Just starting out

ckh23, BSN, RN · Apr 25, 2011

You can get a BSN right away if you get accepted into a BSN program, usually offered at a University and not the local community college. If you go the community college route, then you can graduate, get registered, and then do an RN-BSN program.

No way to know if your pre-reqs will count or not, only the college you attend can answer that for you. When you apply to different programs and submit your past transcript than they will evaluate them to see if they are accepted.

Double-Helix, BSN, RN · Apr 25, 2011

Just to clarify- An RN stands for Registered Nurse and it is the title obtained after passing the RN licensing exam (NCLEX). You can get either an Associates in Nursing (usually two years) or a Bachelors in Nursing (usually four years unless it's an accelerated program). No matter which degree you have, the title of RN and the licensing test is the same.

It's definately possible to get a BSN right away. Some of your pre reqs might transfer, but chances are you will have to retake several. This would depend entirely on the college you choose. A BSN degree would take longer to obtain than an AN, but depending on where you live, it may be easier to find a job with a BSN.

What is it about nursing that interests you? Right now, it is not easy to find a job in nursing with no experience. If you are going to nursing school because you think it will be a good way to get a good paying job, you might want to rethink returning to school right now. There are many nurses who graduated one or more years ago who are still looking for work.

Good luck!

Ashley

MelissaJ · Apr 26, 2011

Hello and welcome...

I am your age as well. I am going back to school in the fall, hopefully in an ASN program. I have previously completed my pre reqs as well. All my science should go through since it has been less than 8 years, which is the time frame for the program I am applying to.

I just wanted to say hey and tell you we are in the same place. Here it is easier to get into the ASN program then bridge for the BSN. That is my plan.

What state are you in?

JEP2011 · Apr 28, 2011

Hello!

One thing that you might want to consider is getting the two year degree and then doing an RN to BSN program. We had several "non-traditional" students in my BSN program and we also had many RN to BSN students toward the end. This way you can work as a 2 year prepared RN and work on additional education while you're working!

Good luck!!

KristeyK · May 2, 2011

Another thought for you....if you want to go BEYOND a BSN, you could always get your two year degree, then do a bridge program to get a MSN. (Depending on what it is you'd want to do with your advanced education. Some areas require a BSN to awarded, some don't. Also keep in mind if you want to go into advanced practice nursing, you'll need a doctorate 2013 and beyond...)

Good luck!