Graduate with completed nursing requirements, but no BS in nursing...

arabmagic · Nov 5, 2007

You could apply to either an ADN (Associates Degree) program, OR a BSN program, either one & you would become an RN.

Many colleges have a "fast track" option for students who want their BSN & already have a bachelors in another field.

As far as the job opportunities & differences in an RN with an ADN vs an RN with a BSN.... and an RN with degrees in other studies..... I don't know. But I am definitely interested if anyone can shed some light in that area. Thanks.

illinipeds · Nov 5, 2007

Look into Master's Entry programs. They are generally for non-nursing students with a BS/BA in a field other than nursing. When you complete the program you have a Master's in Nursing and are at least an RN (sometimes more depending on the program)

MotivatedOne · Nov 7, 2007

Look into Master's Entry programs. They are generally for non-nursing students with a BS/BA in a field other than nursing. When you complete the program you have a Master's in Nursing and are at least an RN (sometimes more depending on the program)

I know here, in NC...there is only one Alternate Entry MSN program. Basically it's broken down into two phases. Phase 1 is campus based and four semesters long. You're basically taking graduate classes needed to be eligible to take the licensure exam. But when you finish you don't get an actual degree.

After about a year of critical nursing experience, you apply for a graduate program option (NNP, FNP, Nurse educator and so on) Now there's no guarantee you'd get accepted right off the bat. But when you do, the second phase is taken online with only about 4 campus meetings throughout the duration of the program.

I personally would go for the ABSN programs because at least after completing the program you have a degree to show for it because with the AE program here, you don't get your degree until after you've completed phase 2. So basically when you finish your first four semesters, you're still getting paid the same amount a BSN student gets paid even though technically you took graduate classes to become a RN.

Good Luck!!!

akanini, MSN, RN · Nov 8, 2007

Accelerated Bachelors or MSN program is definitely the way to go for you. Just

apply to more than one school. I always believe in having more than one plan.

gkbroaro · Nov 20, 2007

You would go for a ABSN over a AMSN?

SparklyGirl · Nov 20, 2007

You should look at the Direct Entry Masters in Nursing at Samuel Merritt. UCSF also has a direct entry program.

arabmagic · Nov 20, 2007

Looking back at my response, I guess it wouldn't make much sense for you to go for an associates (RN) when you have a MA already.

I know it even seems kind of "backwards" to get an ADN like I am when I already have a BS (Business), but I am not alone in my classes & there are plenty of others like me doing just that.

I just keep hearing how an RN is an RN is an RN is an RN ..... with very little difference between BSN & ADN pay.... until you get into management, etc. A Masters in Nursing would definitely open more doors.

But having your background & degrees would definitely move you up the "school food chain" so to speak! I will probably get my BSN one day & maybe later go for a Masters (once I have some experience under my belt & know what area I'd like to focus), but in the meantime I am just going to focus on the least expensive, quickest way to become an RN so I can start work!

So I guess the bottom line is it all depends on the individual, goals, timeframe, $ and where you want to end up......