BSN vs MSN in Brooklyn

[relativeuplift]

Hello. I am a 30 something year old currently looking into starting a new career path in the nursing field, after spending years working in the field of Social Services. I am looking for a bridge program preferably in Brooklyn, NY that is designed for folks that have a bachelors degree in a non-nursing field to pursue RN, BSN and MSN(potentially).

I wondered if there are any students or nurses in the Brooklyn or NYC area that might have any recommendations on reputable but affordable schools. I am new to the NY area, so Columbia and NYU are my only reference points, and they are both great schools, but also pretty darned expensive.

I also wondered what your thoughts are on obtaining a BSN versus going for my Masters degree in an accelerated program. I am a bit nervous about the investment of time and money, going all the way through to an MSN. Does it hold measurable value, Is it going to make me desirable to potential employers enough that the benefit outweighs the cost of the program?

I am trying to find a good starting point and I have SO many questions! I also will need to complete some of the prerequisites prior to starting the nursing program. I would very much appreciate any words of wisdom from those already in active pursuit, or in the field, what your experience has been. Thanks!

[bubbly79]

From what I understand, the market is saturated. Direct entry MSN program may not be the way to go. I would suggest a 2ND degree BSN or if you are feeling out the field with minimal investment, maybe a low cost LPN program. Then you can bridge and have some experience. I haven't heard about many programs, I've heard good things about downstate, various cuny programs (laguardia, bronx community, Lehman, hunter), and Columbia.

Maybe someone has more info. I'm starting an LPN program in September. I have an associates in human services.

Good luck.