Social Worker to Psych NP - Help!

[MSSAnurse]

Hi all,

I am currently a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) with my Master of Science in Social Administration (equivalent to a Master of Social Work). Currently working as an outpatient oncology social worker. I have realized I am very interested in the possibility of becoming a Psychiatric NP. I've been looking into programs, and have been researching Direct Entry MSN programs as a non-nursing major (without my BSN/RN). Ohio State's program looks pretty promising.

However, my main question is: should I do a Direct Entry MSN program or go through an accelerated BSN program THEN apply to an MSN program?

I have to take pre-req's anyway, and for Ohio State that means Anatomy, Physiology, Human Nutrition, Pharmacology, and Microbiology. I'm assuming that most accelerated BSN programs also have similar pre-req's.

Also, if there happened to be any other social workers who went through a career change to nursing (particularly MSN/NP), I would love to chat with you!

Thanks!

[Devon Rex, ADN, BSN]

Hello,

Have you tried applying for a Psychiatric Social Worker position yet? If not, I recommend you do and get some experience before you endeavor into investing on an NP degree. I worked in a Psychiatric unit for a short while... I found it interesting, but it did not turn out to be what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. Make steady and firm steps towards a great goal. You already have a master's degree... ensure the next one is well worth it!

P.S. Yes, you will need those pre-reqs you mentioned in order to become an NP... so be sure you like it. :)

[araew2129, ADN]

Also a social worker here! I'm currently doing my prereqs to apply to a couple different direct entry master's programs. I have a BSW, no MSW and so these programs make the most sense to me. I don't see any advantage for you to get an accelerated BSN first, I would go direct entry route. Do you have a program in your area which allows you to become a NP with only a MSN degree? Here the MSN degrees allow you to apply to DNP programs to become a NP. I also agree with the above poster about shadowing before deciding to jump in with both feet, considering you are already a licensed social worker with a MSW. If I had those qualifications I likely wouldn't have switched, only because it would be more of a lateral move rather than a step up. Good luck on whatever you decide!