Published Feb 20, 2008
MemphisTiger
150 Posts
One of the schools I am looking at as a directy-entry generic MSN program. You first get your accelerated BSN then move into the MSN program. Is a generic MSN even worth the extra time and effort? I already have a BS/MS in different fields. I'm trying to decide whether or not just to get my BSN and work for a bit before pursuing a MSN.
runningredsfan
9 Posts
I will be starting a generic MN program in a few months. I did it instead of accelerated BSN because of financial aid. I too have a BS degree in another field so I wouldn't get much, if any, federal aid for the accelerated BSN. But with the MN I qualify for full aid. All I want is to be an RN right now so I am not worried about the specialty degree.
rrkeni
28 Posts
what school is that. I too will start an MN program in May at Mount Saint Joseph's college in cincinnati, ohio.
Just wondering what nin financial aid related benefits exists in doing the MN program over the BSN. How easy would it be to become a FNP? would it take a lesser time? Would some of the credits transfer?
What schools take credits from an MN program?
Joe NightingMale, MSN, RN
1,526 Posts
I'm pretty much the same: MS in another field, wanted to become an RN quickly. With graduate programs you qualify for the PLUS loan (which used to be only for parents of students). PLUS loans cover any remaining expenses not covered by other forms of financial aid (like Stafford loans), based upon what your school estimates is the total cost of attendance.
I think it's easier to make the transition from MSN to NP; at least many of my MSN classmates joined this program specifically to prepare for the NP program. But don't quote me on that.
arciedee
610 Posts
I am also in a fairly "generic" direct-entry program (in clinical nurse leadership) and I think it can be a worthwhile endeavor. As with others, the financial aid issue played a significant role in my decision, but there were others. I am thinking about going into education at some point. For most schools around here you need to have at least an MS to teach, so this will give me that credential. We also take the same core courses as those in the NP programs (i.e. the theory, research), so I will already have those if I decide to go on for an advanced practice role. In my current immersion I have met a fair number of nurses who have masters and are working in areas such as clinical manager, quality control, and infection control. While the masters isn't necessarily required, I think it does give them an added credential when applying for those positions, so when I look down the road at areas I might want to work in eventually, I will be glad to have the masters.