Cheezy

Thanks for your insight Agenyc! You can in fact get a MSN without a BSN, through one of those programs that I mentioned in my first post. Those programs are primarily for people who have bachelors in fields that are not nursing, which allows for not needing a BSN. I just want to know what are the pro and cons of entering either a combined BSN/MSN program or a master's entry program that does not give you a BSN.

Hey everyone! I'm new to the forum, and it was so wonderful to discover this site and find so many people in the same, confused boat as I am. Anyway, I'll just cut to the chase. I've been doing a lot of research on 2nd degree BSN/direct entry MSN programs, trying to find schools that offer this combined program in which individuals who already have bachelors degrees (though not in nursing) can earn a BSN (accelerated) and soon after, can directly enter the school's MSN program. (ie. Columbia, JHU, University of Pennsylvania) But amidst my research, I found that there are also schools that have similar accelerated, direct entry MSN programs that do not offer a BSN degree. The first 1 or 2 years are meant to prepare you for licensure, and after that, you enter a master's specialty of your choice at that same school. (ie. University of Washington, Yale, UCSF) Could anyone help shed light on whether there is a true difference in these two paths? Is it all that necessary to hold a BSN if you're going to earn a MSN anyway? Will not holding a BSN result in any drawbacks, such as lower pay, difficulty in getting employed, etc.? Thanks so much, and I appreciate any responses! Take care all!