Getting a masters or NP w/o working as an RN first!

[pinkstethoscope]

Two friends of mine are doing this exact thing. One is currently working on her Masters in Nursing, her bachelor's is a health science degree and apparently you can get your RN in this masters program. She is not currently a nurse, and has zero experience in healthcare. I really don't understand this, how on earth can anyone know they want a masters degree in something without ever doing it first! Another friend of mine has decided that she is going to be an NP, she too has a bachelor's degree in health science, but is not currently an RN and has never worked in healthcare.

A few co-workers and I were discussing this today and it seems to be becoming more and more common. It really just blows my mind.

[mellzie22]

I've never agreed with accelerated BSN's. Local schools offer an accelerated 1 year BSN for persons with a bachelor's in another field. I can't get an Art History bachelor's in the same amount of time...but sure no problem I can provide you medical care :)

The thing is, a lot of the traditional 4-year degrees are general education requirements. Since these people (myself included) have all of their general education out of the way from their previous degree, the ABSN just streamlines all the nursing courses.

I m starting a direct-entry program this fall. I will get my RN in a year and a half and work as an RN while finishing my Masters part-time. So by the time I get my MSN, I will have a couple years RN experience under my belt.