Getting an Associates in Nursing after a Non Nursing Bachelors Degree

Simplistic · Mar 1, 2017

Hi there! I can tell you about a college that will accept you with that GPA, in the areas you mentioned. It has a wait list, but not very long. The program is 4 semesters, and you can use the time that you're waiting, to take any additional pre reqs you may need. Pm me if youre interested.

nursing.mk · Mar 1, 2017

i just made this account! for some reason I cant send PM's. Is the school you're suggesting a BSN program? I have taken all my pre-reqs so I'm ready to start any programs by May!

SopranoKris, MSN, RN, NP · Mar 1, 2017

It depends on the program. Since you have all As & Bs in your nursing pre-reqs, look for a program that awards points based on the pre-reqs, rather than overall GPA. The program I attended gave points for the pre-req grades and also gave points for overall GPA. However, many programs do have a requirement of a 3.0 or higher. I've seen some as low as 2.5. I would suggest applying for both a traditional program and an accelerated program and see where you end up. Our program had an accelerated ASN, so it was only 18 months. Check the admissions requirements at the schools you're interested in attending.

Talk to the nursing advisor in each program. If you had a significant gap between your bachelor's and your nursing pre-reqs, you may be able to show them that your current grades are more representative of the type of student you are now, as opposed to when you completed your degree.

Best of luck to you

nursing.mk · Mar 1, 2017

Do you think I can apply to a traditional BSN program after already holding a bachelors? For some reason, the schools in New York are not that forthcoming with the information as to what they give more points to, GPA or pre-req grades.

SopranoKris, MSN, RN, NP · Mar 1, 2017

Do you think I can apply to a traditional BSN program after already holding a bachelors? For some reason, the schools in New York are not that forthcoming with the information as to what they give more points to, GPA or pre-req grades.

You can always apply to a traditional BSN program. You can even do an ADN program with an existing bachelor's degree. However, if you're relying on financial aid, you may be out of luck because it's a 2nd bachelor's degree. Personally, I did the ADN first because I could get my RN quicker and then start working as a nurse while I completed the RN-to-BSN.

As far as figuring out points, most programs have this info on their websites. You may just need to find it in a prospective student guide or the actual application. Some schools require you to attend a nursing program information session before giving the points calculation sheet. If you know which schools you want to apply to, call the nursing advisor or make an appointment to meet in person to get the information you need.

BlueShoes12, BSN, RN · Mar 3, 2017

I have a previous bachelor's, too, although in a non-science area; I opted to go the ADN route and, counting prerequisites, it'll have taken me three years to finish (I graduate in May). Our local hospital (a Magnet facility) hires ADN-prepared nurses, although I'll have to complete a BSN within five years. It was affordable and gave minimal student loans, and I can use my nursing salary/tuition reimbursement from the hospital to help me pay for BSN classes.

Overall, getting an ADN has been a pretty good option and isn't necessarily any slower than the traditional BSN. It all depends on what your employment options are where you're located, as well.

applesxoranges, BSN, RN · Mar 3, 2017

You can try but an ADN isn't necessarily less competitive and in my experience appears to be more competitive because it is cheaper. In my area, going back for a traditional BSN is usually easier to get into than the ADN programs.

nursing.mk · Mar 3, 2017

That makes sense! Looks like I will be sticking to my first choice of wanting a BSN! Thank you guys

jaderook01, BSN, RN · Mar 8, 2017

I work with people that got their ADN and already had a BS/BA. I got my BSN after having a master's degree. You can go either way.

However, my co-workers that already have a non-BSN bachelor's degree are now in the position of having to get a BSN like all of the other ADN RNs in my hospital. I think some people should be grandfathered in due to experience- or just have them all do some kind of evidenced-based research project and call it a day.