patty26

Since I started this whole thing, I wanted to clatify one point(although it most likely will not matter to any of you). Even though the graduates that these programs produce are ultimately NP's or CNS's, each person must become and RN at some point in the program. Also, these students are encouraged to work as RN's both while going to school and during the summers, and in some programs 32 hrs a week is required. Personally, one year working as an RN is nothing when compared with 20 years as one, but that is all that is required for entrance into most NP programs for RN's. Just because the decision to continue through the masters degree has been made at the beginning does not mean that these graduates have less education than some other NP students. But you probably think that these RN's haven't put enough time in either.

Chris-FNP, Thanks for clearing up many of the questions that I have concerning these types of programs. As an individual who is about to begin one of these programs, I have a couple of other questions that you might be able to help me with. First, was it difficult to find a position as an NP after graduating since you did not have extensive RN experience? Also, since I noticed that you are in Massachusetts, I was wondering if you went to a local program? If so, would you mind letting me know your opinion of it since I am up in the air about which school to choose.

Just in case it is has been taken the wrong way, the catty/bitter comment is not directed to any individual in particular. It is in reference to the general sentiment that I have found on these types of boards, representing the nursing community. Also, constructive criticism is what I am looking for, so thanks to those who have enlightened me to these issues. However, some of the above comments are not in that vain.

Most people outside of the nursing community would see no difference in the credentials of an NP who graduated from one of these programs vs. the "traditional route". I have been applauded by many of the MD's that I work with, who actually view advanced practice nurses as completely different PROFESSION than that of classic RN's. There is so much negativity circulating among the posters on this and other message boards relating to the nursing community. Obviously may Nurses, of all ranks and titles, are walking around with a huge chip on their shoulders. This is one of the reasons why anyone, including myself, would be crazy for getting involved in this career, especially when there are so many other professions that would be glad to have someone with the credentials that I already have. As a person who has grown up around large number of RN's, I know nursing is a difficult profession, so there is a reason for some "pissing and moaning". However I feel that the only way for nurses to get the respect they deserve, and to attract high quality individuals to nursing, is to start acting like this is something that you love doing. One thing that holds true is that I am not alone in thinking that the portrayal of nurses as unhappy and catty individuals needs to be changed, and that can only be done if each individual chooses to do so. Personally, my career decision will not be affected by any post on a message board, positive or negative. I know that I possess a certain level of intelligence and a number of attributes that will make me a great NP, if that is what I choose to do.

As far as I know, and I have looked at the schools quite closely, graduates of all these programs are able to "legitimately" put MSN after thier names. And as for extinct these programs are popping up all over the country, especially at some of the top nursing schools, including #1 UCSF. To my knowledge these have been put in place to compete with PA programs and to promote nursing to people who would otherwise never think of doing it the long way.

Just to clarify, a BSN is given after a year of school, which is followed by sitting for the RN licensure exam. Also, to some peoples dismay, graduates are qualified to sit for the NP certification exams in the specialty the student chooses following completion of the program. Since I have been taking prerequisites with people who are entering ADN programs, I know that most of these people would not survive an accelerated direct entry program. And even though I may not be an RN, I have been working in the healthcare field for 4 years. Believe me, I don't expect that I will know everything when I get out of school. But both during and after I graduate I can go and get experience as an RN, if that is needed.

I know that I am setting myself up for some serious criticism in this forum, but what do you think of NP programs for people who are not yet nurses? Since I have 2 sisters who are RN's I have gotten their opinions on the subjects, both positive and negative. I have been accepted to various two year and three year programs, but have not made any definite plans. Please let me know what your take on this is. Thanks, Patty