Is Higher Education Worth It?

Nurses General Nursing

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Hello All!

I am considering pursuing my BSN or even maybe doing an RN to MSN degree.

I have looked at many options, and that is not really what I need help with. I would like to know opinions about obtaining a degree after ADN RN. Is it worth the time and money? How difficult was it to do? How long did it REALLY take? (I know what the schools tell me, but reality maight be different.)

I am 49 and can't decide if I really want to do this at my age or not. (Not that 49 is really that old...just don't want to burn-out, ya know.)

Hubby is against it, as I work 3 days a week, 12 hr shifts. He says school will be tough and do I really want to tie myself down to it, and lose my free time again. I like my current job and the money is good, so it isn't really that. My mom says I have "Degree-Envy"!!!

But I really think I'd like to try for a degree in Health Admin.

Any help out there???

Thank you to everyone who took the time to give such good and supportive advice. Karafromphilly...you are so right.

Well, I have looked at a college 45 miles away that is coming to my town once a week for classes, so I will not have a drive. It is a very well respected college with a wonderful nursing program that seems very supportive of the adult learner. As I said, cost is not a problem. Family actually IS supportive...they just don't want me to get in over my head, as I do have some health problems. When I went to school, Hubby was WONDERFUL about it.

Sooooooo....I think I will take the dive into the waters of higher education. I am going to call the admissions office this week and look at what I need to do to get started. Wish me luck! I will let you know what happens.

Thank you, all my new friends! You are the best! :kiss

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:D Wonderful news, Regnurse! Sounds like your family will be very proud of you...and a little protective, for your own good of course ;)

I think continuing education is such a healthy challenge! I haven't even graduated yet...but I already have future plans for oh, about 15 yrs from now, to continue my education outside of nursing. My family thinks I'm strange 'why don't you just do that now?' lol...because nursing's a right fit now.

I just remind myself that besides my step-dad, no one in my family went to college, so they don't understand how addicting school can be! :p

Good luck and CONGRATULATIONS on your decision!

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Specializes in cardiac ICU.

Good for you, Regnurse. It sounds like your schooling situation might work out very nicely. I wish you all the best!

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I'm a firm believer that knowledge is power. You never can have too much. One irrefutable fact--more schooling, credentials, certifications, etc. gives you more options. I know of some places that no longer hire two-year degree/certificat RNs.

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Specializes in Hospice, Critical Care.

I was thinking the same question! I'm doing exactly what I want to do, ICU nursing. Tried the administrative route and hated it. I don't want to be a manager.

I'd love to have a BSN for the sake of the education and having the credentials. BUT...my kids are still young and I work full-time and I'd have to travel to take the classes. And so now I'm thinking it's not worth it. I love having time at home with my kids, my house, my hubby and my dog (not sure of the order, lol!). I'm not a youngster at 43 but I'm still thinking if I'm going to do it, I'll do it when my kids need less attention. So for me, for right now, naaah, it's not worth it. Later, maybe.

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Specializes in LTC, ER, ICU,.

learning/knowledge is the result of the educational process and best of all, it never ceases. all the best to you.

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