Is it better to do an entry MSN or BSN if you do not have an RN yet?

[cacurlytop]

Do you think it's better to try to get an entry MSN and take the Nclex, than a BSN? Still would have no work experience when finished and looking for that new grad job, so would it be harder to find one with a Masters RN and no experience? or better to have it completed. Thanks

[PMFB-RN, RN]

Also, would my LPN experience count for anything as a new grad with an MSN?

Maybe, but this is HIGHLY variable. Where I work RNs get credit for 6 months of experience for every year of LPN experience.

So you would start at a MUCH higher pay rate than a new RN with no LPN experience. Other place won't value it at all.

[applesxoranges, BSN, RN]

I am an LPN with 23 yrs. experience. I have a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field and I am considering a direct entry CNL program in my area. My main concern is cost. I eventually want to move on to become an NP, and I am looking for the most cost-efficient route. Another option, is for me to get my ADN, work for a couple of years, then do an RN to MSN program. Again, I'm concerned about the cost. Also, would my LPN experience count for anything as a new grad with an MSN?

It depends. You would have to factor in all the different pros and cons. It may be cheaper to go ADN, RN to BSN, then MSN. Believe it or not, it was cheaper for me to do that than to get a traditional BSN and then a MSN. It was still cheaper to get each degree than to go ADN, RN-MSN. So I would begin researching different schools and different requirements. Would you have to take additional science classes? Would you have to take the GRE?

There are even direct entry NP programs but they are very uncommon.

Depending on your grades, you could even try to go the PA route. You could also sell your soul to a healthcare system and get some money that way too.

As for experience, it depends on the employer. Each employer is different.