Online programs, RN (BA) to BSN and APN

[wincha]

I'm looking for the quickest program and least expensive online to obtain my BSN and then move to the APN. I see RN to BSN programs and have seen a RN to MSN program but it is not for APN nor is it online. I am in Missouri. I am considering a career change and have been out of clinical nursing for 15 years, in administration for insurance (case and disease management) and cannot stand it any longer. I am looking to return to school. But since I'm in my 50's and have children who will be going to college soon, I have to look at finances and how long this will take to complete these programs. Also, I am seeing some instate programs are only offering the Doctor level progam for nurse practioners. Will a Doctorate be required?

I have found the RN to BSN online program ( 1 year) for University of Central Missouri as the fastest at a reasonable price. Do I need to go through a Missouri school?

I don't see many choices for myself career wise getting out of the insurance area and would like to have a job that I like. It sounds like NP's are still needed. I don't want to go to school and then not be employable though as new grads are having issues with getting jobs. I need to make a change soon though due to my age. Who knows when we will be able to retire with all of these health care changes.

[DNPpat]

Lucky you; you have lots of choices. There are many RN to MSN programs, including some with APRN options. Virtually all have some online work; others are nearly all online (with your precepted clinical experience in your own geographic locale). I would strongly advise against looking for the cheapest program. Obviously cost is a factor, but you want a high quality educational experience for your own sanity, and you want to offer your patients care based on expertise. As long as you select an accredited program, all MSN programs are inclusive of the BSN content. Some (but not all) allow you to exit at the appropriate time with your BSN if your circumstances have changed; others do not, so again, you have to investigate.

Start here for a some information and a 2010 listing of RN to MSN programs (not all offer an NP option, so you need to do your research)

American Association of Colleges of Nursing | Degree Completion Programs for Registered Nurses: RN to Master's Degree and RN to Baccalaureate Programs

http://www.aacn.nche.edu/research-data/RNMSN.pdf

You should be aware that there is increasing pressure for nurse practitioners to have a doctoral degree (DNP). This is not a requirement, but something you might want to read up about before you make a choice.