Tech college, Community college, or University?

bshaw96 · Dec 22, 2006

I went the community college route. Frankly, I didn't have a choice. I was 19, didn't qualify for a scholarship, and my mom was a working single mom who could barely afford the community college tuition. 10 years later, I'm going back for my BSN. (for promotion purposes). The only thing that has always bugged my about having to go the ADN route was that I had to take 2 years of prereqs before beginning the 2 year nursing program. So I essentially ended up doing 4 years for a 2 year degree. Now I'm having to do 2 more years to get the BSN. I wasn't in your shoes, as I didn't have a choice. If I could have afforded the university route then, I'd have done it. Chances are you'll want to go back one day and get your BSN or MSN so if you have it in your ability to do the BSN now, go for it!!!! Congratulations on your career decision!

Jules A, MSN · Dec 22, 2006

I would agree that if you are young, know you want to be a nurse and can afford the time and money your BSN at a University would be the best bet. That said however if you need to work the ADN is a great option. I'm not sure about tech schools but all your community colleges pre-reqs should be transferrable to universities, check ahead of time to make sure of course. The other thing it seems like to me is that when you are in the ADN to BSN programs you do get to skip some of the Universities pre-reqs for non-degreed aplicants so for me at least I don't think the time frame is really that much longer. Good luck with whatever you decide. Jules

GAaunatural77 · Dec 22, 2006

Speaking of ADN or BSN routes.....how do u guys feel about the LPN v. ADN/BSN route?? I have all prereqs and I am trying to decide which route to take next. I am also working as a CNA in GA. Thanks!

Jules A, MSN · Dec 22, 2006

Speaking of ADN or BSN routes.....how do u guys feel about the LPN v. ADN/BSN route?? I have all prereqs and I am trying to decide which route to take next. I am also working as a CNA in GA. Thanks!

If you can financially afford it and can get into an ADN or BSN program I'd consider doing that since you are currently working in the field and should know what nursing is about. If you need to support yourself by working the the LPN is often a good option. Some ADN programs will even let you sit for your LPN boards after the first year. I decided on the LPN route because I had no idea if I'd even like nursing and figured I could get through a year of most anything, lol, fortunately it clicked and now I'm working toward my ADN. Good luck, Jules

Deglynx · Feb 27, 2008

I went the community college route. Frankly, I didn't have a choice. I was 19, didn't qualify for a scholarship, and my mom was a working single mom who could barely afford the community college tuition. 10 years later, I'm going back for my BSN. (for promotion purposes). The only thing that has always bugged my about having to go the ADN route was that I had to take 2 years of prereqs before beginning the 2 year nursing program. So I essentially ended up doing 4 years for a 2 year degree. Now I'm having to do 2 more years to get the BSN. I wasn't in your shoes, as I didn't have a choice. If I could have afforded the university route then, I'd have done it. Chances are you'll want to go back one day and get your BSN or MSN so if you have it in your ability to do the BSN now, go for it!!!! Congratulations on your career decision!

I completely agree with you. Community College will try to just get your money and waste more years for a student to just earn a 2-year degree.

If you're young, go for the BSN, because most ADN people go later for their BSN...might just do it now once you're young and free of any other responsibilities.

marilynmom, LPN, NP · Feb 28, 2008

Go for the BSN!