I think I've decided to go the ASN route

[ryanalice]

I already have a Bachelor's in another field and have been trying to decide between getting an ASN at a local community college, or an accelerated BSN program.

I went to an info night at a school tonight for their accelerated BSN program (Umass Boston). All they talked about was how intensive it is, how you can't do anything else for those 15 months, how you usually don't qualify for a lot of financial aid for a 2nd bachelors, etc. etc. Sigh.

There were some things I liked about it. The campus was gorgeous, the professors seemed caring and smart, and of course I'd love to be able to get my Bachelor's in the same amount of time (since I already know I want to go on to advance practice nursing.)

But it sounds like it would just be too crazy. Maybe if I was 22, and could live on my parents' couch for a couple years. But I'm 33 - with 2 kids - and bills. I guess I need to be smart, and pick the option that will allow me to have some sanity, and some balance in my life. So I think I'm going to go the ASN route and then hopefully I can find a job and start working towards the bachelors at that point. I think I'm making the best choice for me.

[DTWriter]

*** I would give the advantage to the MSN NP. NPs are often hired by physicians. Lot's of physicians dislike the DNP for good reason. Also the MSN is likely to be seen as the more experienced provider. The other thing to remember is that it is only certain NURSES who feel the education level of MSN NPs is inadiquate. The rest of health care thinks we are just fine with a masters. The only way I see the DNP prepared NP having an advantage is if s/he is applying for a job with the AACN, or for an academic job.

The effect of the DNP is going to be to give a massive advantage tp PAs. They will have, compaired to DNP NPs, a much shorter and cheaper education path. PAs are typical taught at the bachelors or masters degree level. They will have less time and money invested and will be seen at the more cost effective mid-level provider. Another thing that I think will happen is that many of the best and brighest of our nurses who wish a career as mid-level provider will ask them selves why they should spend a year or more longer in college, paying doctorate level tution, only to compeat with PAs for the same jobs at the same pay. I predict that PA will be seen at the more attractive education path.

I hope that what you are saying is the case for years to come.

Was there a time where physicians would pick BSN over MSN NP?

[PMFB-RN, RN]

I hope that what you are saying is the case for years to come.

Was there a time where physicians would pick BSN over MSN NP?

*** I doubt it. My guess is that there wern't any MSN NP students going around claiming they will be physician equivlents the way we have DNP students doing.

[bcandygurl]

That is so true in regards to PAs being more attractive..... I honestly feel with the current economy the more and more requirements they put on nurses the more there will be a shortage in the future...as many nurses are burn out now and complaining about not being compensated for all the work they do..why not just become a doctor or PA if you going to have put in the same amount of time and money?

[Kevin RN08]

First, I am prejudice towards second career ADNs ... whether they have a previous Bachelor or not.

As a working adult, raising children, paying mortage/rent, student loan(s), car payment(s), etc. it comes down to two things: cost and availability. Community Colleges offer a less expensive alternative than Universities. Time wise, in my case, it would've been about the same; provided you have all the prereqs completed an ADN is +/- 2 years and so is a Traditional BSN, Accelerated BSN programs are 12-18 months depending what the previous degree was (and prereqs).

On the job search front, I think many managers appreciate the dedication we "Career Changers" have shown. You have a full resume: life experience, a work history, professional references and accomplishments to set you apart from the 22 year old new grad. Yes, the BSN may be preferred, but even at Magnet Hospitals ADNs are hired. That being said, I would advise someone without an established career to pursue the BSN. Many (Magnet) Hospitals may require that you complete a BSN 3-5 years after hiring, but that can be done ON THEIR DIME!

Put your HR/ Managerial Hat on, applicant has a BS in XYZ and 5-8 years working in XYZ industry; now they are in front of you with an ADN. We can assume they probably have managerial (atleast supervisory) EXPERIENCE at some level. Management education is probably the biggest difference between ADN and BSN. Plus you may be able to hire them a little bit cheaper than a BSN.

[PMFB-RN, RN]

"As the education of the generalist nurse is elevated to the master's degree level.

*** Man, those people at the AACN really hate us nurses. Masters for generalist nurse? Really? First there just isn't enough about nursing that can be learned in a university setting. That mean the masters will have to have even more fluff than it currently dose. In my state new grads make around $20/hour give or take a couple bucks Who is going to invest the time and money for a masters degree for that kind of return?

Nursing can be a great career, it has been for me. However it seems certain people, chiefly the AACN, just can't wait to ruin it.

[crystal.h]

Wow, that BSN program does sound intense. Especially not qualifying for loans. Main thing I would consider is the recent trend in requiring RN's to get their BSN within a certain amount of time. I would recommend asking around (people other than officials at the schools) and find out if the RN's had any affect on their job search based on their degree level (do places prefer a BSN or does it matter). I agree that 15 months with no loans would be a bit much to handle, I am 30 with 2 kids and a husband that is also a student and it definately has been exciting and busy, but definately managable. I would also check into the RN to BSN programs around your area in case you decide to go back or are "recommended" to go back so that you know the level of work required with that. Good luck!