Looking for advice

[Jo89, LPN]

I just graduated from an LPN program. I also hold a BFA that I got when I was in my 20’s. I’m 31 now. I know eventually I want to be a nurse practitioner. My question is should I continue on at a community college and do a LPN to RN bridge program and try to work my way up from there or try to get into a direct entry masters NP Program while working as a LPN as I still need to take some prerequisites to apply. I know this is going to come down to being a personal choice but I would just like to see some other people’s opinions. Thank you. 

[Jedrnurse, BSN, RN]

Get some experience while working on pre-reqs as you said. If you choose carefully, the courses you take could apply to whichever program you're interested in. Also, working might also clarify for you the path that best meets your needs.

[JBMmom, MSN, NP]

I would also highly recommend experience through the RN bridge program. I know there are plenty of people that recommend direct entry masters but I think your RN experience could be more valuable to you, especially is you can get into a hospital, which is usually only for RNs, not LPNs. Good luck. 

[The Seasoned Nurse, BSN, RN]

The bridge program will give you time to master your bedside skills. Too many nurses go into NP school too quickly causing the profession to become diluted. The schools only have one motivation: to make money. They will push you into programs you are not ready for. Be mindful of this in your choice.

[CalicoKitty, BSN, MSN, RN]

I would see how much of the bridge you can do that will take out some of the "prerequisites" that may be required for the MSN/NP Program. I know for my bachelor's (2nd degree, and initial nursing degree), I needed to have my A&P/Microbiology "within 5 years". Also other stuff like nutrition, etc. Not sure what the reqs for NP school are, but those would help me make some choices. Plus see how much your job will help support.