Getting a MA before a ADN?

[jackiei3]

I'm currently doing my prerequisites for the ADN program. I work full time and I am paying for classes out of pocket and I am trying to minimize student debt. I know when I enter into the ADN there will be no way I can pay 16 credit hours out of pocket so I will do loans. I was given advice to get my MA to make more money while in school. This would hold me back a year because I couldn't enter the nursing program while doing a MA. . . My question is, would a MA be worth it in the end because it would minimize the amount of loans I would have to take out?

[LadyFree28, BSN, LPN, RN]

Short answer:

If you are in an ADN program, after the first semester, you can take the CNA state exam or apply at a local hospital as a tech.

Best wishes.

[pmabraham, BSN, RN]

Good day:

From my own research, it would be better to just go straight for the RN program (AD or BSN). From what I understand, once you are done with the nursing fundamentals course, you would qualify as a PCT.

Thank you.

[NurseGirl525, ASN, RN]

It depends. Would you be able to work while going to nursing school? That's a lot to do and will you get paid enough to do it. I would honestly just take out the loans and pay it back. I don't think you will make enough as a CNA to really have an impact on loans. Add in the stress of working while in nursing school. It is true that after your first semester of nursing school you can sit for the CNA exam so I wouldn't waste my money on the class.

[RunBabyRN]

I wouldn't waste the time and money on your MA. I'd consider a CNA program (they're generally short, if my memory is correct) and work doing that through school. The skills are more transferable, and you'll have a better shot at working in a hospital. Our program requires people to get their CNA license prior to starting, anyway, and more and more programs are starting to do this. Check out the Red Cross- I know they offer a class.

Be sure to apply for grants as well- they don't have to be paid back. They can at least cover tuition, and sometimes books, which can make a big dent in your expenses. The first semester of school can be very expensive, with books, scrubs, stethoscope, shoes, etc that all need to be purchased immediately. Student loans may still happen, honestly. Few people are able to work full time through school, but it can be done by some people, especially if you're unmarried and without kids.

Good luck!

[Moving Foward]

I wouldn't do the MA program either! Not worth it lol

[7237dallas]

I third that! I did the MA years ago and wish I would've went the LPN route bc it was only 2 months longer and I wouldn't have wasted that money!