RN to MSN or BSN to MSN? Which is faster?

RNTutor, BSN, RN · May 4, 2010

Oh, I just saw that you posted this additional info about your situation, too. If you want a CRNA in particular, then I think it would probably be difficult to find a program where you can get a BSN and CRNA, I suspect you would have to have your BSN before starting that program. Do a quick google search to see what the requirements of some CRNA programs are, but I think since that program does have some pretty intensive clinicals that they are going to want you to have your BSN already going into it.

Moogie · May 4, 2010

I think RNTutor and I are on the same wavelength here, LOL! We're following each other from thread to thread!

Definitely go for the BSN. Most CRNA programs are VERY competitive and while it may be possible in some circumstances to go from an ADN to a CRNA, you would be best off getting the BSN sooner rather than later.

Keep in mind, too, that most CRNA programs require at least one year of critical care experience and while I know of plenty of ADNs who have worked ICU, you would definitely have an edge in getting hired for that first job with your BSN. Some facilities will not hire new grads for ICU and others will.

Do work hard in whatever program you choose because, while grades don't matter in terms of getting a job, they do matter in terms of getting admitted to competitive programs like CRNA.

Texas247365 · May 5, 2010

Hi everyone!
I am currently struggling with a huge decision. I have a chance to apply to an RN program within the next month or I can apply to a four year school in the fall. My problem is deciding which degree is worth having if I am going to go on to get a Masters. My ultimate goal is to become a CRNA. I have heard that there isn't that much of a difference between an RN and a BSN but what does that mean in terms of working towards an MSN? I would also like to mention that I am 27 years old and therefore don't want to waste time on an undergraduate program that isn't effiecient. I have a lot of deadlines ahead of me and I am so confused as to which ones to pay attention to since I don't know which degree is the best choice for me. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! I'm freaking out!

Hello, I am in the same boat as you, well a little older and I just started my prereqs, am wasn't freaked out until I read your post...

The BSN route is definately faster, as everyone else said. But why are you looking at a RN program (I am guessing you mean a ADN)?

loopylicious · May 5, 2010

Hello, I am in the same boat as you, well a little older and I just started my prereqs, am wasn't freaked out until I read your post...
The BSN route is definately faster, as everyone else said. But why are you looking at a RN program (I am guessing you mean a ADN)?

I'm calling it an RN program because that what I would have if I go through the nursing program at the 2 year school I'm currently going to. I didn't hear about ADN until today in this forum lol!

Thanks for the replies. I was in desperate need of clarification. Y'all have no idea!

SCSTxRN · May 9, 2010

I have a non nursing B.S. degree and will finish the final exams leading to my ADN Tuesday 5/11. I have a different opinion than most here in that my ADN will let me work CCU (they hire new grads, and BSN has no advantage in this part of Texas) - after 6 months to 1 year in CCU + ACLS certification, I could float to / transfer to "the Unit"... same time requirements for BSN grads.

There are umpteen million RN-BSN online programs in 12 - 15 months, and my ADN took 21 months - so arguably the ADN then BSN route (for me) will take less time than any 'traditional' BSN program available to me... and I should have a year of ICU experience in hand about a year earlier than I would have with BSN then CCU then ICU.

Not to mention the fact that my ADN cost me 4K where as the BSN would have cost closer to 11K.

I'd call the hospitals around you and ask if they hire ADN's and talk to the nurse managers in the ICU to find out if they hire ADN vs BSN and if they hire new grads.

Also depends on how competitive the ADN vs. BSN programs are where you're at - I could have gotten into either one here, but I think the ADN program was academically easier - didn't have to take chemistry or Texas history to get in, and I would have had to redo my chem credit and take Texas history to do the BSN.

Good luck!!

DolceVita, ADN, BSN, RN · May 10, 2010

If you already have a BSc go for the RN and then do RN to MSN.

If no BSc already consider the RN and get a job with an employer that will assist with tuition payment. Of course, make sure there are employers in your area that hire new grad RNs -- hospitals are getting more and more fussy about this I notice.

Honestly, I think you should go have an informational interview with the 4 year college and find out more about them. Also, some MSN programs have an unwritten preference for their own college's BSN grads.

Obviously the 4 year institution is going to tell you to do the 4 yr. Another thing to check out is if your local 4 yr institution has a transfer program from the local 2 yr one. Ours does. So, anyone who successfully completes their ADN is guaranteed access to the BSN program.

shescoolie · May 10, 2010

I agree with DolceVita. If you already have a BS then I'd just go with the ADN program. I currently have a BS already and am doing an ADN program. After researching the MSN, CRNA programs in my area, I found that many of them have special programs and or waived admission criteria for those students who have a bachelors degree in another field other than nursing. I have no intentions of getting a BSN but plan to go straight into an RN-MSN program. Just make sure you check out the criteria for the schools you are interested in applying to.

RNTutor, BSN, RN · May 10, 2010

Also, some MSN programs have an unwritten preference for their own college's BSN grads.

That's interesting, I didn't know that about MSN programs. Before I was in nursing I did clinical psychology, and most of their graduate programs were the opposite...they had a preference NOT to accept their own college's bachelor graduates! Wanted to get a wider variety of research and academic backgrounds.

loopylicious · May 10, 2010

I don't already have any kind of degree yet. The 4yr school will have info sessions in June that I will be attending. However the Nursing dept. there is flooded with applicants and it is very difficult to get a one on one meeting that isn't an interview. I'm trying to get into UMB in Maryland and its looking like I really need to stand out because its so competitive.

I didn't think to contact the local hospitals to see if they hire new grads. That's an excellent idea. Sometimes when you're going crazy about making a decision you neglect to do the obvious. This is some great advice guys!