Introducing Myself - MPH Student Seeking Career Guidance

[RaquelR]

Hello everyone!

My name is Raquel and I am from New York City, and most recently I've begun to consider applying for a Nursing program. I have looked at the ABSN at the Mount Sinai PSON, The ABSN at Pace University, and the Accelerated Second-Degree Nursing Program (A2D) at Hunter College. I do have a couple of questions for those that may be familiar with ABSN programs. I've noticed that all the programs I've explored have not included the pre-requisite courses: such as Anatomy & Physiology, Chemistry, Microbiology or Biology, and etc. Is this standard for all ABSN programs? As someone with a Bachelor's in Education, and two semesters shy of graduating with a Master of Public Health, I have not delved into many/any STEM courses throughout both degrees.

In addition, upon speaking to a representative at Pace University -- regarding their ABSN application process, they stated that no courses from my Masters would be accepted as pre-requisites (which is pretty upsetting, since my grades in grad-school have been great oppose to my mediocre grades in undergrad). In addition, enrolling in an expensive program/institution at this point isn't something I am keen on doing after graduating. With all said and done, what would be the most cost-effective route to obtaining an ABSN? I am also looking to do some international work abroad after graduating, such as the Peace Corps, and would like to know if it would even be possible to start my pre-requisites while living and working abroad. 

 

[FindingNovember]

I can only speak from my experience with recently applying and getting accepted into my ABSN program. The short answer to your first question about science pre-reqs is that it depends on the program. I would be surprised if any program you apply to does not require at least A&P and Microbiology but each program is different. Personally, I might question the quality of a program that does not require basic science pre-requisites. 

In terms of cost, my suggestion is to complete any pre-reqs at a community college and go in-state at a public university if possible. I took my pre-requisites at the local community college. Some classes were online. Labs were in person (prior to COVID). A few programs will accept all online but again it depends on the program. I suspect COVID is a bit of a game changer these days. The cost for these classes weren't cheap but they didn't break the bank. 

Nursing school is expensive, some schools are astronomically expensive (in my opinion). I will be taking advantage of in-state tuition and commuting from home which will help to reduce some of the costs. There may be grants and scholarships available if you are willing to take the time to apply. You could also check to see if your home state has some type of public service loan forgiveness program. Good luck on your journey.