Are Entry Level FNP Programs worth it?

Nurses General Nursing

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Specializes in Knife 'n' Gun Club.

Hello everyone! I am applying to several Entry Level MSN programs this year and I was wondering what others thought of entry level FNP programs. Some of the programs I am applying to award an MSN upon completion, but not an NP certificate.

So here's my question...do you guys think just knocking everything out at once is a good idea or is it wise to get my MSN and then go back later for my NP certification? I think gaining some experience as a med-surg nurse would be really beneficial, but then again it's a real pain to go back to school...

I'm in the SF Bay Area, btw, so I've ruled out just going back for my ADN because almost everyone wants their nurses to have a bachelor's or higher.

Thanks!

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*scratches head* I always thought the NP route was phasing out MSN, but I honestly don't know...if I'm right (trying to think back to what I read) I would just go straight for NP.

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Specializes in ICU.

Every program around here requires you to have a BSN before going back for your MSN/NP, with some very few exceptions that will allow ADN students to attend. I'm not sure what kind of program you're seeing that doesn't even require you to have an ADN first, that sounds pretty sketchy to me. What do you have currently - LPN or RN diploma?

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Specializes in Knife 'n' Gun Club.
Every program around here requires you to have a BSN before going back for your MSN/NP, with some very few exceptions that will allow ADN students to attend. I'm not sure what kind of program you're seeing that doesn't even require you to have an ADN first, that sounds pretty sketchy to me. What do you have currently - LPN or RN diploma?

I am in the SF Bay Area and there are a few direct entry MSN programs that are most certainly accredited. If you Google ELMSN programs at SF State, USF, UCSF, or Samuel Merritt the programs will come up. Basically you sit for your NCLEX near the halfway point of the program and then continue on into graduate studies. Some of the longer programs offer an NP certificate and are considerably more expensive so that's why I'm wondering if it's even worth it.

I have a BA, but I do not have an ADN or BSN.

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Specializes in MCH,NICU,NNsy,Educ,Village Nursing.

Gaining nursing experience would serve you (and your patients) well as a NP.

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Specializes in Knife 'n' Gun Club.

That's what I was thinking also. I guess either route is a good choice! :)

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Direct entry MSN programs require you to earn your RN licensure before taking masters level coursework, at least the ones of which I'm aware. If it's an NP program this should give you about two years to gain RN experience and learn to navigate the healthcare system in your chosen specialty as an RN before stepping into the NP role.

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I really think the fast track FNP route is great to get the schooling out of the way. however, you will still need experience as an RN. I have an MSN too and hoping to get my FNP. But I am just so tired after grad school that I don't think I will have the energy to do it. most programs are 2-3 years, so not very long. But they are intense and you need to devote your full time to it.

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Specializes in Knife 'n' Gun Club.

Yeah I'm just really torn between the two. Well, I guess I should see where I get in first haha.

The thing is that the "regular" entry level MSN route will cost about $85k and it's only 2 years. I can start working and then go back for my FNP if I choose (and it seems like there are a lot more "traditional" FNP programs that are not nearly as expensive as the direct entry ones). The direct entry FNP programs are about 3.5 years and in the $120-140k range. It's quite a bit more expensive. Not to mention the fact that you can't really work during the program and you still have to find a way to pay for rent, food, gas etc. I agree it would be nice to just knock it out and be done with school, but it's so insanely expensive and such a long program I'm starting to have doubts as to whether it's feasible or not.

My other concern is the quality of a new FNP with 3.5 years of school under her belt vs. an RN with some experience who went back for her FNP license...

I actually do really like school and I excel in my classes, so I don't foresee any problems with me not wanting to go back for my FNP in the future.

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Specializes in Knife 'n' Gun Club.

Um scratch that, the total cost for one of the FNP programs is $156,668. Holy crap!!

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Before you start looking at private schools with FNP, try hunting for state universities and public institutions which have these programs. They are slightly cheaper. However, in the overview of things, you will be making more than enough as a FNP to make up for the costs even if you have a long term student loans. I've known some students in the FNP program who did work during school, however they had a choice to be in the accelerated track and took the a part time student option. Good plan if finances or family are an issue. I honestly think entry level FNP programs, especially accelerated, are worth it. I would rather get my schooling out of the way than drag out my schooling for several years not making any money. But that's just me.

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