ASN or BSN???

[pmarieee]

I recently got accepted into both an ASN program and a BSN program (UCLA). My mom is worried that UCLA is going to be too expensive, and wants me to consider the ASN program. My ultimate career goal is to get my masters and become an NP. In the long run which program would be better for me? Both financially and academically??

[sir.shocksalot]

I would go for the BSN. The initial costs may be higher (you can offset them with loans as needed) but it will pay off faster. My understanding is that ASN graduates are having a tough time finding jobs right now, and hospitals are hiring mostly BSNs or RNs with a decent amount of acute care experience.

Also if your long term goal is an MSN or DNP then a BSN is a prerequisite to that; there doesn't seem to be a lot of logic in going to get your ASN then your BSN if you can simply skip the first step. Good luck in your decision.

[UVA Grad Nursing]

I would also agree to go for the BSN. Not only are ASN graduates having a hard time finding a job, but many employers are also cutting back their education benefits (so getting them to pay for the RN-BSN program might be tougher). One Magnet hospital in my city cut tuition benefits from $5000 per year to only $600 per year in this economic downturn.

[leenak]

I would go to UCLA. I graduated from a UC myself and think they are still a relative bargain in terms of educational costs. You will be further along towards your end goal along with having a good education.

[Student4_life]

UC>CC

[soxgirl2008]

Id say go for the BSN if it's possible financially, especially since you know you want to get your masters. They do have straight ADN-MSN programs, but if you can get your BSN right away go for it.

I've heard the job market out in cali is extremely tough whether you're an ADN grad or a BSN grad, but by the time you graduate it could turn around.

[mariposabella]

The above posters are right you should definitely go for a BSN program.

[jgamom]

I would definitely go with the BSN as many hospitals are seeking magnet status. All of our local hospitals (Washington, DC area) are now requiring current LPNs and ADNs to acquire their BSN to keep magnet status.

On a side note, are you a CA resident? In state tuition at UC schools is much cheaper than other states. Plus, UCLA is a great school. You can't beat it! Good luck.

[GOODMED]

bsn of course.it is a wise investment as other posts said.

my daughter will also apply to ucla, and csu's as well.

@leenak what was it like at ucla nursing program in term of difficulties, find job, finished in 4 year? , and available classes (i know csulb is very crowded and hard to get classes), and other pro and con? hope we can get in with some scholarships too.

what was the total costs there?