Is an ABSN program worth the debt?

[Stella36]

Im torn between doing an ABSN program or an ADN program. I have my bachelors degree and 50k in student loan debt from that degree. I am 24 years old and I plan to start having a family by the time I am 28-30. My end goal is to become an NP and work in primary care. The ABSN programs run from 60k-80k and im scared im going to put myself in alot of debt. The other option is an ADN program but i feel like it is going to take forever. It is only two years but ive already gone to college and spent 5 years doing that and i just want to become a nurse and start working. I dont want to take forever to finish school and have to put having a family on hold. If i were to start a program id be already 25 years old. Any advice?

[CrunchRN, ADN, RN]

Not a wise choice to get all that debt. If you want a family you probably want a house too. You are young enough to take your time. That debt will never go away until you pay it and who knows if you will even like nursing?

[turtlesRcool]

Given your current level of debt, I wouldn't do an expensive ABSN program at this time.

I know you probably don't feel this way, but you are very young. Time is on your side. You should be able to get an ADN and start working in the same amount of time as getting a BSN, but for a fraction of the cost. Then bridge to your BSN in your own time (again, at a much reduced rate).

If you are looking to settle down, have children, buy a house in the next few years, you do not want to be doing that with over $100K of student debt hanging over you. That kind of debt will delay your plans much more so than taking an extra year or two to go the ADN route.

[Rionoir, ADN, RN]

I can't help but giggle when young kids come on here thinking a couple years is going to be nearing the end of their lives.