Simmons Direct Entry 2020

Nursing Students School Programs

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Hey guys! Just thought we would keep each other updated on our application process! I recieved an email this morning saying my application is under review (i applied nov 15) and was wondering what everyone else has heard! Best of luck to everyone!

Are you guys planning to not work, work part-time or full-time as RNs during the NP portion? I was reading last year's Simmons forum and one person mentioned that the NPs and hiring nurse leaders they talked to said they won't hire an FNP with no RN experience. I know typically (before direct-entry NP programs existed) NPs had at least a couple of years of RN experience before starting a program. What are your opinions about graduating simmons with only 1-2 years of RN experience? This is what's troubling me. Since Simmons has students do 760 NP clinical hours, does this really prepare us for the real world? But since simmons is specific to FNP, its 760 FNP clinical hours so maybe that helps?

I've been watching videos and listening to current FNPs talk about their opinions about this and they say having the previous RN experience helped them through NP school, but when practicing as a new FNP it's still just as hard. I really want to hear your thoughts on this. The other program I was accepted to is just an accelerated MSN program where I would come out as just an RN and would have to go get experience and then apply to NP programs. Simmons was my top choice because I will be completely done with all schooling and they're contracted with amazing hospitals in Boston. It still is my top choice but if accepted, I really want to make sure it's the right choice because it's more than double$ my other program (obviously because it's NP too but still that's one big loan to take out all at once!)

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6 hours ago, Meep123 said:

Are you guys planning to not work, work part-time or full-time as RNs during the NP portion? I was reading last year's Simmons forum and one person mentioned that the NPs and hiring nurse leaders they talked to said they won't hire an FNP with no RN experience. I know typically (before direct-entry NP programs existed) NPs had at least a couple of years of RN experience before starting a program. What are your opinions about graduating simmons with only 1-2 years of RN experience? This is what's troubling me. Since Simmons has students do 760 NP clinical hours, does this really prepare us for the real world? But since simmons is specific to FNP, its 760 FNP clinical hours so maybe that helps?

I've been watching videos and listening to current FNPs talk about their opinions about this and they say having the previous RN experience helped them through NP school, but when practicing as a new FNP it's still just as hard. I really want to hear your thoughts on this. The other program I was accepted to is just an accelerated MSN program where I would come out as just an RN and would have to go get experience and then apply to NP programs. Simmons was my top choice because I will be completely done with all schooling and they're contracted with amazing hospitals in Boston. It still is my top choice but if accepted, I really want to make sure it's the right choice because it's more than double$ my other program (obviously because it's NP too but still that's one big loan to take out all at once!)

I want to add my 2 cents to this topic. This has been extensively covered on many nursing forums. Basically it all comes down to what you are seeking/what do you want. For me, my goal is to become a FNP provider ASAP. I might consider working as a RN during the NP portion. Keep in mind if you work too much, you will end up doing the MSN part-time and that can drag the amount of time to complete the degree to 3.5 to 4 years. For me, doing the MSN full-time and getting my degree in 3 years makes more sense. I wouldn't really put too much weight on what you hear about what hiring leaders and people are saying. The trends are always changing. Sure before the direct entry programs came into existence, NPs had few or more years under their belt of RN experience. There have many so many studies done and researched about this topic and they all show that working as a RN vs NP are 2 different things. I've known NPs that had 10 years of RN experience struggle with being in a provider role. Most direct entry NPs are smart, and excel in their role capacity of being a provider. Everyone's experience and background is different. I'm not saying that having RN experience isn't important, I'm sure any direct hands on patient care experience can be critical to your success. But having RN experience is not the be-all and end-all, and like numerous studies have shown their is no correlation to someone's success in working as a NP with years of experience as a RN. As far as clinical hours go, 760 clincial hours is still better then what most other NP programs offer, which is around only 500 hours. It's no secret that NP programs come under alot of scrutiny for having such a low # for required clinical hours, but people need to start taking more initiative themselves. For example, if after those hours you don't feel competent enough to do the job, take the time to learn and explore other options like applying for NP residency programs, continuing education credits and courses, etc. My point is you as a adult learner need to take action and assess if you can safely do this job or not because its your license and name on the line. As far as cost goes, this program is pricey, but like anything in life, you pay for what you get. Simmons university nursing reputation and strong afflictions with great hosptials in the greater Boston area speaks for itself. Sure other programs might be cheaper, but can they flaunt high passing rates for the Nclex and FNP boards? Simmons certainly has that working in their favor. If your making a 6 figure salary, I'm not too concerned about paying off loans. Compared to most folks, we are in a better position to do so. Like I said my 2 cents, feel free to agree or disagree. Peace!

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Thank you so much for that response! I definitely understand your reasoning for wanting to get into the field ASAP, I feel the same way. Simmons does have an amazing reputation and location and that is what really draws me into this program. I didn't know NP residency programs existed, are they similar to RN residency programs in hospitals for new hires, where they meet maybe once or twice a week to discuss cases and learn more? I have always seen myself in the provider role as I have been doing bedside care as an LNA for a number of years. I also agree that with the implementation of more direct-entry programs, we will probably see a change in trends regarding RN experience. I requested to join a FB group for an earlier class of Simmons' direct-entry program to hopefully ask students about their experiences in the program. I haven't found too many reviews besides on GradeReports. Fingers crossed we both get in! If anyone else wants to share their opinion they are welcome to do so! ?

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I also think that having less experience might be okay for us as we will become FNPs and work in outpatient settings. I think RN experience would be more helpful for acute care NPs.

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40 minutes ago, Meep123 said:

I also think that having less experience might be okay for us as we will become FNPs and work in outpatient settings. I think RN experience would be more helpful for acute care NPs.

From my understanding, you can't even apply to Acute care NP program without having at least 1 year of critical care RN experience. But that's a different track. FNPs can still work in the hospital setting, usually in the fast track ER.

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Hmm I didn't know that! As an FNP I plan to work in an outpatient setting. What are your plans? Did you apply to other programs that are not FNP?

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2 minutes ago, Meep123 said:

Hmm I didn't know that! As an FNP I plan to work in an outpatient setting. What are your plans? Did you apply to other programs that are not FNP?

Honestly, I'm keeping my options open. I definitely wanted to do FNP because it is versatile. I don't mind working in the fact paced ER setting, but I can also see myself doing outpatient setting as well. I applied to Regis College and that program you can pick your speciality of FNP, Psych, Women's Health or Adult Geriatric NP track.

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17 minutes ago, futurenp4life said:

From my understanding, you can't even apply to Acute care NP program without having at least 1 year of critical care RN experience. But that's a different track. FNPs can still work in the hospital setting, usually in the fast track ER.

There are several direct entry (no previous nursing degree) programs that offer acute care tracks in MA

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11 minutes ago, massDNP said:

There are several direct entry (no previous nursing degree) programs that offer acute care tracks in MA

Interesting. I guess there are, but most of the programs I looked at require at least some 1 year experience as RN for the acute care track. Maybe these schools must offer great critical care ICU clincials if they are expecting new grads to jump in this high acuity area.

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Specializes in Direct Entry FNP Student.

Hi everyone! I am in the cohort above you all at Simmons. I have just completed my first semester. Due to unforeseen circumstances, I will be joining your cohort. I'm happy to answer any questions you may have about the program!

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Specializes in Direct Entry FNP Student.

Simmons actually requires you to work as an RN while you complete the FNP work. The graduate student handbook is available online and gives a clear understanding of those guidelines. I actually suggest flipping through the handbook so you can get a sense of what is expected of you as a Simmons student.

https://internal.simmons.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Graduate-Nursing-Student-Handbook.pdf

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Hello!

How has the program been so far? Did you immediately begin clinicals? How has your relationship been with professors? I know housing in Boston can be expensive, but was it difficult for you to find? How was your morning commute and class schedule? I saw that they require you to work at least 8 hours/week as an RN during the NP portion. I don't think that's much at all. I am a little worried about job searching after graduating so I may try and work more than 8/week. Have you talked to students in the cohort above you? It's stressful waiting for admission decisions to come out but fingers crossed we will be classmates!

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