Direct-entry MSN

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I'm considering an accelerated MSN program (direct entry for those without nursing experience/background). What types of jobs typically available for those with an MSN but no prior experience? Will pay be same as for other new RN grads with an ADN or BSN? Also what's the typical pay range in my home state (GA) for new RNs?

I plan to eventually become a CRNA, is it possible for new grads to get into fields like ICU/EM to gain the needed experience?

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Seems like you're describing two different goals within one approach. What type of MSN are you seeking?

From what I understand (and I could be wrong), some of these direct MSN programs are geared towards FNP or CNS roles...in those cases I think that having bedside experience as a RN/experience in healthcare would be very helpful, but not absolutely necessary with the right individual and proper training. These roles are not at the same pay scale or scope than ADN or BSN RNs.

If you're considering CRNA school, that's a completely different professional track. For that option, clinical experience as an ICU nurse is absolutely necessary. As far as I know the only way to become an anesthesia provider without prior clinical experience might be through CAA programs or the med school route.

And yes, it is possible to get ICU experience as a new grad. I am just not too clear on the type of MSN program you're describing. Is it more like an accelerated post-bac program that awards a BSN at the end?

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Specializes in MSICU.

ASUdevil, yes they are similar to the accelerated post-bacc programs. UA has a direct entry master's program called a MEPN. It allows you to sit for the NCLEX and work as an RN, you end up similarly educated to a BSN trained nurse but have a master's in science. To go on to any advanced practice nursing you would need to go back for a DNP.

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Specializes in Peri-op.

Direct entry MSN is the same i am applying for. It allows non-nursing bachelor graduates get into MSN program and then take NCLEX. But i have same questions as the post starter.

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Specializes in NICU, ICU, PICU, Academia.

Direct entry MSNs without specialization compete for the the same new grad jobs as ADN and BSN new grads- they also get paid the same, making the ROI for these programs sub-optimal.

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Direct entry MSN is for post grads with non-nursing degrees if you want to become an Nurse practitioner... rather than getting a BSN from a 4-year college, then getting your traditional masters... or doing an ABSN to become an RN. Direct entry MSN is like a ~2-3 year program. First half is taking classes & clinical rotations, taking the NCLEX exam at the end to become an RN, then the second half would be training to become an NP... You also would have to pick which specialty you want (i.e. pediatrics, family, Adult-gerontology, to name a few...)

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From someone in the last year of Northeastern's PNP direct-entry program: It takes 5 years to complete full-time, not including the 8 pre-reqs needed before applying (stats, micro, A&P 1&2, chem 1&2, etc). Those took an additional year and a half. The total time will be 7.5 years.

  • The BSN portion is 15 months (avg 16 credits/semester, 4 semesters)
  • Work as RN FT for a minimum of 2 years before you can start MSN
  • the MSN portion is 2 years, with an ongoing RN work requirement that alternates FT/PT (depending on how "heavy" a semester is in terms of credit hours or practicum hours)

The FNP program is a year shorter (4 years). They need 1 year of RN practice experience before starting the MSN but have the same work requirement as us during the MSN portion.

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On 9/18/2018 at 1:51 PM, meanmaryjean said:

Direct entry MSNs without specialization compete for the the same new grad jobs as ADN and BSN new grads- they also get paid the same, making the ROI for these programs sub-optimal.

I agree and most MSNs are very expensive. If the price was cheaper through a scholarship or somewhat around the same range as a BSN then I would recommend but it doesn’t seem worth it for over 100k

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Specializes in MSICU.
On 9/23/2018 at 12:25 PM, gopats1234 said:

Direct entry MSN is for post grads with non-nursing degrees if you want to become an Nurse practitioner... rather than getting a BSN from a 4-year college, then getting your traditional masters... or doing an ABSN to become an RN. Direct entry MSN is like a ~2-3 year program. First half is taking classes & clinical rotations, taking the NCLEX exam at the end to become an RN, then the second half would be training to become an NP... You also would have to pick which specialty you want (i.e. pediatrics, family, Adult-gerontology, to name a few...)

Not all MEPN programs are for advanced practice. The one local to me is more like an ABSN program, completed in 15 months and allows to sit for the NCLEX. You would then have to enter the DNP program to continue on for NP school.

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