Getting my BSN in 1.5 years or 3 years?

ShineBright, BSN · Apr 19, 2015

I would honestly go for the 1.5 year program. I feel as if you might lose information over the summer. Also, your study habits may change. Going through a continuous program keeps you on top of things. You won't have that time to slack off.

Having the summers off would be nice. You would have a nice break to relax and get some experience in the hospital but do you think you can go back in the Fall totally prepared for the crazy nursing school schedule?

You have some very good pros and cons here. It's truly up to you. Do you love both schools equally? Think back to when you were applying for the schools. Did you want to get into one more than the other?

moondoggie747 · Apr 20, 2015

Im 53 years old and just started a 2 year ADN. And you will be 27 when you start. And your problem is? Kidding aside, I think it would depend on what kind of student you are. Nursing school is tough, and a 1.5 year program would not be very forgiving at all if you fall behind. A three year program can offer re-taking of some classes during the summer if you need to. And you can nurse tech on the side to gather experience and get your foot in a door. Good luck

Leonardsmom,LPN · Apr 20, 2015

Getting your BSN at 30, is not too old. I am waiting to find out if I start my ADN program this coming year and will be 35/36 depending on which semester I start, I am planning on having my BSN by 40 at the latest. Honestly I would go with the 3 year program. You will be able to focus on your grades and if you decide that you want to continue on in a masters program doing well in your classes is going to be more important than finishing them quickly. Also having those short breaks between semesters and the summer will allow you to reenergize. The accelerated program is going to be continuously on the go from what you are describing with very little time to rest and decompress.

Definitely think about the pace that you are going to be able to maintain. There are many posts that can be found here on AN about students that decided to do an accelerated program and than find it difficult to keep up with the pace. Not saying that you would not be able to do so, but definitely keep in mind that accelerated programs tend to be more stressful than traditional programs.

runstohousebeats · Apr 20, 2015

Thanks for your replies guys. And i'm sorry if sounded insensitive by saying I would finish 'just shy of 30'. I didn't mean to say that as if its too old or something. The only reason I said it is because for me at least, there is something psychologically important about starting to get a footing in life before the age of 30. That and getting something done sooner is usually better than getting it done later.

Regardless though, you guys bring up some good points that I definitely need to consider.

And just to add, I'm not scared of doing poorly in an accelerated program. I feel like I'm studious enough to handle it. For me the major factors are the ability to have some health care worker experience and internships on my resume before I graduate so I can have a leg up when applying for jobs. But time is also equally as important. That year that I'm not in school could be spent gaining experience in the real world if I'm lucky enough to land a good position. The trade off is really hard for me to decide between.