Ok to all the RN's out there I have a burning question -Do I get my RN through an associate's program or bachelor's? I already hold a BS in Microbiology and am now returning to school for my RN. I am confused as to whether it really matters since I already have a bachelor's of science in a biological science and I plan to go on for my MSN after getting my RN so I can teach.
My options are a 24 month Associates route or a 16 month Accelerated BSN program (by the way the accelerated BSN is 2.5 times the investment of the associates.)
What would you do? I need advice if anyone is willing to give it!
Having an ADN but not a BSN will dramatically limit your choices for traditional MSN programs. Most require a BSN from an accredited nursing program. (Obviously, that would not be a factor with "direct-entry" MSN programs.)
Teaching opportunities will be severely limited without at least an MSN (not to say you wouldn't be able to get a teaching job, but you wouldn't be qualified, plain and simple, end of story, for most nursing teaching positions). An MA/MS in another subject wouldn't count in most schools (legitimate schools) -- accreditation requirements for colleges and universities require that you must have your graduate degrees (or, at least, a minimum specified number of graduate hours) in the subject you're teaching (that's for all subjects, not specific to nursing).
And, yes, most teaching positions specifiy a minimum of anywhere from two to five years clinical experience. Many also require advanced practice certification in your specialty area.
Fortunately, one of the good things about nursing (IMHO) is that there are usually a few different paths to get to where you want to go! :) Best wishes for your journey --
Your best bet is to do some research on the school that you want to get your MSN from. Depending on the school, all you need is your ADN and a BS in another field and you will be eligible to get your MSN.
elkpark
14,633 Posts
Having an ADN but not a BSN will dramatically limit your choices for traditional MSN programs. Most require a BSN from an accredited nursing program. (Obviously, that would not be a factor with "direct-entry" MSN programs.)
Teaching opportunities will be severely limited without at least an MSN (not to say you wouldn't be able to get a teaching job, but you wouldn't be qualified, plain and simple, end of story, for most nursing teaching positions). An MA/MS in another subject wouldn't count in most schools (legitimate schools) -- accreditation requirements for colleges and universities require that you must have your graduate degrees (or, at least, a minimum specified number of graduate hours) in the subject you're teaching (that's for all subjects, not specific to nursing).
And, yes, most teaching positions specifiy a minimum of anywhere from two to five years clinical experience. Many also require advanced practice certification in your specialty area.
Fortunately, one of the good things about nursing (IMHO) is that there are usually a few different paths to get to where you want to go! :) Best wishes for your journey --