The nurse who wasn't. Thoughts and comments.

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Alright, so I just graduated with my bachelors (not in nursing) and I'm thinking about becoming a nurse-getting an RN or a second-degree BSN, something along those lines. But here's the kicker, I don't actually want to BE a nurse. Let me explain, right now I'm applying for MPH programs (Masters in Public Health) looking for specific programs with an emphasis in Emergency Management and Disaster Relief. I would like to work for the CDC, Red Cross, FEMA, or basically any other first responder organization. The MPH will be a BIG help in this goal, but I was thinking that getting a nursing degree would only be a boon and not a detriment. But what's the best way to go about getting a nursing degree (keeping in mind I have no intentions of actually nursing...yes I am an odd duck, I know). I'm looking for the quickest way, I have the basic GE pre-reqs for BSN programs, but not really any of the science classes-so from right now: needing about 5-6 pre-reqs to finish (hey I have a nursing degree) what's the quickest way? ANY help would be so great...because the MPH is gonna take some time and I'd love to get out of school before I'm 30. Thanks!

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You don't "get" your RN and you don't get a nursing degree. You get an Associate's or Bachelor's in Science and you earn your RN license.

The quickest way would probably be an ADN program, two years versus 3-4.

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Specializes in ED.

An associates degree would be cheapest and probably 3 years. Only do it if your heart is really in it because nursing school will probably be one of the hardest things you will ever do. And for me, it would have been near impossible if I didn't have the desire to be a nurse. If it was means to another career it would be really hard.

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Specializes in ob/gyn med /surg.

tazzi is right.. you have to pass NCLEX to sign RN after your name... you have to have the ADN or BSN to sit for boards to earn your RN.

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Specializes in Maternal - Child Health.

The reason that a nursing background is helpful in the areas of public health that you mention is not the degree or title, it is the professional working experience. If you don't wish or intend to work as an RN to gain clinical experience that you will apply to the practice of Public Health, I don't see any reason to waste your time, energy and resources to get a nursing degree.

Unless you want to work as a nurse, I would recommend that your focus on your MPH.

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The reason that a nursing background is helpful in the areas of public health that you mention is not the degree or title, it is the professional working experience. If you don't wish or intend to work as an RN to gain clinical experience that you will apply to the practice of Public Health, I don't see any reason to waste your time, energy and resources to get a nursing degree.

Unless you want to work as a nurse, I would recommend that your focus on your MPH.

I didn't know how to say it without sounding harsh. Well said, Jolie.

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I have a dear friend who has a masters in public health and works for the state of NJ. I know she never considered going the nursing route. Her right out of college first job was the CDC.But the pay was so low she took the NJ job. Before you go this route I would really investigate.

Like the other posters said, your heart and soul have to be in it in order to become a nurse.

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Specializes in NICU, ER, OR.

Sorry, but you might want to re think your "plan". Really.

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Specializes in ED.
The reason that a nursing background is helpful in the areas of public health that you mention is not the degree or title, it is the professional working experience. If you don't wish or intend to work as an RN to gain clinical experience that you will apply to the practice of Public Health, I don't see any reason to waste your time, energy and resources to get a nursing degree.

Unless you want to work as a nurse, I would recommend that your focus on your MPH.

I agree with this also. Just having the RN does not mean a whole lot if you don't have any true experience working as a RN. It does mean that you got through nursing school which is no easy feat. However, much of what you learn in school will be difficult to retain and use later if you never work as a RN. So, really what is the point of doing all the work of nursing school??? And is a ton of work, sweat and tears. I have a previous bachelors degree in a difficult field and it was nothing compared to RN school. I truly think it is the hardest thing I've ever done.

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Specializes in SICU.
The reason that a nursing background is helpful in the areas of public health that you mention is not the degree or title, it is the professional working experience. If you don't wish or intend to work as an RN to gain clinical experience that you will apply to the practice of Public Health, I don't see any reason to waste your time, energy and resources to get a nursing degree.

Unless you want to work as a nurse, I would recommend that your focus on your MPH.

Exactly!

Please save the RN title for those of us to whom it means something other than a bump in pay.

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Not to mention all of the people who were unable to get into a nursing program because they were too full. It would be nice if those seats could be open for people who actually planned on using their nursing degree.

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People are giving you good advice not to purse a nursing degree if you aren't going to go into nursing. It won't help you unless you actually get nursing experience in the field which isn't something you wish to pursue. Save your time and money.

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