ASN or BSN before MSN?

[califdreemin23]

Do MSN programs ever look at accelerated BSN GPA for entry? I want to be an NP, but my undergrad GPA in a non-nursing major was a 2.85 and most programs require a 3.0. However, my prerequisite GPA is 3.6 and I could for sure get an associates. Which path is better? Should I get an associates and get work experience as a nurse, then hopefully get into some masters program with my non nursing degree? Or should I get health care related experience and try to get into an accelerated BSN (which, I understand might be difficult itself b/c a 3.0 is often needed) to improve my chances at a masters? HELP! Thanks!!

[KaliNurse]

This is MY opinion, and I'm sure others have theirs. The Associate's in Nursing has its benefits. You can become a nurse in a shorter period of time. You can start working in whatever field you desire, and THEN...have your employer pay for your BSN or MSN. If you choose to work in a hospital, LTC facility, school, etc....you should have the benefit of tuition reimbursement. Take advantage of it!

I know many schools are now offering the accelerated BSN programs. I also know that they are not a "walk in the park"! Most people who choose the accelerated programs are already working full-time, or close to it. It is not easy trying to juggle a job, and also meeting the high demands of an accelerated program.

My advice and my opinion is to do the associate's first. Then, get some experience. If you do this, you will find that going onto a BSN or an MSN program will be easier (it won't be easy, but it WILL be easier). The cost is also much cheaper to attain an Associate's instead of a BSN. Get some experience in a hospital, and chances are...they will offer tuition reimbursement for you to go on to the BSN, MSN and/or NP programs.

Hope this helps! ~ Kali

[BLSQUEEN]

I am in an MSN program right now and for what it is worth I think that some nursing experience under your belt would make your graduate school experience much more valuable. If you are going to go for your NP they will teach you the advanced practice stuff but you will gain more knowledge, skill and confidence by getting in some time at the bedside.

Good luck with your career path!