BSN then PA?

[Mp31495]

Hello guys so I've been doing some research about becoming a PA and of course there's many prerequisites to take and most programs want you to have a couple of years of experience (I'm currently working as a CNA, so that's no problem). They require you to have your bachelors in science so my question is: later on, can I apply to a PA program after I get my BSN? I know it will take a while and I want to get my career set before I turn 27 the most (I'm 20 right now). I wish I would've done all of this earlier but I just wasted time in community college because I had no idea what i wanted to do. But now I know I'm 100% sure I want to become a nurse and later on a physicians assistant. I know there's no bridge BSN-PA programs BUT is it possible to become a PA later on? I know it will be very competitive and expensive but at the end it'll be worth it! Thanks!

[chare]

It's possible. I looked at this several years ago, and would have had to take several courses not included in my BSN.

If this is what you want to do, why not just take pre-med type courses?

Good luck in whatever route you choose.

[ORNurseCOS]

I'd steer you to the NP because it's lined up with the BSN but what you want can be done - just not in a seamless, timely manner IMO.

You would be basically putting the same amount of time in as a Doctor.

There will be at least 6-8 more classes you would have to take, off the top of my head several chemistry's just to apply to the program - then 2-3 years in the program after doing a 4 yr degree. It adds up and financially it would end up being expensive.

[txstudent6, BSN, RN]

It is possible! I've thought about being PA vs NP. NP is a shorter program but it is specific, meaning you will go to school to be a (ex)family nurse practitioner & if you don't like being a FNP then you have to go back to school for a different speciality. PA on the other hand is a longer program since it is more generalized, you can be a family PA then change your mind later if it's not for you. PA does require more prereqs (atleast 4 more science courses) so that's why I've been leaning towards NP. They both basically have the same duties as in able to see patients on their own & prescribe meds. Good luck!

[CraigB-RN, MSN, RN]

Yes and in some cases I recomend it. But it is a complicated process to choose.

You will need more classes than you will get in your BSN program. You have to look at the area you want to work, and things like how old yo are and if you can afford to not work for 2 years of grad school and the accumulative debt you will incure. It is easier for a PA to switch from specialty to specialty than it is for an NP in most cases.

You can PM me if you have specific questions. I'm clinical faculty in a PA program.

If you have a family, lots of debt already and need to work, then NP school might be the way to go. The same 2 years, part time, and you can work as you go. You can't work and go to PA school.