How do I gain advantage to getting in to Entry level MSN?

[woot544]

Hi guys,

I am currently a Child Development Major Right now and debating

whether or not to pursue a double major Health Science at CSUF. If I

pursue the double major with Health Science, will I have a better

advantage to getting in an Entry Level Masters in Nursing Program?

Or will it not make a difference? I wanted to ask because I

am due to graduate this semester, but just wanted to know if doing a

double major in Health Science would give me step up in being accepted

or any advantage. Thank you for your time.

[Amanda1985]

I majored in Child Development and was admitted to an entry level MSN program.

I don't think having a double major will increase your chances of being accepted because there are a lot of other things that the schools take into account.

For instance, your gpa, letters of rec, personal statement, test scores, etc.

[just.fran]

As many folks have mentioned, what your degree is in is not as important for Entry Level MSN as having the prerequisites completed. Most programs have similar requirements, so if you have to choose between taking those classes or getting a dual degree, I'd go for the pre-reqs.

From what I can tell, a very important consideration is how much experience you have in the health care setting (volunteer, paid or otherwise). I'd use your time volunteering in a hospital, getting as much patient care experience as you can.

Another real question to ask is whether or not you really want an ELMN program. This is for people who are interested in advanced practice nursing. If you want to do bedside nursing in a hospital, do an A-BSN. It's a shorter commitment, there are more programs and there are more spaces in the programs. It's also the "equivalent" of the first year of a ELMN. Then, if you really want to do a MSN, it's much easier to get into the regular program. Plus, a lot of hospitals will help you with your tuition.