Competitiveness of MSN programs

HeartRN2008 · Aug 19, 2010

Does anyone know if admission to MSN programs (already having a BSN) are as competitive as direct entry (for those who are not already nurses) programs? I can tell from lurking on this site that admissions to the direct entry programs tend to be EXTREMELY competitve- very high GPA's/GRE's, from folks who often have bachelor's degrees in difficult majors or from very well known schools. I graduated with my BSN from a lesser known, smaller school, with a good (but not stellar) GPA, and again, good, but not stellar, GRE's. However, I do have 2 years of acute care nursing experience. Any thoughts???

pink_zebra · Sep 7, 2010

heartRN, i think it would definitely be worth it to apply!

i am entering one of those direct-entry programs...actually, my first day is tomorrow! while my degree is in what many consider a "tough" field of study (Biotechnology), the school i graduated from is a small, private liberal arts school on the north shore of mass. so anything is possible i guess!

i do agree that the GPA/GREs have to be somewhat high. i was told at the information sessions that they recommend at least 1000 combined GRE and at least a B in all pre-req courses, which vary by program.

feel free to PM me if you have any qs!

HeartRN2008 · Sep 8, 2010

Congratulations, pinkzebra! That's fantastic about starting your direct-entry program- best of luck to you!!! If you have the time (starting school, you may not!) it would be great if you could PM me your stats and school + program of choice, or whatever info. you are comfortable giving :) I can't PM yet! BTW, I also attended college outside of Boston- it's tough for me to consider leaving New England!!! Thanks, and again- good luck!