Specialty certifications - Better to obtain after getting a BSN or same as w/ADN?

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Specializes in Psychiatry.

I am a nurse with an ADN. I am planning on starting a BSN program this summer. I have a couple certifications I am interested in working towards. Psychiatric and Holistic Nurse certifications. I am interested in the education of both.

I guess I just want to make sure taking the BSN program will truly open doors for me. thanks in advance for any info

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Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

Certifications are a great way to demonstrate your clinical expertise to prospective employers. But be sure to avoid 'certifications' that are simply marketing ploys. Don't waste your time & money unless it is being offered by a nationally recognized entity / professional organization. Many nationally recognized certifications are not "entry level" - you have to have practiced in that specialty for a while in order to be eligible to apply and some of them are limited to BSN-only.

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Specializes in Psychiatry.

Yes, this organization requires that I have so many hours for one of the certifications and proof of continuing education in the field. However, I believe it used to be BSN/Advanced Practice Nurse only but now there are certifications available for all 3, ADN, BSN and Advanced Practice Nurses.

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Actually, the generalist certifications have always been available to RNs of any educational level (diploma, ADN, or BSN), and it's only more recently that some have started requiring a BSN. But the point of the specialty certifications at the generalist, non-advanced practice level is that you are an expert in that specialty -- so they require that you have worked a minimum number of hours in that specialty (I don't keep up with the generalist certifications any more, but, back when I was certified at that level, it was two years of full-time practice (or the equivalent).

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Specializes in Psychiatry.

I guess the better question is, is my BSN something worth getting/paying for? I will look through other posts, I'm sure this has been beaten to death lol

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Specializes in Critical Care, ED, Cath lab, CTPAC,Trauma.

This subject has been beaten, resurrected and beaten again. Here are some facts. The market is very tight right now. There will be the move (successful I believe) to make BSN minimal entry. A BSN is essential to advancement these days without extensive experience. Many ANCC certifications require working in the field for certain amount of hours...American Nurses Credentialing Center - ANCC - American Nurses Credentialing Center - ANCC. Your BSN will not be a waste of money...unless you are retiring tomorrow.

Good Luck!! :)

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Specializes in Psychiatry.

Okay, I am just nervous to spend the money and not really go anywhere I guess. I have to pay for this myself and I don't want it to be a waste. I am thinking I want more opportunity as I get older. I am already 46, no spring chicken lol but with a BSN by 49 or 50 that should open the door to more opportunities for me, I hope.

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Specializes in ED, Long-term care, MDS, doctor's office.

I am also ASN & I have been debating whether to do BSN or not...I have decided to pursue it, even though I am 47 years old...My passion is to work with critically ill patients in a hospital setting; however, with my previous LPN experience in LTC I have yet to get an offer...Unfortunately, my work experience is hopping around (always for the better opportunity such as pay, hours & to accommodate my school schedule)...I am really paying for it now:( But, I am determined & I have had a very good rapport with my previous employers, so if anyone takes the time to check my references, they will be good.... I feel I might have waited too long, but I am certainly not getting any younger & I am just going to go for it!!!Good luck to you!!!

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Specializes in Psychiatry.

Same here. Glad you posted, makes me feel better about my decision. I will be 47 this July and the program begins this July. I really want more opportunities as I get older and I think if I don't get the BSN, I will regret it. I was accepted to this program back in 2009 so hoping I don't have any problems getting back in (had to defer starting due to family illness/financial reasons). I may have to take out a loan for this but think it will be worth it in the long run. I will have to travel an hour once weekly but even with that I think it will be worth it.

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