Thinking about applying to a MEPN program ... any advice, general or otherwise?

[Thumbellina]

HI there :hatparty:

I live in the greater Seattle area and am thinking about applying to the Univ of WA's MEPN program (Master's Entry Nursing Program) which is designed for persons w/out previous nursing experience. I have a BS and an MS in Biology (marine bio), but feel unchallenged in my current job and want to move on to a more rewarding career path where I feel I can make a difference in someone's life. I have been 'medically inclined' for a number of years, and love to learn ...

The program at U of W is EXTREMELY COMPETITIVE :uhoh21: (only 20 applicants selected per year!!) so my chances of getting in are slim ... but one never knows, until they try, right? It's a HUGE financial investment ($36+k for the entire program which lasts about 3 years), but I think that the rewards would by far outweigh the sacrifices in the end ... won't they?

I'm struggling w/ which specialty area to choose and whether to take the NP or the CNS pathway ... any suggestions? I'm definately more research-oriented, and feel that I have the capacity to be a good and compassionate leader, so the CNS pathway jumps out at me. However, I'm a bit concerned that I would play a more 'administrative' & 'putting out departmental fires' role, than hands-on patient care and research ... is this silly of me? Are there as many jobs out there for CNS's as NP's? Difference in pay scale? I'm really afraid of leaving my current job as it is fairly stable and pays me well .. but I am bored and want to challenge my mind and body and make a difference in people's lives!

One final question ... does anyone know of any specialty areas where I might be more likely to find educational funding (i.e. scholarships, research grants, money for tuition for work in return)??

Thanks so much and I look forward to getting to know more of you!