LPN with MBA

llg, PhD, RN · Feb 11, 2015

I don't know of any ADN to DNP programs -- though that doesn't guarantee that one doesn't exist. You're going to have to spend several years in school to get that doctorate. How far into to ADN program are you? It would probably be faster for you to switch to an RN program designed for people with at least a Bachelor's in another discipline -- such as an accelerated BSN or a direct-entry MSN. That would cut a year or two off of your school time. There are also some BSN programs that offer concurrent enrollment with ADN programs. (You take some nursing courses at the ADN school and the BSN courses simultaneously, getting your BSN after only 1 or 2 semeters after your ADN).

It sounds to me as if you are investing too much time getting your ADN when you could be using that same time (or just a tiny bit more) to get to the BSN level.

Are you sure you want to do this? I will be 60 years old in a couple of months -- and starting to think seriously about planning my retirement, recognizing that there are certain career moves and goals that "just don't fit" my stage of life at this point. I will probably work full time for another 4-5 years, but I wouldn't want to be just graduating from school at 65 and starting a whole new career -- particularly one that is known to be especially stressful and involve long hours.

caliotter3 · Feb 11, 2015

If you want the advanced degree for the pleasure of having attained it, great. But I would not count on being able to use it in employment. At your age, age discrimination in employment is very real, especially for someone with limited experience. With no RN experience at this point, you would be asking a lot to step into a role that properly utilizes a DNP degree. Good luck.

aej1215 · Feb 11, 2015

Thanks for replying. As you can see from above a Doctorate would be icing on the cake. I'm one of those nuts who actually likes taking classes. So I will take BS/MSM unless I can find BS/MSN/PhD program. I do need my RN asap because my husband is ill and we don't know what the future holds for us so I have to be able to take care of both of us and can't do that on LPN salary.

HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD · Feb 12, 2015

There aren't any legitimate doctoral programs that do not require a step-wise educational progression... the "accelerated" programs simply substitute a higher level course for the under-grad equivalent. Getting that MSN is 'easy peasy' compared to doctoral requirements.... BTDT. You can teach with an MSN, particularly if you're 'in progress' with doctoral coursework. I would recommend moving on with the MSN if you're looking for non-clinical employment.

But I would NOT recommend going the "NP" route. The curriculum is focused (rightly so) on clinical care and management... not on admin/operational knowledge & skills that are required to qualify for higher level support roles. If your MBA is via a generic, well-structured program, it will add value. If it is from a 'boutique' program.. not so much.

One strong caveat -- without an undergrad RN degree, you may run into unanticipated obstacles with license mobility. Most state NPAs have specific requirements for basic licensure that include an undergrad nursing degree from an accredited school. If so, they would not grant reciprocity if you are an MSN entry into practice.

I wish I could refute PP claims that age discrimination is alive and well - but I can't. However, I think it is much lower in academia - because there is such a growing shortage of clinical faculty. This may be an area that you want to investigate.