Need Help with Finding the Right Path

Nurses Career Support

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Hello all,

I am getting really discouraged with my efforts to becoming a nurse.

I already have a BA in psychology and wish to be an RN. Then after working for a few years complete my education by becoming a FNP.

I have applied to several BSN accelerated programs and have not heard back from some of them yet, but the few that I have I did not get in to. I believe that this is because my overall GPA was not very high, although in all my nursing prereq. classes I have a 4.0.

I'm now thinking of just doing a traditional RN program but I'm not sure if I should go for a BSN or ADN. Will this decision affect my later wanting to go into a masters program?

I'm 26 now and didn't want to be in a 3 year program, especially since I have already had 4 years of school. I feel like this is a never ending endeavor. I was also thinking about doing a direct entry masters program, but since I'm not getting into any accelerated BSN programs, I probably wouldn't get in to that sort of program either.

I'm looking at any programs in CA, Denver, or Des Moines.

I have always wanted to be a nurse, but my university didn't offer a program. I don't really have a plan B for my life, so I would really appreciate some guidance from all of you that have been there.

Thank you so much! :banghead:

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You could go the ADN route since you have your BA and then do a bridge program to the FNP. At least I've heard of nursing programs that help those with backgrounds such as yours bridge to an MSN. Once you get your ADN, I would consider getting some clinical experience prior to going back for your FNP. This would strenghten you foundationally. Enrollment in nursing school is difficult because the availability of instructors in decreasing. Best wishes!

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Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

AshBlonde,

I would recommend just biting the bullet and going for the BSN... you'll have to plow through it anyway - on your way to your goal of FNP. it won't take 4 years because I am sure you already have some pre-reqs that will transfer from your previous degree. Unfortunately, you will be caught in the BA to BS 'gap'... and have to take all the hard science and math that was not included in your BA. I have been there!!! My first degree was a BA in journalism. :icon_roll

I know that it may seem discouraging to have to invest more years to get into nursing - but you are still a BABY!!! Even if it takes a couple more years.. at 28, you'll still be among the youngest in your nursing class. Our average nursing student is in mid 30's now.

It's best not to rush the process too fast -- don't try to leap into a graduate program until you really know where your heart is. Sometimes we are more attracted to the 'idea' of a thing than the actuality of it... like your degree in psych? Or my decision to get a real curly perm???

Best wishes and good luck on your new adventure.

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Specializes in Management, Emergency, Psych, Med Surg.

Re BSN vs. ADN it depends on how much time you have and how quick you want money. If you need money quicker, go ADN. If you have a BSN it is easier to get a management job later. It is usually the minimum requirement. However, if you have a degree in another field, a BSN may not be necessary for you. What would be the reason for your wanting to get an MSN? What do you want to do in nursing with an advanced degree? Only you can assess this for yourself. My suggestion since you already have another degree is to go ADN right now and get some experience under your belt. You can always go back to school later. You have plenty of time. Diane

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Don't feel discouraged. I was in your situation as well. I have a BA in biology and applied to a BSN program that I'm in now. It took me about 2 years to get into my program because I had to pull up my GPA. I would suggest the 2nd bachelor's because even if you decide not to go for the MSN, or you decide not to get it right away, at least you have the BSN and you can get the management positions like the other poster said. I think the BSN will give you more options. In the meantime, you can work in a position with your psych background and earn a decent pay (maybe Mental Health Worker, Case Worker, Clinical Research Assistant?)

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