Most logical route for MSN, direct entry or BSN?

[Tony1790, BSN, MSN, NP]

Hello all,

I'm finishing my BA in History this semester and I applied for and have been accepted into a local LPN program that starts in Sept. I had the option of waiting until next year while taking prereq classes and hoping that I get into an BSN degree program for 2nd degree holders (18 months) or do LPN this year and then have the option next year of the 2nd degree program or an LPN to RN bridge program.

Until very recently, I had been under the assumption that there were no direct entry MSN programs, now that I know there are, should I skip LPN and try to get into a direct entry program next year or will the LPN help me get into a program? Or would it be more logical to skip LPN, focus on BSN next year and then try a MSN program somewhere?

Sorry if this is an illogical way to go about things, I've been in a career flux recently and I'm not exactly as focused as I should be, I retired from the military, took a job as an railroad operations manager for less than a year and now I want to spend the college money that I have coming from the GI bill on something that will earn me both a good living and be transportable around the country.

Any advice??

Tony in TN

[arciedee]

The best route depends on what you want to do with the nursing career. I think the accelerated 2nd bachelors programs are great options since they get you out into the work world quickly. If you have a good idea of what you want to do in nursing (i.e. nurse practitioner, leadership, education) a direct-entry program is also a great option.

It sounds like you are thinking of taking the LPN program and then going on to an 2nd BSN or direct-entry program? Just to warn you, having the LPN may actually put you out of the running for some of these programs as they are intended for career changers. It would be best to contact schools you're interested in to see how they would view an LPN applicant. You can, of course, bridge from the LPN to an RN, but these are generally specific programs for LPNs.

I hope this helps. Congratulations on your upcoming graduation and good luck.

[anc33]

I agree with the previous poster. Forget the LPN and try to get into an accelerated BSN. Same timeframe unless you still need pre-recs. I am of the opinion that you need a few years of experience under your belt before the MSN. The BSN gives you the flexibility to explore different options before deciding if and which MSN is right for you.