I have been accepted to an ADN program for Fall 2010, but I am also applying to an entry-level Master's program and will hopefully hear back in May. My dilemma is I feel conflicted about choosing one over the other. I have a B.A. in Human Development with an emphasis in health services, and my prior work experience has been in social services and non-profits/group homes. Since I have no experience as a nurse or even in a clincal setting (not counting a residential treatment facility/group home---I am talking about hospital, etc) would it be better to get my ADN/RN, work a bit, and then continue my education along the way? Or, if I were to be accepted to the EL-MSN program---is it better to come out after 3 years with an advanced degree (this program offers NP or CSN tracks) with no practical/work experience? (I could theoretically work as an RN while finishing the MSN portion, but that's not a given). I just feel like both have advantages. With the ADN---less time to complete, MUCH cheaper (like $4,000 versus close to $30,000), and more flexibility for working part-time during school (from what I have been told---like 15 hrs per week considered doable). With MSN---I come out with an advanced degree, BSN and RN in just 3 years....and I like the idea of being "specialized" or having an advanced degree, since I have always seen myself going for a Masters in the human services field at some point anyway.
Anyone out there in the same boat or have any advice? especially any of you who are actually working as a nurse and have any practical advice!
What if you can't get a job as a new grad rn bc there's not that many positions willing to train and decide to go back to school get the msn and gain affiliations and connections thru ur practicum. I understand if u want to be a np educator or administrator you want to obviously work on the floor. What if you want to work in a office clinic setting as a fnp ?
arose26
37 Posts
What if you can't get a job as a new grad rn bc there's not that many positions willing to train and decide to go back to school get the msn and gain affiliations and connections thru ur practicum. I understand if u want to be a np educator or administrator you want to obviously work on the floor. What if you want to work in a office clinic setting as a fnp ?