I'm looking to getting into the nursing field via an unusual route.
I have a B.A. in Political Science, and was laid off by the State of Arizona this past year. As part of the Phoenix Workforce program, I am being offered a full-scholarship to a 10-month LPN training program. They will pay for all my tuition, books, shots, uniforms, etc. I also will be allowed to collect unemployment. Its a really great offer.
I was wondering with my B.A. degree, what would be the next step to becoming a RN? Does it make most sense to go directly from the LPN program to a ARN program?
Or could I go for a Master's? Is this a good path or am I selling myself short?
I also have pending job offers from the Federal Government, but have gotten sick of the waiting, and am really considering the LPN program. I've been talking to everyone I know about it, and have only days to make up my mind. Do I make the leap?
Oh, I see, I thought you were interested because of the offer, I didn't realize you were already interested.
For your next step... there are LPN to RN bridge prgrams or you might look into skipping the RN and doing a second degree BSN since you already have a bachelor's degree. I haven't looked at much MSN info so I don't know what they need... if they need a BSN and don't need an RN, it might be better to go with the second degree BSN unless you want to work as an LPN while you study for the other degee(s). Because by the time you do the transistion steps between LPN and RN and then RN and BSN, the second degree BSN might be better even considering the scholarship.
If I were in your shoes, I'd talk to the advisors at the MSN programs before deciding. If I couldn't, then I'd comb through the websites of those schools.
When the poster says "skipping the RN" she means an ADN program (associates degree of nursing program) and going straight to second degree BSN (baccalaureate of science in nursing program). Graduates of an ADN program are considered registered nurses :)
Just clarifying for the sake of the OP!
To the OP: it sounds like a fabulous opportunity! Jump on it!!
IHeartPeds87
542 Posts
When the poster says "skipping the RN" she means an ADN program (associates degree of nursing program) and going straight to second degree BSN (baccalaureate of science in nursing program). Graduates of an ADN program are considered registered nurses :)
Just clarifying for the sake of the OP!
To the OP: it sounds like a fabulous opportunity! Jump on it!!