So much doubt...

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So, here I am once again, all set to re-start pre-reqs this fall, and I'm finding myself doubting my decision. You see, I'm 5 classes shy on completing my bachelors degree in general studies. I'd be giving that up to switch gears to nursing. Am I making a mistake? Shouldn't I not be having any doubts if this is truly what I want? Should I just do it or see my degree through to completion first? I know the bachelors degree will open other options for me should nursing not pan out. But.... I'm so confused.

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Specializes in Cath/EP lab, CCU, Cardiac stepdown.

If you're in turmoil over it and you're just 5 credits short, why don't you just finish the degree first. It will give you a peace of mind, a fall back plan, and it's not like it affects whether your classes get transferred over to nursing anyways. The only thing you're losing out is time, which isn't much if it's just 5 credits.

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5 classes. At eight weeks each I'm looking at about one more year. Part of the problem is , if you look at some of my other posts, is having to stop work to complete a nursing program. Right now it seems a bit far fetched. But I try to believe anything is possible... But if it's really not and just a silly dream I'd love to have a backup plan...

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My older brother has a Bachelor's in General Studies, and he doesn't have any extra leverage when applying to jobs because of it. At least in the area I live in, a General Studies degree doesn't really equate to anything.

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Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

^^^ Too True ^^^

Employers are not keen on any sort of 'liberal arts' these days. The demand is for degrees that are associated with marketable skills. Engineering is top of the heap, followed by Computer Science. Here's a nice summary from the US BLS (http://www.bls.gov/opub/ooq/2006/fall/art03.pdf ) and an article from (Forbes The 15 Most Valuable College Majors - Forbes)

Liberal arts/ general studies degrees are rapidly becoming an anachronism.

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Bummer. But I knew this going in. It wasn't so much of a choice, but a way to just finish by combining years of hopping from major to major. I would have a concentration however which is good. And I can use it more as a stepping stone to grad school. Not to mention the sense of accomplishment after working on this for 18 years. However, the only thing I really want to do is nursing... So here I am.

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Well, if you have decided on nursing, you will have to look at your local schools that offer ADNs/BSNs, decide on which program you want to complete, and see their prerequisites. I would advise that you speak to the nursing advisors at the school and see if any credits will transfer to the nursing programs. Since you have taken a lot of gen eds, you might only need A&P I and II and a few other classes.

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I need to retake chem - which I'm registered for this fall - because last time I was "pre-nursing" was 10 years ago and it expired. Then a & p 1 & 2. I took all the other courses already (sociology, lifespan, gen psych). I've been researching this for years just waiting to take that leap. Maybe I'm just getting cold feet. That's why I love this forum. :)

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It is definitely a big step, so it's completely normal to be nervous. I just got my Bachelor's in a different degree last spring, but I'm returning to school for an Associate's in Nursing. You're not alone in this change of direction. :)

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Specializes in ICU.

I think first you have to ask yourself is this what you really want? Because you have been at this for awhile and while it's admirable you are close to finishing a degree, let's face it, it's a useless degree. So if nursing is what you truly want, I would just start working on the prereqs. From my understanding, if you were to complete that degree, there will be no financial aid available for a second degree. If you are dependent on financial aid, that could be a problem. I see many people in here who think they have this great "calling" to be a nurse. Only to find out what nursing entails and quit. Then it's like flushing money down the toilet.

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Specializes in L&D, infusion, urology.

I agree that that specific bachelor's won't do much for you. It'll also cut you off from financial aid. If nursing is what you want to do, then pursue it!

Have you experienced any kind of health care, on the provider side? You might consider getting your CNA to really delve in and be sure that this is what you want. Take a break from classes and make this your focus for a short time.

It takes a leap of faith to make forward movement in life. Most of us have to take SOME risks in order to get through school. You can do this!

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Here's what I suggest. Finish your B.A and apply for nursing school as a second degree seeking student. In my state (CT) there are a ton of programs for people that already hold a degree. Some programs let you jump right into the nursing courses if your accepted. Who knows you might not have to take science courses because you won't be considered a transfer. I think it depends on the schools requirement. But that's what I would do if I were you.

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