RN or NP--Help!

[lrahm16]

I was accepted at two schools in the LA area; CSUN's ABSN and CSULA's ABSN with the option to continue onto NP upon completion of the NCLEX (they suggest one year of work as an RN before beginning the NP track). Their NP program seems very affordable at 7.5k per year (2 year program). I am definitely interested in becoming an FNP and I'm worried that if I don't go for it now, the DNP will soon become the only option and MSN programs will transition.

However, CSUN's program (no NP track) is at least 10k-15k cheaper for the BSN and three months shorter. However, if I decided to do that program and do NP later down the line, I would need to reapply to schools and risk not getting in, having to take the GRE, and risk getting into a more expensive school than CSULA. But I don't know many FNP's and I have no one to talk to about this huge decision!

I have to make a decision in the next 3 days. Please help!!!!

[lrahm16]

Anyone?

[dcwang]

I just sent you a PM

[suprmedic]

Saw your PM but I am unable to respond for some reason. I do know of FNP's in the San Bernardino area that would be able to have you come by for a few hours and have you shadow them. suprmedic1 at yahoo is my email address. I am working inpatient as a FNP but my wife is a FNP and works outpatient.

The school I went to is now a DNP program- most are heading in that direction. The cost you quoted is very low and I think I would jump on it. My program was near 65k total....

[SierraBravo]

The odds that NP's will be required to get a DNP in the time that it takes you to complete both your BSN and MSN is virtually nonexistent. Will it happen down the road? Probably. Will it happen in the next few years? I highly doubt it.

FYI, not all NP programs require the GRE. Take advantage of the cheaper alternative and then get a job as a RN first. Get yourself squared away with your job and feeling comfortable as a nurse, then tackle the MSN.