Navigating ADN/BSN Limbo

RunBabyRN · Jun 16, 2014

I would strongly suggest applying everywhere you're considering. Don't limit yourself. Then you can go from there. Most programs, particularly the reputable ones, are highly impacted. However, their criteria often varies slightly, so some people have an advantage at some schools, other people the advantage at others (which is nice, because then it's not the same 50 people getting into every school).

Next, there are a ton of ADN-BSN bridge programs out there, many of which are online nowadays, so even if you "only" get your ADN, not all is lost. :)

I hope that gives you a sense of what you're in for!

Anonymous87 · Jun 17, 2014

After further investigation it would seem the ADN route is going to be difficult. The local two year institutions do not transfer their completed credits. I've been informed that I would need to complete the entire four years of curriculum to earn any bachelor degree regardless of graduating from associate programs through these particular community colleges. I might be okay with that. But only if I can work in a hospital with an ADN and they'll feel generous enough to pay for my continuing education to BSN. Does anyone know how that works exactly? It seems like too much to hope for so I wonder how realistic that outlook is.

I'll look into ADN programs but I doubt many two year colleges offer student housing. It's an idea though and I'll look into it today.

rob4546, ADN, BSN, MSN · Jun 17, 2014

I think that you need to research your specific situation in your specific area (geographical and specialty). We can only tell you what we have encountered in our area which may not be the same as in your area. Let me tell you what I chose and maybe it will give you some insight into what you could do.

I chose the ADN route. Why? Because the local BSN institutions within driving range had a 80'ish and 40'ish first time NCLEX pass rate. The ADN program had a little over 90% first time pass rate and a 100% total NCLEX pass rate. I was able to enter rather quickly because there was a little over 40 on the waiting list and I was near the top due to good GPA and entrance test scores. With scholarships and financial aid I had to spend less than 4000 to become an registered nurse (yes I passed first time). I had a job waiting for me before I graduated due to performance in the clinical setting from the great instruction I received in school (my whole class is now employed). I am currently enrolling at GCU to get my BSN while I work. My employer might help a little with my education but even if they don't I estimate only spending 20,000 for my BSN (for less than 14 months).

So yes, you can navigate the ADN route, depends on your specific area. It has worked out for me better than I even thought, but I bet you will find people that the BSN worked out better for them.... The student housing thing might be hard for an ADN program, but can you live at home to save money?

Now go out and collect the information specific area and make an informed decision. Also I learned to get the information directly from the source not from the girl that had a good or bad experience from one program or another. Don't rely on what others say about enrollment requirements etc., look and/or call the institutions and get the information first hand.

Good luck no matter what way you choose.