Do you need your BSN before you become an NP?

[Louisepug]

Hi guys! I will be starting nursing school this fall, but I'm always thinking ahead ! I have an interest in possibly pursuing the NP role someday. My question is this; when I'm done with nursing school I'll have my ADN in nursing. After I get my liscence, can I then go on and get my NP liscence, or do I need to get my BSN first? Also, what if I already have a BA in another field (communications,) and my ADN in nursing? Do I still need a BSN? Just trying to figure out the best route! Thanks so much!! :) Louisepug

[myelin]

I know a nurse who has a lot of RN experience, but got her education online at a degree mill. She is having a really hard time getting hired because employers don't think much of her program. I'm just saying that there are multiple ways to make yourself a more (or less) competitive applicant, and not having a lot of bedside experience won't necessary limit you, if you can prove yourself competitive in other aspects.

[phillycpnp-pc, MSN, RN, NP]

I am currently in a PNP program. I started after having 4 years of acute care peds experience and by the time i'm done i will have 7 1/2 yrs of experience. Looking ahead, i have looked up entry level PNP positions to see how the job market is. Some positions will take NP new grads but require 2-5 yrs of pediatric RN experience in a particular area, critical care, endocrine, GI, etc. I am not discouraging anyone....i think its great you know exactly what you want to do out of nursing school. I didn't know what out of my nursing career and that's why waited 4 years. Like someone else mentioned, if u start right away by the time your done you will have about 2 yrs of experience under your belt, if u work during grad school.