BSN School Relevant?

[Sugamama]

I am currently working towards my ultimate goal of becoming a CRNA. I originally completed a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Psychology before immediately obtaining my Associate's Degree in Nursing. Since then I have worked on the Surgical floor for a year, in a Clinic for a few months, PACU for 2.5 years, and just recently began working in the Intensive Care Unit (for the sole purpose of getting experience required for most CRNA programs.) My undergraduate GPA was a mere 2.8, while my ADN GPA was a 3.0. Most, but not all, CRNA programs that I have looked into require a BSN. Since my GPA thusfar is not going to cut it for admissions for the few schools that will accept a bachelor's degree in another science, I am planning on getting my BSN through an online RN-BSN program. My question is this: does it really matter from what school I get my BSN? I want to be as marketable as possible so that I have my choice of programs, and I want to make certain that I choose an online program wisely. Thank you for reading! (Sorry I am so verbose...)

~SM

[Moogie]

I think your plan is sound. Doing well in a BSN program will demonstrate your ability to handle the rigors of graduate school and should help counteract your previous undergraduate record.

There are many excellent options for online RN to BSN programs. Many brick-and-mortar schools have online components so you can complete your BSN even if you don't live in the area. Usually, the brick-and-mortar schools are less expensive than proprietary schools, which might be an important consideration so that you can avoid racking up too much student debt.

Whatever you choose, make sure that your program is accredited by the CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education) or the NLNAC (National League for Nursing Accrediting Center). The CCNE accredits most BSN programs (regardless of whether they're entry-level programs, accelerated BSN, or RN to BSN) but some are accredited by both or just by the NLNAC. Most graduate programs only consider applicants who have graduated from accredited schools, so if you want to be competitive in terms of getting into the CRNA program you want, make sure you go to an accredited school. Here is a link to the CCNE; you can look up programs by state to see which are accredited or have taken the steps to become accredited:

http://www.aacn.nche.edu/accreditation/

Hope this helps! And, welcome to AllNurses!

[Popwhizbangz, LPN]

I don't have an answer, but perhaps you could ask around at the programs you want to apply to - a program's admissions office may offer some tips, say, if you set up informational interview. Schools also often have scheduled open houses with information sessions.

[Kitesurfing bum]

Speaking with no direct experience, I think as long as you get your BSN from an accredited school it doesn't matter what school it is. I would assume admissions would just tick the BSN box then really look at experience, references, performance, etc.

[LuxCalidaNP]

Best if it's from a larger uni/academic medical center, but what they really want is ICU/CCU experience as an RN at one of these centers...

[Sugamama]

Thanks!