Hello everyone,
I had a question regarding the associates and the bachelor's degree in nursing. Currently I am active duty Air Force, but plan on getting out soon and am hoping to change my career to nursing. I have a degree in logistics management and organizational management, so going back to school is going to be pretty much coming out of pocket ( as far as living expenses go, because my schooling should be covered by my GI bill) and have been hoping to weigh the benefits over having an associates over a bachelors program in nursing.
I understand that most employers prefer a bachelors, but since the RN title is obtained from both degrees ( both take the same nclex, both participate in similar coursework) I was wondering which would be more beneficial to me, as someone who already holds a couple degrees under his belt. From what I understand, the bachelors encompasses more business and liberal arts coursework,correct?I understand there are accelerated programs, but unfortunately, staying in one area for more than a year is going to be a problem for me ( my wife is still Active duty) so given my time constraints it would be difficult for me to complete a 18 month accelerated program. My overall goal is to eventually apply to become a Nurse Practitioner, but from what I have read I can apply with any degree as long as I'm an RN. I also understand that employment varies inbetween areas, but I am hoping to come back to Texas to be a nurse.
So my question to you, allnurses.com, is which degree from your experience would be a better option for me? Anyways, thanks in advance for all of your responses and I am looking forward to reading all of your replies. This website has been a great resource for me!