Is it better to go straight to a BS nursing program or AA first?

Nurses Career Support

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I'm a junior at a university, and I'm almost done with all my major courses, and I know I can finish my nursing preq. on time to graduate.

I have a few questions:

1. I'm just wondering, is it better to go straight to a BS program after my undergrad or an AA program?

2. I'm thinking of going straight to a BS program b/c I want to be a Nurse Anesthetist. Is that a good idea?

3. Do you think it's a waste of time to attend an AA program if I want to be a nurse anesthetist?

Thanks in advance.

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Specializes in Adolescent Psych, PICU.

Just stay on course with your BSN because of your goals.

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Specializes in Med-Surg, Trauma, Ortho, Neuro, Cardiac.

Agree with above. If your goal is CRNA, then go for the BSN now.

Getting an AA won't be a "waste of time" but it's not in line with your long term goals.

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Specializes in L&D, Mother/Baby.

To play devil's advocate, the only good reason to go the AA route instead of the BSN route would be finances. If you needed to work while in school you could make much more money (and gain experience) being an RN.

Good luck with whatever you choose!

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I'm confused- you said that you are a junior at a university, and you will finish your nursing pre-reqs in time to graduate. What is your current major? Are you not already in nursing? Then you asked if you should go for the BS after undergrad- The BS is an undergraduate degree. If you are already at the university-why leave to go to an Associates degree program?

I have a previous non-nursing BS from 1992, and I'm going to do the Associates because I can do it part time and it will cost a fraction of the $$$ of the BSN. I can then go on to my MSN/CNM without a BSN. This plan would not be good for everyone though. It depends on your current situation/major/finances.

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