Master's Entry programs without granting BSN - disadvantage?

[celle507]

Hi all,

I am currently enrolled in a Master's Entry program that does NOT grant a BSN after the first year. We become eligible to sit for the NCLEX but they don't grant us an additional degree. Thus, I will graduate with an RN, MSN, and have a previous BA.

My question is: will not having a BSN be a disadvantage when I look for jobs as a Registered nurse (I plan on working this fall) or as an NP (when I graduate)? I know it is too late for me to change programs but I do want to be aware of what sort of barriers I will have to face.

I don't want to make this into a thread about the evils of Master's Entry programs - I don't plan on working as an NP right away and am taking time off to work as a nurse first before continuing the NP portion part-time since I do think it is important that NP's work as nurses first, especially after finishing the first year of the program.

[Tweety, BSN, RN]

I don't see how it would, if you pass NCLEX and have your RN and the Masters is in Nursing. But honestly, as those programs are rare I haven't heard much about people having problems or not having problems. But I would think on a resume MSN would look good.

Good luck to you.

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

Hmmm - good question. Personally, I don't think so. At least in my little corner of the world, the lack of experience would be the more difficult thing to overcome and it sounds like you are aware of that and addressing that. I think you will do just fine. Good luck.