decided what i want to be when i grow up.

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I'm sitting @ home holding my now 3 mos old son who spent the 1st 2 months of his life in the nicu. I'm a 27 yr old stay @ home mom of 2 with a GED. Can someone tell me what would be my 1st step to becoming a NICU nurse. I'm sure it's a long process but I'd like to start working as soon as possible. What nursing position should I go for 1st? Are the online degree's as good as any? Any other information would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance for any & all suggestions

Jill

Well, Since you have a GED, I suggest you apply to a community college and start tatking a few courses there.There are many community colleges who offer Nursing programs.I don't know where you live, so I cannot recommend any schools.It would be best if you go for a 2 yr program since you have a family.You can always continue to get a BSN.I hear it takes about 1-1.5 years to obtain one after you receive a ADN.Ithink the hospital provides training inorder to specialize in a particular unit once you have degree.You might have to confirm this b/c I heard this from one source.Oh and there is only about a $5,000 difference betweenaNurse with a BSN and a ADN. The benefit of having a BSN is that you can supervise other Nurses, LPN'S , etc and further your education even more.You have more responsibilities as RN with a BSN. If you provide the state inwhich youlive in, I can recommend some colleges.I just want to warn you that , unless you have a gpa of 3.78 or higher, it will be tough getting into a Nursing program at a Public College/University.As for the private schools, they usually demand a 2.75 or 3.0 and up.Some require that you take a pre-nursing entrance exam.If you want anymore info or have any questons, feel free to send me a private message.GOOD LUCK!

Jillian,

Your best bet is to sit down with an academic advisor at your local college. They will be able to let you know what the steps are for admission to a nursing program. Excelsior College is the largest distance education provider discussed on these boards, but their nursing program is open only to those who have previous healthcare education (LPN, respiratory therapist, paramedic, etc).

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