How do I research getting a BSN when I already have a BA? What is that program called?

nurseprnRN, BSN, RN · Jul 7, 2015

Accelerated BSN is one term. If your BA didn't include a lot of sciences, you'll have to take all those, so you might not be saving a ton of time except for Gen Ed requirements.

elkpark · Jul 7, 2015

There is also the option of going to a "regular," non-accelerated BSN program. The accelerated programs are v. rigorous and intensive; esp. if you need to work while you're in school, some people find that the slower paced traditional BSN works better for them. I would encourage you to talk to all the nursing programs in your area, see what they have to offer you, and then decide which option is going to work best for your particular circumstances. Best wishes!

**NICU Guy, BSN, RN** · Jul 7, 2015

Also called Second Degree BSN

SopranoKris, MSN, RN, NP · Jul 7, 2015

Our program had a track for "2nd degree accelerated" for those with a prior bachelor's degree (or higher).

Bridge08t · Aug 2, 2015

This is what I am currently doing...

I received a B.A. in 2008 - Comparative Religions & Human Development (useful, I know)

I researched the local programs from both universities and tech schools.

I decided to then go forward with a BSN program - if you already have a B.A. then I recommend going for the BSN. In my area it would have taken 3 years for the RN due to pre-reqs and it is taking 3 years for the BSN.

I applied to the university and start this fall in the pre-nursing program, basically I only have to take the courses that are the "pre-reqs" for the upper division nursing program. In some ways it's nice, because I ONLY have to take the science courses, in other ways it is more stressful because it means that I really have to plan on getting A's because I will have no "buffer" classes as my advisor told me.

Locally it would have taken 1 year to get pre-reqs out of the way for the tech school nursing programs. Then there was no guarantee that I would get in to the programs due to long waiting lists. At the university I immediately got acceptance and if for some reason I don't get into Fall '16 I will get into Spring, so there will be no sitting around and waiting business going on...