Need educational advice...PLEASE help

[fishgirl79]

I am hoping to receive some information as to the educational route I need to pursue. Here is my background info:

I am currently employed with a state natural resource agency as a biologist. I have a BS in wildlife and fisheries biology and a MS in Fisheries Biology. I also have two small children (2.5 and 9 months). I am wondering what the best educational route for me to become a Clinical nurse Specialist is without taking too much time away from my children...I am and will always be a mother first.

So, should I pursue my ADN and then work as a nurse at night and find a partime MSN program. With this scenario I would be looking for an online bridge program...since I already have two degrees. Or should I go full steam and find an MSN program?

I know the ADN route would take a little longer, but I also have to keep my childrens interest first and foremost. Thankfully, my husband is in full suppoirt of this decision. Any advice, tips, suggestions are welcome. Thanks for your help!

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

I would begin by finding out what your state requires to be awarded an advanced practice nursing license. The state board of nursing can help. You might get an interview with an advisor from a state school that offers advanced degrees to learn what they offer and what is state requirements. Once you know what you HAVE to do, then you can decide what you WANT to do. Good luck!

[skater95374]

I've been going to school since Fall of 2006 and tried to do it "part time". It really is a full time job as a student regardless of my careful planning to get all my prereqs out of the way prior to entering the program and now I am in the nursing program with only one semester to go. I don't know anyone, including myself who has not spent countless hours studying, preparing for clinicals, and doing care plans. It is a full time job, no matter how much you try to plan ahead.

This is just a heads up to let you know that it will take lots of time. I wish I had more time with my family. The program I am in, which is ADN, the instructors told us to get ready to enlist your family to help do the laundry, cook, clean the house, and run errands and chores in order for you to have time to study. There have been times when it did not even seem like enough time to take a shower! LOL! No kidding!

Hope this helps. I am not trying to steer you away from nursing, but just know that even the ADN is labor intensive. The head of the nursing dept. at one school said she felt sorry for the ADN students because it seems like they have to know just as much as the students going for the BSN but in less time. Good luck!

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

I agree. There is only one licensure exam no matter what type of degree you have.