Published Jan 8, 2011
ILC22
3 Posts
Hello, I am 24 with a BA in a non-science field. My goal is to return to school for nursing -- ultimately to obtain a Nurse Practitioner/Public Health degree.
I understand there are ways for non-science BA-holders to go back to school for nursing. Has anyone has experience with this and have any tips? From what I understand, it would be best to enroll in an accelerated program after taking a few prerequisite courses and then continuing on from there.
Any tips/advice would be greatly appreciated !
Thank you.
nina_RN
31 Posts
you've got it right.many students w/ previous ba/bs degrees interested in pursuing a nursing degree enter the accelerated BSN programs geared specially for students like you.
It is completed in a shorter span of time, avg: 12-18 months.However, some still choose to do the ADN route for reasons that vary.Some feel 12 months is too cramped of a time to do nursing or for monetary reasons. A lot of community colleges offer ADN at a lesser price tag.See what fits your needs.Re: MSN/MPH,depending on the schools again,some will not require you to have a BSN and an ADN will suffice if you have a BS in another non nursing degree.
Mrs. Sparkle Pants
121 Posts
There are also entry level masters program.s...go to the AACN website and check out the lost of programs. Sorry I'm on my phone or I would give the link! I know yale has an entry level MSN MPH dual degree prgram.
ImThatGuy, BSN, RN
2,139 Posts
Just curious....what can an MPH do specifically for your career? What doors does the MPH open for a RN or APN that would not be open without it?
Thank you for the helpful replies. I am doing more research on the AACN website now...so I guess the next step for me would be to decide whether or not to take prerequisites or start an entry level master's program?
Thanks again.
Well, nevermind then.
The reason for Public Health: I was interested in going back to school for Public Health before I considered nursing. I would be interested in working with an international nonprofit, while being able to provide primary care. It seemed to me that a joint degree (MSN/MPH) would be a good route (and such programs exist).
However, I am at the beginning of making all of these decisions and will take any advice! Thanks.