CMA to RN

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Hi :)

Does anyone know if you can become a CMA and then go right into the RN program if you already completed all your pre-reqs?

I originally planned on doing the ADN program, but I didnt get in because of the TEAS. Im ready to start working and I would have to wait even longer to get in the program. So it was suggested that I do the medical assisting and then go for my RN. Is this a good idea? Or should I wait for the next term to reapply or try the LPN to RN?

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Specializes in Hematology/Oncology.

Honestly based on my opinion and experience w/ this: NO...you cannot go thru CMA to RN. I'm a CMA and none of the courses I took went towards my pre-req courses for RN. Maybe because the schools and the courses aren't equivalent or accredited to one another (I'm not sure). I had to retake all Bio's etc. Don't waste ur time, Its best to go thru LPN or straight to RN...Good Luck in whatever u decide to do!

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If your goal is to be an RN then don't do the MA program. The medical courses that you take in the MA program do not count towards your RN because they are totally different healthcare fields and courses of study. The only courses that you take that will be counted will be the science, math, and english classes.

Most schools do have a program for LPN to RN and if you go that route then those classes will count toward your nursing degree.

I am a CMA and I learned this the hard way. I didn't have to take many pre-reqs but none of my med classes counted.

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I was thinking since I completed all my nursing pre-reqs, except Micro for now, that I could just apply to the program. I was going to try to work for a year with the MA and then apply. I thought it was only a problem if you didn't have any of your pre-reqs done.

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

CMA/RMA is more of a medical model. Just like PA's are medical model.

CNA, RN, LPN, NP/APN are the nursing model of care and treatment. While there is some overlap, the theory and philosophy are very different.

Did you complete your pre-requisite courses at the MA school? Was this an accredited community college or a for-profit private trade school? If the courses were not completed at an accredited college or university you will likely not get credit for them when applying to a nursing program. Something to check out to help you make the best decision for your career.

Also the only way you can do LPN to RN is if you are currently a licensed LPN. Other certifications do not count for LPN to RN bridge programs.

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I was thinking since I completed all my nursing pre-reqs, except Micro for now, that I could just apply to the program. I was going to try to work for a year with the MA and then apply. I thought it was only a problem if you didn't have any of your pre-reqs done.

The pre-reqs will all count for both programs if they are the same. So you could apply to the RN program and do the MA program between now and then. The problem is when you take the MA classes (lab procedures, exam room procedures, pharmacology, symptomatology, and what not) they will not count at all for RN classes.

I have an associates degree in medical assisting but none of the classes I took except for the pre-req's count to the nursing program. If you are going to take classes it is better to get licsensed as an LPN then do the bridge program so you won't waste your time.

If you are wanting to work now maybe you could take CNA classes. That is what most students do and it is a requirement at my school for RN.

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I've been doing my ADN courses at the CC here. I haven't changed my major or applied to the MA program. I wanted to see if this was an option first.

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The pre-reqs will all count for both programs if they are the same. So you could apply to the RN program and do the MA program between now and then. The problem is when you take the MA classes (lab procedures, exam room procedures, pharmacology, symptomatology, and what not) they will not count at all for RN classes.

I have an associates degree in medical assisting but none of the classes I took except for the pre-req's count to the nursing program. If you are going to take classes it is better to get licsensed as an LPN then do the bridge program so you won't waste your time.

If you are wanting to work now maybe you could take CNA classes. That is what most students do and it is a requirement at my school for RN.

Oh I know the MA classes wont count towards the RN classes. I was getting the idea from reading other similiar questions on here that all the nursing pre-reqs would have to be taken over. I would change my mind if that would happen.

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