 15, 2010

I graduated in May and started my BSN classes in August. I plan to take a year off b/t my BSN and Masters. I have not had any luck finding a job so far so at least with classes I feel as though I am not losing my nursing knowledge gained in RN school! I am attending Jacksonville State University's STEP program (RN-BSN) and am enjoying it so far. You have to pass boards before you can be accepted, but they do let you start with 3 outstanding pre-reqs...my only one is chemistry. It is completely online, no having to go to campus at all.

JJRN09 · Sep 30, 2010

I graduated in Dec of 2009 and intend to start school again in Jan. 2011. I felt I needed to take time to get used to actually being a nurse before I went back to school. I have been at my job for 6 months now and I feel like I will be ok to start school again in Jan. I think you should consider how much you personally handle and then make a decision based on that,

Hay, RN · Oct 6, 2010

i graduated in june and jumped right into a bsn (online) program in july. it is nothing like the curriculum in nursing school! the bsn program focuses on the professional aspect and how to be a good leader rather than recognizing the signs of postpartum hemorrhage or other aspects like that. i also started work one week before classes start. luckily for me, however, i had done 120 hours on the floor where i am working as an rn - as a student nurse for my practicum so i was fairly familiar with the nurses and had a routine down pat. i wish you the best luck in whichever path you choose!