How does it work?

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Can someone please explain to me how the degree thing goes. I don't understand which order it all goes in! If I get my Associate Nursing Degree, what comes next? If someone could please, please explain it to me, I would be extremely greatful.

Thanks:confused:

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BSN, Master's, then DR.........I hope that helps :)

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Specializes in ICU, psych, corrections.

ADN---->BSN----->MSN------->NP/Doctorate/PA

:nurse:

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"ADN---->BSN----->MSN------->NP/Doctorate/PA"

The NP is usually a Master's Degree, and the PA is not a nursing degree, but usually a Master's or Bachelor's. The NP and PA are licenses or certifications, not degrees.

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Specializes in ICU, psych, corrections.

Right...I guess I was trying to say what MY personal educational path will be. I will be getting my BSN after my ADN, then going back to get my Masters, which will then be used to become an NP or PA, or if time and money allow, a physician. Sorry for the confusion! :p

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Specializes in Trauma ICU, MICU/SICU.

Hi pbunny,

Not sure if you're asking what degree comes next or what type of nursing license, but here's all I know:

Requirements to sit for RN exam to become Registered Nurse:

Hospital Diploma Program (no degree, credits often non-transferable - someone correct me if I'm wrong) - usually 3 years to complete.

ADN - 2 years but takes many people longer than that because it is so competitive that pre-req's need to be done or mostly done before you can get into the 2 year nursing program.

BSN - Can do traditional 4 year path, accelerated (if you have Bachelor's in another discipline) or RN-BSN bridge (if you're already an RN Diploma or ADN).

After that you can go on to get an advanced degree, there are probably 100 disciplines to choose from (i.e. nurse anesthetist, nurse practitioner, pediatric nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, etc. etc.).

Hope that clears it up for you.

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PA is not nursing it is an entirely different field. And it is not a degree. This poor soul is already confused enough.

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So, if I am going for my ADN, I can then take the the test to get my license, and I will be an RN? Am I uncerstanding that right?

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That is correct.

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ok thank you everyone for clearing up my silly little confusion:D

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Another path off the same question -- people in my school said they can go on line and apply for certification to practice as an LPN after the third semester of RN school, and that no exam is required. You will be given a certification by the state to practice as an LPN or GPN (graduate practical nurse) and it is good for a year while you finish RN school in the meantime and take your boards.

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