RN vs. BSN vs. Other

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I am a 27 year old pre-nursing student, and I already have a BA from UPitt. I was hoping to get into one of several ABSN programs in the Philadelphia area, but that just didn't work out. Having just received the last rejection letter of the lot, I am weighing my options. Initially, I was considering applying to an EMT or CMA program and working until I can eventually get into an ABSN program. Now, I am unsure between this option, applying to a 4-yr BSN and getting a second bachelor's degree, or applying to an ADN program just to get into the nursing field (eventually doing an RN-BSN program). I would really appreciate the advice of someone with nursing experience. Should I get a certification and work while hopefully getting into an ABSN program down the line? Should I apply to an ADN program just to get into the field, or should I try to go the 4-yr BSN route? I know magnet hospitals aren't really hiring ADNs anymore, but it might be better than working as an EMT and hoping to get into an ABSN program somewhere down the line. I really want to become a nurse, but I don't know the best way to go about doing it. While my prerequisite grades are strong (3.97), my undergrad grades are not (2.5), so I really need to find a track that will be accessible while also leading me to my eventual goal of a career as a BSN.

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I am a 27 year old pre-nursing student, and I already have a BA from UPitt. I was hoping to get into one of several ABSN programs in the Philadelphia area, but that just didn't work out. Having just received the last rejection letter of the lot, I am weighing my options. Initially, I was considering applying to an EMT or CMA program and working until I can eventually get into an ABSN program. Now, I am unsure between this option, applying to a 4-yr BSN and getting a second bachelor's degree, or applying to an ADN program just to get into the nursing field (eventually doing an RN-BSN program). I would really appreciate the advice of someone with nursing experience. Should I get a certification and work while hopefully getting into an ABSN program down the line? Should I apply to an ADN program just to get into the field, or should I try to go the 4-yr BSN route? I know magnet hospitals aren't really hiring ADNs anymore, but it might be better than working as an EMT and hoping to get into an ABSN program somewhere down the line. I really want to become a nurse, but I don't know the best way to go about doing it. While my prerequisite grades are strong (3.97), my undergrad grades are not (2.5), so I really need to find a track that will be accessible while also leading me to my eventual goal of a career as a BSN.

I see so many BSN rejects asking if they should "just get an ADN", but ADN programs are fiercely competitive, too. I doesn't hurt to look into the admission criteria and ask about likely cut-offs, just don't take it for granted that they'll have you. What's keeping you out of the ABSN program? Have you tried asking a representative for advice on how to better your chances?

I don't think anyone who wants to be a nurse should waste time, effort, or money on MA school. I don't know much about EMTs.

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Thanks for the advice. The schools weren't very forthcoming when I asked what was keeping me out. They simply say that they took a long time to try and place me, but ultinately couldn't find a space for me. The reason I am gravitating toward EMT is that I could get a job as an EMT Tech in an ICU and get clinical experience. The main difference between the other applicants and me (as far as I can tell) is that I was a chef and they have years of hospital experience. I realize that ADN isn't a cake walk either, but I was recently invited to "instant decision day" at Harcum College, and I am wondering if I would be better off going the ADN route, then taking a BSN bridge. I am just trying to find a way to make this happen. I really want to help people in a meaningful way and I feel like nursing is truly the best way to do that while also having a secure income and good life.

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I agree with the pervious post.

One thing is that ADNs are still being hired by hospitals and literally everywhere that hire nurses. But, you would have to get your BSN within a certain amount of time. Your nursing prerequisites GPA is amazing, so I would apply for more ABSN programs, and see what happens.

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Specializes in Nursing Professional Development.

Have you looked closely at the 4-year BSN programs? With your prior BA and you nursing pre-req courses, you might be able to find a BSN program that would accept a lot of those credits, giving you a BSN in less than 4 years. In other words, you might enter as a sophomore. I would investigate that possibility thoroughly before ruling a BSN out.

Also, are you able to relocate? Or are you limited to the Philadelphia area. I ask that because, in Virginia ... Old Dominion University has a deal with many (all?) of the community colleges for "dual enrollment." People get their ADN at a community college while being simultaneously enrolled in the online BSN program at ODU. When they finish their ADN at the community college, they have a small handful of classes to finish for their BSN -- sometimes, graduating from both programs at the same time. It works great for people with previous college degrees as a lot of their previous coursework can be counted towards their BSN.

I know of a similar program in North Carolina. If you are able to relocate for a couple of years, you might find a program like that.

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