Jobs that require both MSN and BSN

allnurses Guide · Mar 22, 2013

I'm a direct entry grad and I do not have a BSN. My program was RN-MSN. It was never an issue when I applied for jobs. I am an FNP, and I really don't think it's much of an issue in the outpatient setting.

Good luck!

ACorEtACri · Mar 22, 2013

Some states require you to have a BSN to participate in MSN programs. An example would the GA. I am not sure how this would affect your job prospects though.

mzaur · Mar 23, 2013

I'm a direct entry grad and I do not have a BSN. My program was RN-MSN. It was never an issue when I applied for jobs. I am an FNP, and I really don't think it's much of an issue in the outpatient setting.
Good luck!

Thank you for sharing. That's great to hear. And you went to BC? That's my top choice! Mainly because it's the shortest program. Did you like it?

nursetim, NP · Mar 23, 2013

I have a BA in criminal justice, was a diploma nurse, and got my NP. I inquired at UNCW about their dnp program. The receptionist, I think she was, stated matter-of-factly that I absolutely had to have a BSN in order to get in the program. I was speechless. I have a masters degree for God sakes. Someone a little higher on the food chain denied this. As long as I had my masters and all the other requirements, I was good to go.

I think if you have an MSN, that trumps a BSN.

Born_2BRN · Mar 28, 2013

From my understanding is that there many schools offer RN-MSN programs focus on education or administrative. Correct me if I'm wrong none offer in primary care in clinical setting. To obtain degree as NP in clinical setting one must obtain or hold BSN degree first. I never wanted to teach or do administrative work therefore I opted for BSN instead of MSN. Recently I got accepted to BSN-DNP program. I believe education of RN-BSN and RN-MSN has different approach. RN-BSN focus on clinical aspect while RN-MSN is not. I might wrong though but that how I perceive it.

mzaur · Mar 29, 2013

Sorry but you are quite wrong. I'm applying to 6 programs that are NP and do not give BSN. Most direct entry NP programs just give RN and MSN. These are clinical programs that lead to Np licensure

Born_2BRN · Mar 29, 2013

Please explain! I'm not sure if I understand what you mean by they do not give BSN but RN and MSN.

allnurses Guide · Mar 29, 2013

Please explain! I'm not sure if I understand what you mean by they do not give BSN but RN and MSN.

Many "direct-entry" programs admit students with bachelors degrees in other fields and allow those individuals to sit for the NCLEX without a BSN, they can then progress directly or indirectly to a MSN.

allnurses Guide · Mar 29, 2013

Many "direct-entry" programs admit students with bachelors degrees in other fields and allow those individuals to sit for the NCLEX without a BSN, they can then progress directly or indirectly to a MSN.

Exactly! I had a bachelors and master's in a non-nursing field. I went through the equivalent of an ADN program my first year of school and then sat for NCLEX and became licensed as a RN. I then completed the rest of the program and earned a MSN as an FNP. I've practicing as an NP for 4 years-not as an administrator or an educator. There are many such programs out there. Many schools also have bridge programs were an experienced RN (ADN) can directly enter a Master's Program without every obtaining a BSN.

Mzaur-I did like BC. The program was extremely rigorous, but well worth it. Good luck!

MrChicagoRN, RN · Mar 29, 2013

Hi everyone,
. I am wondering about any potential issues that may arise if I attend a program that does not give a BSN in terms of getting a job in the field?
Thank you

As long as you have the MSN, I doubt anyone in the job marketplace will care if you don't have a BSN

Born_2BRN · Mar 29, 2013

Thanks for educating me. I had no idea there are such programs. I'm doing it in a traditional way though the only way I know. I never had BS in another field so that wouldn't work for me either.