Didn't get into backup direct-to-Master's Program, now what?

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Hello,

Wondering if anyone has advice on this matter? I am an older student finishing pre-reqs for direct-to-master's programs here in Chicago. I have been rejected by all schools in spite of a 3.8 GPA in these required courses. I am now considering my other options. Would it be better to get an RN certificate from the City Colleges program or try to get a second bachelor's? The less expensive route would be certificate, but I understand most employers now require bachelor's degrees. My ultimate goal is DNP so I would be continuing my studies either way. Any input would be much appreciated! I am absolutely committed to becoming a nurse, whatever that requires.

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Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

There is no such thing as an "RN Certificate". Registered Nurse is a license obtained by passing NCLEX-RN, not a degree. Do you mean an Associates degree or Diploma? Either of those will also qualify you to take NCLEX. You are correct in assuming that most hospitals in major metro areas are only hiring BSNs these days.

Getting to a DNP is a long haul. It's better to focus on one step at a time. It would probably be better in the long run to get your BSN & gain some clinical experience prior to choosing your NP specialty pathway. Admission to most NP programs requires clinical experience in a related field. Direct-entry (pre-licensure) MSNs are pretty worthless, as they don't really add any value in terms of clinical practice. You'd be competing with all other BSN grads for exactly the same jobs with the same salary.

Don't discount the possibility ... after actually engaging in some clinical experiences, you may discover that you don't like the reality of direct patient care. This happens more often than you would even imagine. If so, you'd have the option of choosing to move into less clinical pathway for your graduate education.

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Thank you so much for the information. Extremely helpful. Yes, I was referring to an Associate's Degree program. I had just assumed, apparently incorrectly, that the direct-entry MSN was the best path to the DNP goal.

So, to sum up, you would recommend the BSN, getting a few years' clinical experience and then making the decision as to what course further education should take?

Again, thank you so much.

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So, to sum up, you would recommend the BSN, getting a few years' clinical experience and then making the decision as to what course further education should take?

That would be my recommendation.

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Specializes in Family Practice, Mental Health.

To the OP:

Why don't you get the opinion from an ELMSN degree graduate in your area before spending your money on a second Bachelors degree for the RN route.

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That option is completely off the table for me at this point. There are only three programs in the area and two have already rejected me. The question now is whether to pursue second Bachelor's or RN diploma. Given what I've read thus far, I believe BSN would be the better choice. Thanks!

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Specializes in NICU, ICU, PICU, Academia.

BSN would be my recommendation too.

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Thanks! All input is much appreciated. To clarify, do you believe the BSN route to be better than both RN to BSN to MSN and the direct-entry MSN?

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