RN with non-nursing Bachelor's seeking online MSN program

Editorial Team / Admin · Jul 11, 2016

Many programs offer RN-to-MSN programs that do not award a BSN along the way. That path typically requires several more courses than the BSN-to-MSN path, but may be offered by those same programs. Dig into website information or contact admissions advisors at the schools you are interested in to see what is offered.

mmc51264, BSN, MSN, RN · Jul 12, 2016

what do you want to do with your MSN?

Just curious

moreoreo · Jul 12, 2016

Honestly it isn't my preference to jump into MSN as a newer nurse, but my new job requires acceptance into a BSN program within 6 mos. of hire and completion within 3 years, which I know is common, and if I am going to continue education I would rather reach for a master's rather than have a second bachelor's degree. Down the line I am interested in becoming a palliative care NP or maybe exploring public health options. It would also help to get started early as I know it would be harder after I have kids one day!

moreoreo · Jul 12, 2016

I have seen a couple ADN -> MSN programs but what is frustrating to me is there are programs for "individuals who have a non-nursing Bachelor's degree with no RN experience who would like to pursue a Master's in Nursing" but not "nurses with a non-nursing Bachelor's degree who would like to pursue a MSN." Maybe it's being picky but it seems odd for non-nurses to have the convenience over nurses. Though I guess there's just not as big of a market for what I'm looking for!

moreoreo · Jul 12, 2016

double post

mmc51264, BSN, MSN, RN · Jul 13, 2016

I had a previous BS (biology) and a masters (in teaching). The biology helped me get into an ADN program quickly (I had missed the deadline for an ABSN where I am). I needed the BSN so I did that next, having the previous BS allowed me to do a online BSN in one calendar year and now I am in an MSN online for Informatics. Because I had a previous masters, again, I needed no pre-reqs, no GRE, no electives. There are advantages to having previous degrees, and it seems redundant at times, but I wouldn't change anything. it really is a bizarre situation with ADN, BSN, MSN, DNP, too many combinations. There has been talk that DNP is going to become the entry degree for autonomous NP positions and that you must have a BSN to get the DNP. Some of the local schools of nursing are not offering MSN for NP. Like I said, it is a mess.

EricJRN, MSN, RN · Jul 21, 2016

Excelsior College will admit RNs with non-nursing bachelor's degrees directly into their MS Nursing programs. Since this is different from an RN-to-MSN program designed for nurses with no bachelor's degree at all, they do not automatically confer a BSN along the way. The Excelsior MSN program offers specializations in education, informatics and leadership/management.