RN-BSN or RN-MSN

Nursing Students ADN/BSN

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Hi, I just graduated with my ADN RN and am getting ready to sit for my nclex. I am looking for some advice and information from folks that have experienced the same thing I am. I have a BA in psychology. I chose this route as it worked best for me since I worked full time throughout the nursing program, and the program was at night as well. I really enjoyed the program and feel that it was an excellent match for me.I am currently faced with the dilemma on whether or not to go back for my BSN or bridge to my MSN. I am not sure exactly what I want to focus in yet, so that is why I am hesitant on choosing my masters. I would wait a little while and work on figuring it out, but I am aware that most hospitals want BSN or higher now, or at least to be enrolled somewhere. So therefore I am unsure what to do, and I would greatly appreciate any feedback anyone has to offer. Thank you

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.

Some of the schools of nursing that offer RN-to-MSN programs also award a BSN degree once requirements have been fulfilled. This might be a feasible option if you want both degrees. Good luck with whatever you decide.

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You could specialize in Psych nursing, which would use your BA in Psychology. I thought most MSN programs require a BSN that is accredited by the NLN, others may know better. It is important that your BSN is an accredited program,most MSN require this. Do you want to practice in the psych field or the medical field of nursing?? I think you need to figure that out before you pursue what degree you want. Believe me, with the elderly, the baby boomers approaching elderly, and the younger generation there is now if not going to be in the near future a great need for psych nurses.

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.
You could specialize in Psych nursing, which would use your BA in Psychology.
There's also the psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) track, which requires a MSN degree, if the original poster wishes to become a midlevel healthcare provider in psych nursing. Then again, we do not know how interested in psych nursing the OP is, even though (s)he has a baccalaureate degree in psychology.
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I did consider that as well. But many tell me it is a waste of time to get another Bachelors, and that I should jump right to masters. But I am unsure as I don't know my area of focus yet. But that is a great suggestion, thank-you.

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I did consider psych nursing, but I am still unsure and would like to get some experience first. There are several schools that have RN-MSN, but I am also told the importance of obtaining a BSN as well. Thanks for your response.

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Specializes in orthopedic/trauma, Informatics, diabetes.

From what I understand, many of the advanced practice positions are starting to require a DNP in which case you need a BSN. You can go from BSN to DNP but not MSN only to DNP. I have a friend who is just finishing her DNP and she had to get the BSN even though she was working on an MSN already.

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