Question about MSN options

[NeuroNP]

I have a B.A. in History and am completing an ADN. It is much cheaper for me to go this route than the 2nd degree BSN (tuition is about 1/3) and since I'm older (30) and need to work full-time, this is the best method.

I had originally planned to graduate and start working (hopefully in critical care or ER) and then pursue an RN-to-BSN (and have my employer foot the bill through the tuition benefits that most places offer) and then eventually pursue my MSN in Anesthesia. I am also interested in ACNP/CNS in Critical Care. Then a thought occured to me, since I already have a Bachelor's and will already have an RN, would it be possible to do some sort of combined BSN-MSN for ACNP/CNS and then if I choose pursue CRNA later? I figure, the ACNP/CNS could only enhance my abilities as a CRNA and offer me the opportunities to practice in another setting as well (I'm considering mission work overseas, so it makes sens to be as well rounded as possible), and I may find out that I want to just stick with ACNP/CNS.

Any ideas if that is possible/feasible? What would you have to do to get a BSN-MSN if you already had a BA and an RN? I've seen the RN-BSN and Direct Entry MSN, but these both seem geared towards the person who either 1) has an RN, but no Bachelor's degree or 2) has a Bachelor's degree but no RN. What about someone who has an RN AND a Bechelor's degree, but not a BSN?

[gauge14iv, MSN, APRN, NP]

Direct Entry programs are for Non-RN's with a BS or BA in anything else. They put you through the RN track and then straight into the masters track.

What's the drawback? Lack of clinical experience in between - however - 5 years post graduation there really is little difference. Time is the equalizer.

In your situation I would definately check out the DE programs. I don't really know how many there are or where they are. Cost should not be your primary concern - the thing you also have to weigh when looking at cost is the money you would earn vs the money you wouldn't for a given year. Say you went the AD route because its cheap, but the whole thing takes you an extra 4 years to finish your masters. That might be anywhere from 10 k to 30k a year (depending on your area) less money you would be making for those years would be in school. Then say a DE program takes you 3 years. But you are out 3 years earlier and making a full income. Just something to consider when you look at the overall picture.

Another factor...Once you gt done with one program it's hard to make yourself sign up to go back at it again. "Just a semester off in between" turns into 5 years...

[nurselittlemac]

The University of Virginia has a MSN- Clinical Nurse Leader program that accepts ANY bachelors degree. If you go full-time for 4 semesters, you graduate with a MSN and can sit for the NCLEX to have your RN.

Is this good? I do not know, but it is an option.

[Ginger's Mom, MSN, RN]

I am completing my MSN and have a BS in Health Care Adminstration ( diploma grad). Many schools have a MSN - Bridge program, I had to take 3 undergrad nursing courses then moved on to my grad work. Anesthsia or NP can be done in post master's certificate.