roadrunr

Thank you for the very nice, informative response. I really appreciate the information. The reason for my considering a switch is that after 25 years of software development it gets a little stale. I feel I do not touch anyone's life in what I do for a living. I have been volunteering at Methodist Hospital for over a year now and like helping out with some of the patient care. It is rewarding. Thank you again for the response. I wish you the very best.

bne03 I am taking Microbiology this semester (last pre-req for accelerated BSN) and had a few questions about the program. What semester are you in right now? What makes it so time consuming? Tests, papers, clinicals, etc...? How are the instructors? Are they supportive, knowledgeable? Where do you do your clinicals (which hospitals?). I am planning on applying for the January 2010 semester. I am still not sure I want to make this change (I work as a software developer and have a degree in Computer Science). Thanks in advance for the info. Also what is average age in your class? How many males?

There are now 3 classes per year for the accelerated program. I would think that with more than one class per year it would make it a little less competitive. Below is a link to the website which should answer a lot your questions. http://nursing.iupui.edu/degrees/absn/index.shtml

You would be amazed at how many people are on anti-depressants (me included). Fill out the questionnaire honestly. It should not make any difference.

I am a 46 year old man who has worked as an application's developer for many years and have thought about switching to nursing as a career. I have always liked the idea of caring for people (especially the elderly). I have taken several of the pre-requisites for the accelerated nursing program (18 month to BSN with a previous degree) and have volunteered at a local hospital to try to get a feel for the medical field. So far I have to admit to feeling a bit discouraged. In my short time of volunteering I have run into many unhappy nurses (you can see it on their faces). Some are downright unfriendly. How does one know if something is the right choice? I am not really stresed at my current job but am bored alot and feel like I don't make much of a difference in the world. Also the layoff specter is ever present and I feel nursing would allow for some job security.