amymatey

Thanks for your feedback. I guess I will apply for both and see where I get in (that might be the determining factor anyway). A few comments: It is interesting that the pay scale is the same. I need to learn more about Masters programs in my area. Should I decide to pursue a Masters down the road, it would be interesting to know how my BS in Biology factors in. I took courses like Pharmacology and Immunology--it's not as if I majored in English Lit. My sister-in-law told me that her BS in Psychology helped her land a job after she became an RN. Just wondering if the BSN is the requirement for hiring preference or whether the BS in another field gives you any edge whatsoever...?? Thankfully it's not an all-or-nothing decision. I can always go back to school and add the BSN later. Thanks so much!

I am new to this site and am hoping you can help me get a clearer picture about my options. I am currently finishing up prerequisite classes and am planning to apply for nursing school in the Spring of 2012. I am torn as to whether I ought to go take the path of RN or BSN. I already have a BS in Biology from a reputable university. Is it really all that critical for my career to have another Bachelor's degree? Obviously, one must have the BSN to become an NP, but if that isn't the path I choose, is the BSN even very advantageous? It's not as if I am lazy! The reason I am debating is that I still have kiddos at home who need me, and the BSN option is an accelerated program that would really require substantial sacrifices by my family. Additionally, the BSN degree is significantly more expensive than the RN (ADN) option, at least in my neck of the woods. I wonder whether the return is worth it. Then again, I am fairly ambitious...and I don't want to limit my options. Help, please! Amy