Don't think I want to pay for MSN

[MommyandRN]

I have been accepted into a few MSN NP programs and have been excited about going, very slowly over about 3-4 years, 1-2 classes at a time. However, I can't justify spending the money on it. I have kids that I haven't saved for college yet. We have credit card debt. I don't want to pay cash OR use loans and then owe more debt later. I might even have more kids which may delay me a semester or so... and since it will take so long, what if something happens and I change my mind and don't finish... I would have taken half the program for nothing. I would love to use any money we have to improve our home or put it away for my kids later. I have a BSN and think that may be sufficient for me. All of the thoughts about being an NP are great but I just can not pay for it!

[llg, PhD, RN]

Why not work for an employer who offers tuition reimbursement? They may only pay for 2 or 3 classes per year, but since you are planning to only attend school part-time anyway, that shouldn't be a problem for you.

But if you really don't want the degree ... then don't do it. But don't "not do it" because of the money without investigating the possibilities for your employer to pay for it.

[Blessedx3]

Dear Mommyandme....I would like to suggest to you a book called "The Total Money Makeover" by Dave Ramsey. It will change your life. We payed off two cars and a school loan in about 14 months after reading it. It really helps you get your finances in place--so that you CAN go to school OR have more babies....but with a feeling of peace that everything is in place...including college, savings, emergency plan, etc. Best of luck in your decision!

[caliotter3]

If you really want that degree and believe it will help you in the long run, then I think you should go for it. You need to weigh the pros and cons. As far as your other needs, those of your family, don't leave your own desires out of the equation. You can progress one class at a time. You should do something for yourself too. The debt will be paid off, sooner or later. Take into consideration that if you put off the degree, most likely, the tuition will be higher in the future. Start your studies now and look for opportunities to finance your classes. You might have to look around, but there should be some kind of help out there for you.