Starting to think about a career in nursing?

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Hello!

I just graduated with two degrees - a BS in Health Studies and a BA in Sociology. Unfortunately, I am coming out with a GPA of 2.5, but a TON of direct healthcare experience. I was planning on retaking many of my science classes in order to go into Physician Assistant school, but after working in the hospital, I realized that what I really want to do is go into nursing.

What should my next step be? From what I can see, many people suggest that it is better to go into an Accelerated BSN if you already have a Bachelors degree, but because of my low GPA, should I start out with an Associates in Nursing? Would I even get accepted to that? Please help!

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You should research the requirements of schools in your area. My school only looked at test scores and not GPA. If you test well this may benefit you. Likely you will have pre-reqs to take such as anatomy and physiology and micro.

Typically Accelerated BSN programs are very expensive, not to mention competitive so community college may be a cheaper option.

On the other hand many ADN programs have long waiting lists.

What area are you in? What schools are around you?

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Thank you very much! I live in New York, so I am willing to go to any school on Long Island or in New York City.

Which test are you referring to? Do you mean the NCLEX-RN exam?

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Specializes in NICU.

I would look into the pre-reqs for a Accelerated BSN and take those to see how much it boosts your GPA. If there are pre-req classes for nursing that you completed from your previous BS that you got low Bs or Cs in that you can re-take them. Study and take the TEAS V test. My ABSN is actually cheaper than a traditional program because they take 47 credits from my first degree.

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Specializes in Critical Care.

I'm currently in an accelerated program and I have a BS in another field. If you're planning on working in a hospital, you might have to go back to school anyway to get your BSN if you do ADN. It's probably better to do it all at once. Maybe retake some of the classes that would hold you back from getting into a program?

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Specializes in Critical Care.

BTW I got into my competitive program with a 3.3 GPA, BS in biology, with no healthcare experience besides some volunteer hours at the hospital. You might not be that bad off, esp with your experience, depending on the programs in your area! You could always call and see if theyll share the average GPA of accepted students. Good luck!

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