Direct Entry MSN or Accelerated BSN?

[chloejean104]

Hey everyone, so I just kind of wanted to get opinions on something. I was in a nursing program my first semester of college and then had an "oh crap--what if?" moment and transferred. Anyway, I received my bachelor's in biology with minor in chem and now I am heading back to the nursing path. I'm not sure which to follow though. My long term goal is to be a nurse practitioner. I'm only 21 and since I had no idea what I felt like I wanted to specialize in--I am in the process of applying to Accelerated BSN programs. I figured I could work for a bit and figure out what I really want to do and then go back for my MSN.

However, my mother talked to a friend who is a NP, and she suggested I not do that. She thinks I will get burnt out and not go back for my MSN. She said to do a direct entry MSN program and just go general so that there are still a lot of opportunities you can do. I was just wondering anyone else's thoughts on this? Thanks in advance for your help!

[AshleyPCA]

Chloejean104,

I was in your same position a couple years ago. I too, graduated with my bachelor's in another field and wanted to get into nursing school and eventually become an NP... however I did not know whether to do the direct entry MSN or go for the BSN. Well, ultimately I went for the BSN. I am about to graduate and it only took me 2 years. However, I am sad to say that I will only have another bachelor's degree when over these past two years I could have been earning my master's. I chose this route because all of the schools to offer the direct entry MSN here, and most anywhere, will suggest you not work during the program since it is so rigorous and I was scared of not doing so well. Although this BSN program is not a walk in the park either, I have been able to still work and earn money, as well as get all A's so far. Also, it was cheaper to do it this way since graduate credits are more expensive (unless you qualify for grants or scholarships). Therefore, even though I am receiving only another bachelor's, I am able to say that I am graduating with honors and will be considered competitive when I apply for new grad positions. No matter which program you choose, it will be tough, time consuming, and stressful at times. So, it is a tough decision and it truly depends on the cost, length of each program, your current degree and grades, your pre-nursing credits, and what you want to get out of it: to say you have advanced in nursing by getting a graduate degree (one step closer to being an NP), or to say you earned yet another bachelor's but could do well in the program and have an easier time getting into new grad positions and graduate school. I want to point out too that I did not graduate with my first bachelor's with the greatest GPA, so I was also nervous about getting accepted into the entry level MSN programs. If you think you can handle, afford, and get into an entry level MSN program, do it! If you are unsure of either of those, maybe look more into accelerated BSN (which is possible to get done in 1 year too). Just think hard about it and go with the option which will benefit you more in the end (the one that will allow you to get good grades, feel good about yourself and your accomplishments, and not leave you so much in debt, etc.).

Either way, good luck to you!!

[HealingThoughts]

I just applied to a second degree program at a local University. In your shoes and at your age, I'd say go for the MS degree. You already have an undergraduate degree in the sciences. For me, my undergrad degree (and work experience) was in non-science related field. That's why I made the choice I did.

Also, it takes the same amount of time to get a Masters as it does an accelerated BSN. So why not just go for it. Also, while working a regular job may be impossible, there are volunteer and summer opportunities you could consider for experience. Perhaps talk to a counselor at your program. They are usually thrilled when students come to them looking for ways to gain experience.

[DukeRN87]

I just finished an accelerated BSN program and am continuing straight on to a DNP. It seems like the long way around to becoming an NP, but if you don't mind taking things slowly it could be a great route for you. I loved my ABSN program and would not trade it to do an entry-level MSN program. I will be in school for 4 1/2 years before getting my DNP and I am okay with that. It is really what you think is the best path for you.

[ToTheStudent]

I switched from applying to mostly ABSN to almost all direct entry as soon as I discovered it to be an option. I was accepted, into both types actually at different schools, some of the best schools in the nation in fact and I immediately took the direct entry route. If NP is your ultimate goal then go direct entry. Don't worry about the length or the expense, you'll be fine. Hundreds of students do it every year. With that said you need to know your specialty before you apply and know it well. Never count on being able to switch, you are accepted on your specialty choice and it doesn't generally look good to switch unless you absolutely need to!