LPN then BSN

Published

Hey, I've been looking through a lot of threads on here lately and finally decided to join. I think this is a good place for extra insight. So I'm currently a freshman at Wayne State University, majoring in pre-nursing. I've always wanted to be a nurse and get my BSN. After doing a little research and reading through some threads I got the impression that being LPN would be a great foundation for my BSN. Is that true? I know I've heard that they're being phased out, but that's not my ultimate goal. I ultimately want to obtain my MSN. But I really want to start working in the field now. And lpn only takes a year. So I was thinking that I could finish my pre reqs then go and do the lpn program. Work for a little bit to get financially stable and then go back to school to get my BSN. Is that a good idea? How long would it take?

I appreciate all answers and comments, I just want some outside input before I make a decision. Thanks!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

This is 100% my opinion but with how strong they are pushing BSNs lately (From what I have heard in school/looking for jobs) I would say get a job in a hospital system and pursue your BSN. Many hospitals want to hire internally and are happy to hire clerks/ES/PCA/PCT if they know you are going with the goal to get on their unit as a nurse. I got a PCT job in the last year of my nursing school and it is the best thing I could have ever done. Not only did I learn valuable skills, but showing my manager I was dedicated to my patients, willing to learn, and happy to go the extra mile, which opened up so many doors for me. I do not have years of RN experience yet, but in a few years when I apply to grad school I think I still will be happy I didn't spend that extra year between, such as an LPN when I could still work in patient care and not have a period between licensings.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in geriatrics, IV, Nurse management.

Lpns are not being phased out. It has been a rumour for years. It would be a great wealth of knowledge to get it before your BSCN.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Pediatrics, Emergency, Trauma.

As a LPN-turned BSN, it did serve a great foundation in my BSN education; however, if you are already at a university and are taking your pre-req's, you are in a position to get into a BSN program and obtain a job in healthcare as another poster described; you do not have to become an LPN prior to getting your BSN education; in fact, if you decide to go that route, you are putting distance in time to your goal of becoming a RN through BSN program.

PN school is VERY rigorous; they are compacting a TON of information into one year; you also have to pass the NCLEX-PN prior to working as a LPN. I worked as a LPN for five years before going back for my BSN an worked while getting the BSN.

If I was well knowledgable going into my nursing education, I would've chosen a BSN program; I love my path, but it's certainly not for everyone.

I encourage your to stay in the program, aim high, get a job in healthcare if you must (though not required) and get into the BSN program, and keep learning from this site.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in LTC, Agency, HHC.
As a LPN-turned BSN, it did serve a great foundation in my BSN education; however, if you are already at a university and are taking your pre-req's, you are in a position to get into a BSN program and obtain a job in healthcare as another poster described; you do not have to become an LPN prior to getting your BSN education; in fact, if you decide to go that route, you are putting distance in time to your goal of becoming a RN through BSN program.

PN school is VERY rigorous; they are compacting a TON of information into one year; you also have to pass the NCLEX-PN prior to working as a LPN. I worked as a LPN for five years before going back for my BSN an worked while getting the BSN.

If I was well knowledgable going into my nursing education, I would've chosen a BSN program; I love my path, but it's certainly not for everyone.

I encourage your to stay in the program, aim high, get a job in healthcare if you must (though not required) and get into the BSN program, and keep learning from this site.

^^^ Agree, agree!! I was also a LPN and went through a LPN-BSN program.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion