New Grad. Too early to start for my Masters in NP?

BeenThereDoneThat74, MSN, RN · Dec 9, 2012

I don't think it's too early to start. I am not aware of the old vs. new standards (guess I have to look it up), but when I was considering going for the NP (but changed my mind) I figured it was going to take me three years. The first few classes are core classes anyway (at most schools), that would apply to any Masters in Nursing you are pursuing. They say once you stop going to school, its harder to get yourself motivated to go back. You may as well get used to going to school while working (unless you did that throughout your undergrad, which would then be no big deal. One class at a time, at the very least.

I think the most important thing is getting the right type of experience, suitable to what you plan on specializing in. I know that's easier said than done :/

FLmed · Dec 9, 2012

I graduated with my BSN is May, passed NCLEX in June, started my first RN job at a hospital in July, and I started my MSN in August. I have been so incredibly overwhelmed. I was learning so much on the job. Quite honestly, what you do in nursing school is not exactly what you'll do on the floor. I'm putting out little fires all day long. You'll have to call doctors for condition changes, orders, or sometimes for clarification on things. You'll have to deal with grouchy patients, their families, and doctors who do not have patience. There is so much to learn when you start your new job as a RN. I took a full load of classes, and I unfortunately had to drop 2 classes. I did finish with As in the other two classes. I have written the Dean and asked if I could take next semester off. I can't mentally do both at this stage. I'm still a baby nurse, and there's a huge learning curve. Can you do both? You are the only one to assess what you can handle. I think having experience in a hospital is critical to anybody who wants to pursue continuing education as a Nurse Practitioner.

chare · Dec 10, 2012

If the deadline you are referring to is the DNP entry to practice requirement for NPs, then you should be fine. At this time, the DNP entry to practice is only a recommendation by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN).

I am not aware of any certifying organization for nurse practitioners endorsed this. I believe, however, that the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA) has endorsed the DNP/DNAP entry to practice for CRNA certification; however this is with a 2025 implementation date.

JennabeanRN · Dec 10, 2012

When I was a new grad I wanted to go back immediately. I ended up waiting 3 years and I'm glad I did. There was no way I could have studied. I was too busy learning to be a floor nurse! Nursing was hardly like I learned in school. (theory-practice gap). I just started on my MSN 3 months ago and it helps to have experience. Where as in undergrad, I was confused about a lot of things-I understand what's going on in class now.

My friend started her MSN right out of school and she really struggled. I believe if you are the type that can really multitask and learn a lot at once, go for it.

As for that 2015 date, it is only a recommendation.