Difficulty Level: ABSN vs NP school

Published

Hi everyone,

I'm currently in the process of applying to NP school, but my anxiety goes through the roof when I hear about how difficult it can be even going to school part time while continuing to work full time (I work at an outpatient clinic with five 8-hour shifts per week. Before becoming an RN I went through a 14 month ABSN program. I was just curious if anyone who has done both can offer some insight into how the two compare in difficulty level and in time commitments. I know they're two very different things, but knowing I made it through ABSN in decent shape (3.5 GPA, though I will note I did get a C+ in critical care), I'm hoping I can gain confidence that I CAN do this!!

The timeline of an ABSN program is just insane! As an NP student, I can tell you it is not as "difficult" as undergrad was for me, but that's because you already kinda speak the language. In NP school you're learning a new role and information needed to complete that new role to the best of your ability (advanced pharmacology, clinical practice guidelines, advanced skills and assessments, etc). The difficulty is finding enough time in the week to work full time, take 3 classes, and complete 16-20 hours of clinical. But since you completed an ABSN program you probably have excellent time management skills that will certainly help you in NP school.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion