ADN via CC?

webbiedebbie · Jul 3, 2003

Hi Michael and welcome!

I went to a CC and graduated with an ADN. I had no trouble getting a position right after graduation as a grad nurse in L&D.

The difference, I am told, is that in the CC we spent more time with clinical (hands on) than on writing papers. This sent me into a critical thinking pattern.

After completing the first year, I sat for boards for LPN, and worked part-time during the second year as an LPN. I feel this helped me tremendously for RN boards!

The pay between BSN and ADN is not much different.

I NEVER felt discriminated against because I was an ADN, either from hospitals or coworkers.

Again...WELCOME!

Hellllllo Nurse, BSN, RN · Jul 3, 2003

I am an ADN, as are 75% of all RNs, according to an article I read recently. However, it may take a lot longer than three years to get your ADN degree. With stiff competition to get into nursing school, and many prereqs, that is often the case. It was with me.

NICU_Nurse, BSN, RN · Jul 3, 2003

I have an ADN, and there is certainly no problem getting work, nor is there a lack of opportunities to pursue higher education through employer-sponsored programs in this area.

I have never been discriminated against in any way for not having my BSN nor have I met anyone who was rude or condescending or inappropriate when discussing my degree. In fact, the only hostility I have ever witnessed has taken place on this web site, so that's saying something IMO.

:)

redwinggirlie · Jul 3, 2003

I have an ADN and got a job right out of school, with many other offers to choose from.... some are still coming in. Maybe sometime down the road I'll go for my BSN, but I don't feel the urge just yet, nor do I need it right now.

oramar · Jul 3, 2003

You really get a lot for your money at a Community College ADN program.

VickyRN, MSN, DNP, RN · Jul 3, 2003

you really get a lot for your money at a community college adn program.

...if there are enough nursing faculty on hand to teach and you don't have to wait years to get into the program....

geekgolightly, BSN, RN · Jul 4, 2003

Originally posted by oramar
You really get a lot for your money at a Community College ADN program.

I agree. And for those of you who want an ADN degree but are having difficulties getting in, move to Houston! it's cheap to live here. There are many programs to choose from and it's home to the largest medical center in the world.

zacarias, ASN, RN · Jul 4, 2003

Michael,

I'm here to tell you that most places in the US don't care if you graduated with an ADN or BSN. There is a severe nursing shortage and ADN provide skilled nurses in a reasonable period of time. This is a good thing. The ADN programs have been in existence for more than half a century.

If you want a job in management, you may need a BSN but somehow I don't think that's what you're looking for right off the bat. A lot of nurses do go back and get a Bachelor's after they are RNs and I think that's great. It often only takes one more year at that point.

NICU_Nurse, BSN, RN · Jul 5, 2003

I'll tell you, the thing that is MOST prompting me, though certainly not the ONLY reason, to go back and get my BSN/MSN is the fact that from what I've seen, management as a whole leaves much to be desired, and, as I am very much a "Sometimes the only way it's done is if I do it" type of gal, I have a feeling I am going to WANT that management position sometime in the future if for no other reason than to affect change on a unit where I have little control at present. Know what I mean?

Getting the BSN was completely out of the question when I went to school, and I am grateful that I now have the option of going back, but I simply could not have done it back then. I say if it is possible for you to go, considering financial/emotional/physical/circumstantial factors, tough it out and get the highest degree you can as soon as possible. If it's not an option at the moment, don't fret.

NICU_Nurse, BSN, RN · Jul 5, 2003

Zach,

OMG! Am I reading that right? You've graduated? Congratulations!!! Am I remembering correctly that you'd posted asking for advice when you first started, or am I going nuts?

Good for you!

dosamigos76, RN · Jul 5, 2003

I live in New Mexico and am attending our local Community College. Yes, it has taken me since I started last summer going full-time to get my prerequisites done and I will finish them this summer. Our RN program has at the most a one semester waiting list-and that is only if your GPA is not real high. We also are on the "ladder program" where after the first two semesters you sit for the NCLEX-PN and after the fourth semester you sit for your RN. I highly recommend it! The cost is MUCH lower and you generally have smaller classe sizes. I hope to continue on to my BSN at the local University later, but I highly recommend CC's! Our pass rates have been 100% on the first try for the last 18 months too!

Something to think about anyway.

Good luck with whatever you decide.

Cheryl