How much does they "type of degree" matter?

[MyGranniePanties]

Hi all!

I am a pre-nursing student currently taking my pre-reqs at a community college. I have been trying to research my options for degrees (ASN vs BA, RN to MSN vs BA to MSN). I am also interested in getting BA(hons) possibly. My long term goal is to get a masters in psychiatric nursing (1st choice) or anesthesia.

What is really important as far as degrees go? What do potential schools and employers look at? Will I be missing anything by going the RN to MSN route instead of getting my BA first? Is BA (hons) important to employers, do they even consider GPAs and school honors when deciding to hire?

BTW, before it is asked finances and family circumstances do play into this. I am a single mother of one, so my original plan was to get my ASN and work while getting my BA, but as the time approaches for me to decide which nursing school to apply for the anxiety of "getting it over and done with" is building up. I could really use some advice.

EDIT: THE "type of degree", hate typos

[JROregon, ASN, BSN, RN]

Schools for CRNA will look at your grades and your work experience as a nurse. They are pretty competitive. Not sure about psychiatric nurse degrees - the schools will likely look at your grades. I'm not sure why you would go after an honors degree and not work on your BSN either by getting your associates degree at the community college and getting into a RN - BSN bridge program or transferring to a university to complete your BSN in a more direct manner. If nursing is what you want, pick the most direct route that you have the time and money for. Good luck with your pre-requisite classes!

[caroladybelle, BSN, RN]

This site has a very useful search option, that allows you review the several thousands of threads available on this topic.

[AnewNur]

There is no difference really just the amount of time you spend in school is the differences. Usually an associate is enough if you want to work. Some people would say if you wanted a supervisory position then a BSN would be better but it really just depends on experience, and how well your superiors like you. If you are looking to further your education then these are some options

go for your BSN then go for your masters or

go for the ASN then you can take a BSN-MSN dual program (some schools wont give you a BSN title untill the MSN portion is complete) or

find a RN to MSN program

you said money plays a role in your decision look up the tuition for both and see how much it would be to go for your ASN then the additional 20-30 credits for your BSN and compare it to the BSN program.

PS prayer always helps to :) hope this helped

[IMOKAY, BSN]

Schools will look at grades but employers won't know it you are straight A or barely passed with C's. There are some hospitals here in Vegas that are requiring all associates degree nurses to get their BSN within a time limit to keep their jobs. This is why I am getting my BSN. You can also get promoted to management positions if you have BSN. I think MSN is an excellent goal but I don't know if it will pay off in the long run or not.

[TheSquire, DNP, APRN, NP]

In my large metropolitan area, BSN or masters-entry graduates have a much easier time landing jobs in the hospital, while associates degree graduates are more likely to put in time in an LTC before moving into the hospital.

Also, something to be mindful of is the reputation of a school among local employers. Graduates of schools with good reputations are more likely to land jobs sooner and in "better" positions.

[AprilAnney]

I agree with the school reputation notion. Potential employers aren't going to know your grades, but if you graduate from a school with a stringent academic policy, you'll have a leg-up with a degree from that school.

I'm in a similar situation as you. Money isn't a huge factor at the moment because of Pell grants and other scholarships, but those go away once you get a bachelor's. My plan is to get my ADN (hoping to have a CNA/PCT job after my first semester so I can easily transition in to an RN position when I'm finished) and then hopefully find a bridge program to get my MSN after a few years (and hope that my employer has a tuition reimbursement program).