Entry-level/Generic MSN

[littlesquirt]

Hi! I'm a first-time user and I have a lot of questions. So here's my story: I've just recently graduated from a 4-year university with a biology major. During these past months I've had no luck finding a job so I'm going to apply for grad school. But the problem is, I have no idea what to do! I want to go into nursing for sure though. But there are so many options. I got a headache just reading about all of them.

I'm currently looking at this program at SFSU called the Generic MSN and the Entry-level MSN at Samuel Merritt College. I was wondering if anyone knew anything about these programs. Like what kind of work do you do with this degree? Is it hard to get into the program? What is the application process like? Do you need prior nursing experience?

I'd really appreciate if somebody could help me out. Thank you!

[peonie]

hey littlesquirt,

i'm graduating soon and have been planning to enter the nursing field in the near future. i'm not sure how helpful i'll be in answering your questions, but i have read up a lot about programs on this forum (there's a ton under the graduate student nurse forum).

SFSU prepares you as a generalist so you don't specialize in any particular area. Samuel Merritt, has two tracks for the entry program: case management or family NP. so, if you don't know what you're interested in, SFSU is a way to explore that.

I don't think either program (or any direct entry) requires you to have prior NURSING experience, but a lot emphasize community service, volunteer activities, etc...to make sure you know what you're getting into.

I'm in CA too, and i recently discovered how many direct entry MSN programs are out there. some of the state universities don't even look at experience (i believe CSULB comes up with a score determined by GPA in prereqs and TEAS scores). The CA board of registered nursing has a list of approved programs here: http://www.rn.ca.gov/schools/rnprograms.shtml#msn

Good luck and congrats on graduation!

Kristina