RN, BSN/MN, or MSN

[OhRN2]

Hello! I am a recent college graduate with a Bachelor of Arts. I have decided to go into the nursing field but am struggling with which program will be the best fit.

In Ohio, we have, generally speaking, three different options:

1. RN Program

2. BSN Program or MN program which is = to a higher level BSN program

3. Accelerated MSN program.

In all honestly, they will all take around the same amount of time. What I am wondering, is which will give me the best job prospects upon graduation? Ultimately, I plan to pursure my MSN, but I also don't want to educate myself too high out of a job with no real experience, other than clinical requirements for class. So, should I start with the RN program, go for the accelerated BSN program (which leads into an eventual MSN program), or go for the straight MSN program? Any insight would be so appreciated.

Thank you.

[Rodoon, BSN, MSN, RN]

Do you have long range goals?

I've never seen a higher education keep a nurse out of a job. Bad references yes, but not degrees. If you're desperate for money and go RN be advised that getting time off to pursue the degrees later might be harder due to shift work and filling in schedule holes.

With your current degree I'd go for BSN, but if teaching is your aim, I'd go for the MSN and grab experience after. You can also work in the summer and holidays prn to build experience.

I went BSN--ten years later MSN. I had access to every type of job except for Anesthesia.

To increase job prospects no matter what you choose get ANA certifications in your field. I think (ANA)certifications is one way to show you've got critical thinking skills if you're low on experience. Good Luck.

[michigangirl9876]

If your long term goal is to be a nurse practitioner than I would get the masters right away because they are switching the program to a doctorate degree.

[LVNBSN2]

Get the MSN.

[xInspiredx]

OhRN2, I want to send you a private message, but it says that your inbox is full.