Looking for a timeline

Apple-Core, ASN, BSN, RN · Jan 27, 2017

I'm interested in becoming an asn/RN. Right now I'm finishing up a phlebotomy course and after this I'm going to be taking a CNA course to get all the clinical experience I can before actually going to school, and then I'm going to start taking pre-reqs. Long story short, I'm a HUGE planner and I'd like to figure out an accurate timeline for when I'd be able to finish my asn degree and start working. My question: How long does it (actually) take to finish an asn program? Logically my research has told me 2 years, but realistically I'm planning on 3. How long did it take you guys?

This all depends on the pre-reqs that your college of choice demands, and how heavy a workload you are comfortable with carrying.

For example, to enter the ADN/ASN program at my local community college, there are 4 major pre-reqs. (ENG, CHEM, BIO, MAT). That is going to be fairly comparable to most community colleges, give or take. Some of those classes (especially the MAT) may require pre-reqs also, which will extend the length of time it takes to get your pre-reqs. However, if you worked diligently I imagine you could complete all your pre-reqs within 12-18 months.

Once you have your pre-reqs, the actual ADN takes a further 2 years, on average, depending on your school. Most colleges will have a waiting list, sometimes as long as 3 years. Your other option would be to apply for a competitive entry program, which will look at your GPA and so forth.

I don't know exactly where you're at in terms of credits, or exactly what your college asks for a pre-nursing student, but I would say you can expect to complete an ASN in 2-4 years depending on those various factors.

Where do you live? Check out the college website; they will most likely list the pre-reqs so you know what to aim for. Also, go in and speak with a nursing advisor to give you a more accurate timeline and study pathway.

Good luck to you!

applesxoranges, BSN, RN · Jan 27, 2017

It depends on your school. The schools in my area require the pre-reqs to be done and then to apply for admission into the program. They do it based off of points. For me, I was admitted into my ADN program and had a time frame of 1 year. I did 1 year of pre-reqs and then I started the ADN portion which is 2 years. I planned ahead and completed the general education credits for OU. I took a 3 month break and then applied to OU's RN to BSN program. I worked hard and completed it in about 8 months.

Logically, your time frame should be about 3 years. Most associate degree programs would say 2 years but either there is a waiting list or you apply based off of points. Those with more points (usually based off of the grades) get in quicker. When there was a waiting list, I knew people who graduated from a BSN program before the community college called them to see if they wanted to start their ADN clinicals.

My advice is to find three to five programs and figure out what pre-reqs you will need. Then to apply to all the programs.