How tough is it to go from BSN to NP once you start working as a RN with a BSN?

patrick1rn, MSN, RN, NP · Jan 3, 2009

I am currently taking my pre-reqs. I know, I am way over my head right now. I am wanting to go the whole 9 yards and get a BSN. I am a CPhT. I see MD's NP's FNP's ANP's MSN's RN's and etc...signing on scripts all DAY! I KNOW I will be a nurse with RN. But, a part inside of me hopes to earn a Masters Degree and become a NP (or FNP, ANP, etc..) :heartbeat
What is the transition like to go from RN with BSN to NP?
How fierce is the competition to get into a Graduate school for a Masters degree in nursing for NP? Although I am shy and get nervous at times it doesn't hold me back. I love school. I do plan on keeping my GPA as perfect as possible! Any advice?
How big are your classes? A good quote to live by? What keeps you motivated to stay on top?
Any comments would be greatly appreciated

What is a CPhT ?

RN4NICU, LPN, LVN · Jan 3, 2009

What is a CPhT ?

I'm thinking it's Certified Pharmacy Tech

just_cause, BSN, RN · Jan 4, 2009

huge variance... how fast do you want to get through will make it harder/easier... class size will depend on school... distance or brick... to many variables... just remember everyone before you can do it - so can you. There are plenty of opportunities to enter in as an NP at a later date with a BSN....

NeoNurseTX, RN · Jan 4, 2009

Most programs want bedside experience before starting as an NP anyway.

just_cause, BSN, RN · Jan 4, 2009

...there are plenty of programs that are 'entry level' RN to NP throughout the country that do no require any experience... as well we direct entry programs to graduate as a DNP. Don't be limited by generalizations ~ :)

that being said.. if you want to be an NNP .. you need experience!! lol

NeoNurseTX, RN · Jan 4, 2009

Really? Around here they let you start the didactic courses but want 2 years clinical exp before you start NP clinicals. Makes sense though.

just_cause, BSN, RN · Jan 4, 2009

I should caveat - that the direct entry MN or DNP programs do require the individual have a non-nursing bachelors... as of 08' there were about 56 programs from AACN's website. The interesting thing has been the direct entry DNP program.

It is of interest to see certain specialties are more entry level friendly and good to see some that don't see it as beneficial and still require clinical exp prior... I understand that all NNPs require NN experience prior and that seems to make sense.. From what I have read the FNP 'as being a whole different animal' does not necessarily require clinical exp and thus does not.

v/r

rainyann · Jan 4, 2009

You can go directly to a NP program without first having an RN. There are programs out there. I am not sure where you are but Case Western in Cleveland has one. AT first I thought it wasn't a good idea, however, you do get a lot of clinical experience. If I am not mistaken you sit for your boards when you reach that point in your education.

Case Western's nursing school is superb.

I did the traditional route for nursing, diploma school, then went back for my BS, then my masters and now my DNP.

So, yes, you can do it.

bound4nursing · Jan 4, 2009

Yes, thank you.

I am a Certified Pharmacy Technician. I went to one of those trade schools where the tuition in absurd! But in the end, it's a very fun job and not so stressful (to me anyway):nuke:

I appreciate your comments. I do plan on getting an RN throughout my journey.

My daugter had a few febrile seizures when she was 2, since then she's been regularly seeing an Endocrinologist (for her Blood sugar was low) and the last visit was with a NP. I was so surprised at how caring and understanding the NP was and so made me realize, that's what I want to do. I don't know if I feel like I owe something to the medical field for taking such good care of her while she was hospitalized, but I sure do know what I want. :nurse:

I look up to people like you. I hope to be in your shoes one day and give other younger nursing students hope too. :bow: