RN to MSN or BSN to DNP?

[CeeSmall94]

Hey everybody!!

I am currently a student, almost finished with the ADN program. I am beginning to look at options to furthering my degree (because I know I'm going to need more than an associates degree). My ultimate goal is to become a NP. I'm not sure what area I want to specialize in yet, I'm sure that will come with time/experience. I was curious if you guys had any advice/input/stories to share with me about what programs you chose and why. I am contemplating if I should go for a RN to MSN program, and then do MSN to DNP. Or, if I should go for my BSN, and then do BSN to DNP. Anything you guys have would be helpful!!

Thanks! :)

[cleback]

DNPs are expensive degrees that have a lot of nonclinical classes. Better to be earning and working as an NP to better afford and apply those classes.

[DowntheRiver]

I would advise you to take baby steps. Finish your education and see what areas you like. It is acceptable to get the BSN ASAP because so many places are requiring it now. After you get your BSN work for a few years and then you can decide to go the MSN or DNP route.

[NICUmiiki, DNP, NP]

Finishing the BSN would be a better route in my opinion. BSN programs can be usually completed in a about 1-1.5 years as you gain experience (and decide what you want to specialized in) and are cheaper. If timed right at a more affordable school (like only taking 1-2 courses a semester), you can probably get your employer to cover a large portion of the tuition. RN to MSN programs don't usually award a BSN in the middle. If life happens or whatever, and you don't fully complete the MSN program (about 2.5-3 years), you are left with no degree and a bunch of credits.

I don't have a preference on whether you complete a MSN or DNP after the BSN. DNP just brings the research component up to doctoral level. But you really shouldn't jump into an NP program if you aren't sure about what you want to do yet. FNP isn't a generalist degree that lets you work anywhere. Even if your state isn't enforcing the consensus model yet, FNP programs DO NOT train you to be a safe provider outside of primary care.

[TheDudeWithTheBigDog, ADN, RN]

It depends on what your ultimate goals are and why you want to be an NP. If you want to do mid-level treatment, just get your MSN and work on your doctorate while working as an NP if you decide you want it. If you want to work on the research side, and work on developing nursing, that's really the only time I'd recommend any program that goes straight to a doctorate since that extra education tends to be very tailored to that.

Regardless, though, no matter if you do RN to BSN then to either MSN or DNP, or if you do RN to MSN, you're going to be taking the classes that would get you your BSN on the way, and it's going to take the same amount of time to get your M. If the school you're looking at doesn't award your BSN on the way to your MSN, just get the BSN first.