Do I stand a chance in getting into Accelerrated MSN program?

sfw57 · Aug 29, 2015

Hello,

I have a BS in Psychology and a MA in Psychology. After graduating with my MA, I have realized how tough the field of psychology is.

I have decided to pursue psychiatric nursing, as it still fits with my skills and interests, and finding jobs would be much easier.

I want to apply to accelerated MSN program, but I am worrying I may not get in. Could you please tell me my chances?

Bachelor of Science in Psychology from 4 year university with 3.76 GPA (3.96 in Psychology), and Master of Arts in Psychology from an Ivy League Institution (the school doesnt use GPAs but by my calculations it is 3.78)

GRE: 151 Verbal and 155 Quantitative, 4.5 Writing. (should I retake it???)

I have zero medical experience and I will have to take some more Anatomy, physiology and Chemistry courses before I can start the MSN programs.

Do I stand a chance? Would my heavy background in mental health, research and psychology look negative on the application? My resume is filled with teaching, research and clinical internship and externship with psychotherapist and behavioral services facility.

Is it a must for me to gain some medical experience? I am starting a full-time job with low pay to try to support myself and will also need to figure out how to pay for the prereq courses, so I am not sure how I can get volunteer medical experience in my schedule, would volunteering at a hospital once a month or so help?

I am also concerned about the letter of recommendations that I have to provide. One school in particular I saw wants a letter from a nurse or healthcare personnel. I dont know any healthcare personnel, so I feel like volunteering is the only way for me to get into grad school in nursing?

Any help is greatly appreciated. I have come to a very painful stop in my life and I am trying to figure out how to create a future. Please be honest and tell me if I have a chance of getting into accelerated MSN, and if not, what should I do to make myself a stronger candidate (I am planning on applying to multiple programs across the country)

Thank you in advance!!!!