Completing RN-BSN program

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I've been out of nursing school for almost 5 yrs now and have worked at the same place my whole career. I haven't wanted to go back because the BSN doesn't guarantee extra pay where I work or in the state I live. Even the nearby state doesn't. There are so many classes I have to take towards a BSN before I can even apply for the program. I have no desire to be in management and I'm not wanting to progress to a MSN or become an NP. It was brought to my attention that I should be thinking towards the years coming ahead where I may not be able to do floor nursing anymore. It's a lot to think about and wondering if it's worth all the time and money. I've looked at chamberlain college of nursing but it looks sketchy to me and the board of nursing in Alabama is very strict on what they accept. I've asked them about it and they can't give me an answer either way. Most of my classmates who have went back have went to traditional universities to get their BSN. So that's why I'm unsure.

Specializes in NICU, ICU, PICU, Academia.

You might look at Online University | Accredited Online College Degrees | WGU . Fully accredited, 100% online, NLN Center of Excellence and competency-based (meaning, if you know it- show it and move on). 1:1 mentoring support as well.

Specializes in Cardio-Pulmonary; Med-Surg; Private Duty.

Also, since you already have your RN license, it doesn't matter what the BON accepts... you're an RN already and don't have to take the NCLEX again or get a "new" license.

This is simply a college degree to put more letters behind your name on a resume.

Also, since you already have your RN license, it doesn't matter what the BON accepts... you're an RN already and don't have to take the NCLEX again or get a "new" license. This is simply a college degree to put more letters behind your name on a resume.

I didn't think of it that way, thanks. I'm looking at Chamberlain, it's expensive but it seems like the better option. It was already gonna cost me a lot of money if I took all the prerequisites online that I needed if I used the traditional online RN-BSN program.

Specializes in Hospice.

Have you looked at colleges near you? I was very pleasantly surprised to find an accredited, well organized, affordable RN to BSN at a private college near me.

Initially I didn't even look into the program because I just assumed that since it was a private college, it would be too expensive. After investigating lots of options, it actually was the most affordable option for me. Books were included in the cost, one night a week class specifically designed for the working nurse.

Also, see if your employer offers any tuition reimbursement or has an agreements for reduced tuition with any colleges.

Many employers are requiring BSN's so even if you ever wanted to pursue a different floor nursing job, this may be beneficial.

Good luck!

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