RPN Bridge to RN or RN

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Hi I am 28 years old and I am in the process of switching job paths from security work into health. I am interested in doing nursing as I have a passion for giving care to people. My question is weather it would be cheaper to get a RPN diploma and then Bridge to RN, or get a degree right of the bat.

Any advice is appreciated Thanks

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Specializes in Acute Care, Rehab, Palliative.

It would be cheaper to go straight for your BSN, both time an money wise.Many people take the 2 year RPN first because they are anxious to start working as soon as possible.It depends on your personal situation.

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I am not sure what the policy is at your school; but i do know at mine and some others across the nation you have to take more classes if you are doing a bridge program. For example: If you get an associates in nursing (takes a total of 2 years going full time to earn) then do the RN to BSN bridge program (can be finished in 18 months); you also have to take some transition classes as well, that your BSN counterparts do not. I completely agree with loriangel14, go straight for your BSN.

I would highly recommend talking to the colleges you want to attend and look for what are called work for service contracts. This is a progam that some states have that if you agree to work in certian hospitals for a contracted period they will pay all or part of your student loans.

Hope this helps

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Hi everyone

I am applying to the UOIT RPN to BSCN bridging program. Anyone have any information on this program. Just need to know how the course is, teachers etc. Thanks.

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Sorry anyone has.

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Specializes in LTC.

I am dead serious when I tell you to just go ahead and get your BSN.

I just finished up with my LPN a year or so ago, and for the life of me, I can't figure out why I thought the bridge program was a good idea.

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Specializes in hospice, HH, LTC, ER,OR.

Yes go straight for your BSN. I am still waiting around and taking more classes to bridge over. But I also had other issues, ex. crappy gpa.

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Specializes in Hospital nursing.

The advantage of doing RPN first is that right now there are more RPN jobs then RN, at least in the GTA. However, who knows if this will be true in 2 years...it also depends on what area you want to work in...if you want to work in less-acute areas, and have no desire to work ICU or ER, etc (though RPNs can work in those areas too more and more) then maybe RPN is better for you. Another thing to consider is money...RPNs make a LOT less then RNs in most places.

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Specializes in Medical and general practice now LTC.

moved to the Canadian forum

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Get the degree right off the bat. Just my two cents.

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