Doula2RN

Where is Highline CC? That isn't in Burien, WA is it?? I just moved away from there a year or so ago! Small world (if its the same one, that is!)

I don't have a previous bachelors, otherwise yes I would just do what you suggest. Or even a Masters Entry Level program. Have you looked into any of those? What state are you in? Also, as I said above... at least the two programs I'm looking at there is no time difference. The ADN program is 2 two years + 1 year BSN bridge. And the straight BSN is 3 years. Same degree, same university, same time. *shrug*

At least here in CA, I don't think you can get hired without your BSN. This program is streamlined as such that you don't stop to work as an RN, you go straight from your two year ADN program into your BSN. You apply at the start of your 2nd year in ADN and then start your BSN the following year. I'm not sure but since this CSU has both an ADN->BSN and an RN->BSN, I don't think you even stop to take the NCLEX, you would take it at the end of the BSN. In which case I really don't understand the student that looked down his nose at me for even considering a two year degree program, because at the end of the time its the SAME amount of time and I get the same degree from the SAME school.

My plan is to apply to any and all RN programs, casting a wide net and all. I had planned to apply to local RN programs at community colleges offering an ADN. They have a bridge program at a local CSU to do a third year BSN (this ADN->BSN bridge being different from an RN->BSN program). I thought this sounded great. It allows me to apply to several more programs (not just CSU and private universities that offer pre-licensure) and gets me a BSN in the end, which is MUCH needed here in CA. But several people in my anatomy class this semester seemed really turned off by the idea. "Why add the extra step?" is more or less their stance. While I understand that, I believe getting into the RN program is the hardest, once there doing a 3rd year BSN is relatively easy. Is there something that I am missing? Some down side to this? These students I've talked to are also younger than me and have the luxury of either commuting an hour+ away or relocating to other CSU BSN programs, so this can account for their opinion as well. I am a SAHM going back to school and my husband's job is our only source of income, so we aren't going to upset that apple cart. Just looking for some other opinions and thoughts.

Where are you located? I'm applying to Los Medanos and Contra Costa College as well as CSUEB's direct entry BSN. I have several years of previous college work too. It was in Elem. Ed. I pretty much have to throw away my previous major related coursework. I think my plan is to apply to all 3 programs, if I get in first round great! If not, then apply to CSUEB anyway and work on a BS in something, while continuing to apply to nursing in subsequent years. What PA schools are you looking at? Local ones?

I'm in the CSU system and I don't believe that is the everywhere in regards to the retake policy. An instructor of mine at the CC level mentioned that Ws now count as a retake. She said you now have a 3 time max attempt at classes, including anytime you drop with a W. I'm new to this particular CC, so from what she said it sounds like they still have a 3 time rule. The BSN program I want to apply to specifically says that they will only count your newest grade (as opposed to averaging the two) in calculating your GPA, even if your past colleges did it differently. So maybe check with the school you want to get accepted at and see what their policy is? That way you could try again at a different CC and use that as your newest grade? Good luck! And don't give up! You are SO close! I'm a wife and mom and doing my pre-reqs and I know how you feel! LVN vs. RN... my thoughts is that yes you get instant gratification in doing actual nurse coursework in the LVN program NOW, but in the long run it will take more time to finish your RN using all the LVN->RN->BSN ladders and such. But... I suppose you could save time because the waitlists in between aren't as long. Getting into an RN program as an LVN is much easier. Weigh your options, do what is best for you!

I know that there is a HUGE desire to get it done and get it done quick. But like someone else mentioned, you need to get 4.0s in nearly ALL of your classes to even get into the program. I'm in about the same boat. I am married with 4 kids and I just want to get through school and either into the nursing program or even done with the program and working in the field. But the competitive nature of getting in really isn't a joke. Straight Bs won't cut it. 3.8 was the average GPA of the cohort that just recently got accepted at the school I'm looking at. I don't know how typical that is, but I would guess pretty. Stats is tricky for a lot of people. Seems straight forward, but really messes with your head at the end there! lol I would think you could juggle two science courses, but adding the third math class seems like its asking for things to fall through the cracks. That is just me though. Good luck!

Any one have an opinion on this type of program? I am applying to three schools, two of which are traditional ADN/RN programs and then this program at CSU East Bay in CA. I really have my heart set on the BSN program. Here in CA you have to have your BSN to get hired right now. Even my RN friends are required to go back to school for theirs. So, the sleekness of this option appeals to me. But I have heard that "get your RN in one year" type programs turn out not-so-great nurses. I'm not sure if this program falls into that category or if they were referring to ABSN programs. Also, I would like to see if anyone can talk about the intensity of the program? More/less/same as a traditional RN program? I just found out the requirements have changed from last year and I will be apply to apply sooner than I thought. I'm getting nervous!