Direct Entry Programs- Which one is best?

[Nahbois]

I applied to Northeastern, UMass Worcester, Simmons and Regis direct entry nursing programs for Fall 2009 entry. I applied early to Regis thinking that getting a BSN (which the other 3 don't offer) was the most important factor. Now I'm not so sure this was the best decision. How important is a BSN for students graduating from these programs? If anyone has any feedback on any of these programs I'm in desperate need of advice!

[Winnie04]

Hi,

I applied to some of those same schools back in 2007. I was told by admissions that students in direct entry programs that grant only a MSN (and not a BSN along the way) will not be able to find work if they leave before finishing the program and obtaining the masters degree (even though after the first year they can take the NCLEX and be licensed RN's). They did say, however, that AS LONG as they are still enrolled in the program and eventually get a degree (MSN, in this case), students may work immediately after obtaining licensure. I am not sure if it is the hospitals or the board of nursing that mandates that RN's must have a degree or be in the process of obtaining one in order to work as RN's.

HOWEVER, having said all that, I just ran into an acquaintance who attended a Boston area direct entry program (that does not grant a BSN), and she left after she became an RN after the first year, and she was able to get a job in a major urban teaching hospital...so it seems like the rules are not 100% set in stone. She diid that a couple of years ago, though, so things could have changed since then.

I think the BSN route might be the way to go if you aren't sure what advanced practice specialty you want to pursue, and you want to get some experience before pursuing your MSN. You COULD still get experience if you go to one of the non-BSN schools, but you'd probably have to get your masters part time and work full time (because I believe that most hospitals do not hire new RN's on a part time basis).

hope this helps, good luck with your decision.

[Nahbois]

Thanks Winnie-

I definitely want to continue on to get my MSN so I guess I shouldn't worry too much about not receiving a BSN along the way. I just got into Regis and was granted a second interview at UMass. I won't hear from the other two for a few months but I'm keeping my fingers crossed because I really want to be in the Boston area. I loved Northeastern when I visited and it sounds like they have a great program so hopefully I will get in! I agree, going part time while finishing the masters portion is the way to go. Thanks for all your advice!