Need Advice Picking the Right BSN Path

[Auberry72]

I'm having a tough time picking the right path for me to get my BSN, and I definitely need some advice!

I was recently accepted into the Community College of Philadelphia Nursing program for the Fall 2016 semester. It's a 2 year Associate of Applied Science in Nursing. After getting my ADN, I planned on enrolling in an RN-BSN bridge program offered by a number of schools in the area.

However, my A&P professor this semester is trying to talk me out of going to CCP for nursing and just going straight into a BSN program at a university. She seems to feel that where you go for your education really matters due to the competitive nature of the nursing field right now, and I definitely see logic in that. Would any of you agree that it matters in the long-run where you get your nursing education, in terms of job prospects?

If I don't go to CCP, I plan to apply to Thomas Jefferson University's Prelicensure Track degree option, which is 2 years. I have about 7 more pre-reqs to fulfill, so I have to wait until the Fall so I can apply to the Fall 2017 admission.

I'm so torn because I'm already in a nursing program that is affordable and in a location that I feel comfortable with, and I know that I would continue my education to get my BSN after I'm done with CCP. I have the determination to do so. But I'm wondering if it's worth the wait to try and get into Jefferson, which is, from what I hear, one of the best nursing schools in the region. What do you all think?

For reference, Jefferson's minimum GPA requirement is 3.0. I currently hold a 3.94 at the Community College of Philadelphia, so I feel that I would be a competitive candidate for TJU's program.

I'm just so confused about what the better option is Any and all advice is appreciated! I really have to make a decision soon because my decision will affect the courses I'll be taking this upcoming Fall of 2016. I'll either stay in CCP and take my nursing courses, or try for Jefferson and complete the remaining necessary pre-reqs.

Sorry if this post is a ramble. Again, I'm confused.

[winniegirl92]

I have my BSN from a university, however when I did my job search I noticed that it doesn't matter, as much as you think, what school you go to. What people are interested in is your degree and your experience. I think if it is financially fitting that you do the ccp, as long as your committed to getting your BSN after. I think you will find it harder these days to get an RN position with just your associates versus having your BSN.

[YSL-444]

I also have my BSN. I believe it would be better to go on BSN; most hospitals prefer BSN graduate. Holy Family University offers presidential scholarship for students with good GPA (your GPA will definitely get-in) aside from the FAFSA grant that you might get. You might save something now, but you'll still end up going to BSN, so why not go there directly. There is nothing to lose if you inquire. Good luck to you and I hope this helps.