Need some advice on accelerated RN or second degree programs

JenW · Nov 11, 2003

I'm also considering one of these programs. At this point, I'm going to go for the ADN program at my local community college, but I would be finished MUCH quicker if I did an accelerated or second-degree program, and I would have a BSN rather than an ADN. (I already have a Bachelors in Anthropology.) My issue is the time commitment. The ADN program I'm currently planning on entering can be done part-time, so I would be able to work full-time and take care of my 3-year-old daughter and child-to-be (due in March). The accelerated programs would mean I would have to quit work. Not sure about that yet.

So, sorry that I can't answer your questions. I'll just be keeping my eyes on this thread.

pugluvnrn · Nov 11, 2003

Hi!

I think the best bet is to go through a community college for your ADN, that's about 4 semesters after prerequisites are completed.

Then, if you want a BSN, you can go through an accelerated program although BEWARE, they are expensive.

By the way, just because you have a Bachelors in one area does not mean that with an associates degree you have a BSN, it's a completely different degree. the BSN has many special classes such as research, leadership, management, pathophysiology, etc.

I received my ADN at a community college, then went through an RN to BSN program through a local university, that took 2 years. The accelerated program was only 6 months shorter and was about $5,000 more so I didn't do it ( didn't want to take out student loans or come out of it in debt).

AND most hospitals don't pay any more $$ if you have your BSN if you are a staff nurse (although it adds points to your clinical ladder and will eventually help you get raises)

Hope this information helps!:)

hawaiit · Nov 11, 2003

I took DR. Frys' program of study guides for the Excelsior ASN program. His program was called the Professional Develolopement System School of Health Sciences, RNFASTTRACK. It was great for me, helped me get all As' and I dearly wanted to continue on with the program he had to finish the additional courses to do Excelsiors BSN program. Unfortunately he closed that program to start up West Haven University and its own degree programs. So I am looking for anyone who might have those study guides that I might puchase from them? If anyone knows an Excelsior BSN graduate that might have them please contact me at [email protected]

balticbreeze · Nov 11, 2003

Thanks for your response!

Originally posted by JenW
My issue is the time commitment. The ADN program I'm currently planning on entering can be done part-time, so I would be able to work full-time and take care of my 3-year-old daughter and child-to-be (due in March). The accelerated programs would mean I would have to quit work. Not sure about that yet.

Yes, I've heard those programs are tough and there is absolutely no time for anything else but studying. I also have a daughter (1.5yrs old) and not being able spending enough time with her worries me.

Ilze

balticbreeze · Nov 11, 2003

Thank you for information!

Originally posted by pugluvnrn
Hi!
By the way, just because you have a Bachelors in one area does not mean that with an associates degree you have a BSN, it's a completely different degree. the BSN has many special classes such as research, leadership, management, pathophysiology, etc.
I received my ADN at a community college, then went through an RN to BSN program through a local university, that took 2 years.
Hope this information helps!:)

To my understanding accelerated BSN is a slightly different program from the one you mentioned(RN to BSN). There are couple of schools offering the type I was talking about, Johns Hopkins Uni for instance offers "Accelerated baccalaureate option - Available to students who possess a bachelor's degree or higher in any major other than nursing"

http://www.son.jhmi.edu/academic_programs/undergrad/undergraduate.asp

I know they are very expensive!

Thanks again for you advice!

PJMommy · Nov 11, 2003

I'd just add that I am finishing a 12 month BSN accelerated program in December. I also have four children aged 11 and younger - so an accelerated program with children absolutely can be done. Of course, my husband is incredibly supportive so that helps tremendously.

Your story is very interesting and I can't help but wonder how great a nursing educator you would be with your teaching background. If this appeals to you, get the BSN and work on a MS later...maybe while you are working in the hospital.

The accelerated programs are expensive but, in many cases, local hospitals will foot the bill in exchange for a 3-5 year work committment.

Dragonnurse1, ASN, RN · Nov 11, 2003

Before you make any decisions you need to decide whether you are wanting to nurse or be management. Start with an ADN or ASN depending on where you settle. In some states you are required to have BSN to practice, also some specialities require BSN. I went ASN here in Alabama in program that was 23 months. I made same money as BSN as staff nurse. Problem we had was BSN's that thought that they were better than ASN's:o Try to stay away from accel. programs 1-they tend to be tougher and 2-often they try to wash out anyone they think can't make it. :confused:

Good luck and in the meantime READ READ and READ everything you can get your hands on pertaining to medicine.

hawaiit · Nov 11, 2003

Hi,

I believe Excelsior College will probably have what your looking for and they can be reached on the web by typing in their name.

Good Luck, Jennifer

PennyLane, RN · Nov 11, 2003

I started a 16 month program in September. If your intention is to get a BSN, I wouldn't recommend starting with the Associates Degree. You already have a degree, prob. have many of the pre-reqs done, and as you said you can finish and get your BSN in less time than it would take for the ADN.

As for having time for your daughter, there are many, many students in my class who have children. It is about equivalent to working a full-time job. I'm in school 6-9 Monday night, 11:30-1:30 Tuesday, 11-5 Wed & Thurs, and 9-2 Friday. Then you have to add on going to lab to practice, and studying at home. It all comes out to about a 40-hour work week.

Money is a factor, esp. at Johns Hopkins. But the woman I spoke with there said the average student ends up about $25,000 in debt at the end of it (that is unless you can pay cash up front!) They have a great financial aid office and have a lot of money to offer their students. I go to a state school that is a lot less expensive, but will still be about that much in debt at the end, because the states have no money for their students!!!