Game Plan with my BA/MBA but want an ADN

[RNrhythm, BSN, RN]

Hey there. I just want to run my "become an RN before I turn 50" game plan by you all. I am in my mid-40s and I am currently taking my pre-reqs. I work full time, which I want to keep doing as long as possible while I am in nursing school.

I already have a BA in Communications and an MBA in Marketing. I want out!

My plan is to get an ADN. I don't want to take the extra time for an entry level MSN and most BSN programs will not take me because I already have a Bachelors.

I figure that if I get an ADN and become an RN, I will get working faster. Later, when I know more about real life nursing and my own interests, I might consider continuing my education.

Does this make sense? Is this a good plan? Do you see any drawbacks?

Thank you in advance for your insight!

[OrthoFNP]

Good plan!

[CrufflerJJ, BSN, RN, EMT-P]

The only potential drawback I see is that many ADN programs have a 2-3 year waiting list before you can actually start the 2-3 year program. You're talking 4-5 years there...

Since you already have a couple degrees, you might consider looking into accelerated ADN or BSN programs available in your area. These are designed for people who already have a prior degree, and can get you your ADN/BSN in 12-18 months. I was an engineer for 22 years before doing my ABSN program.

Some accelerated programs do not have the long waiting lists seen with ADN programs.

You may or may not be able to work during the accelerated programs, since there's so much stuff to do with class & clinicals, but some of my classmates worked during our program (including 1 guy who worked full time!).

Good luck!

[ETovar]

Hi, we're in the same boat. I have my BBA (marketing/management) but I've always wanted to be a nurse. I'm also going for my ADN and in the future get my BSN. I have my BBA to back it up so I really don't see the need to get my BSN right now. I've thought about doing the Fast Track program but I've heard bad things about it, like, its too intense, they cram everything at once, its very overwhelming, and you can't work while in the Fast Track. I have to work, even if its part time. I'm sticking to the 2 year program. Anyway, good luck to you. And again, I think you're making the right decision about getting your ADN.

[jhsRN]

So glad to see others with my game plan! I have a BS in business admin, work in banking, & want out bad! Nursing is something I've wanted to do for many years. ADN or ASN is what I am doing. Pay is not that much more for BSN RNs.

[JBMmom, MSN, NP]

I'm also heading back after a BS/MS in molecular biology and 10 years of work in research. I've looked into the accelerated BSN programs and those would be an excellent option for someone that can complete a year of schooling without working. For me, as the only wage-earner in our household, a part time school option is my only choice because I need to maintain employment, so I'm hoping for acceptance into a 2010 ADN program. Good luck to all of us later-in-life nursing career starters.