Thoughts on ADN to MSN then NP?

So you’ll get and pay for an MSN that you won’t use. Seems like a waste of money when there are a bunch of BSN programs under $10k, and then you can do a graduate program that you will use.

MSN and NP are both masters degrees/programs. Why get two masters? If you can go from ADN to NP that would be great otherwise, get the BSN which could take less than a year and then you have more opportunities in nursing while working on your NP.

Some of you guys seem to be confused about the difference between NP and MSN. Nurse Practitioner is a title that requires you to hold, at least, an MSN degree. NP isn't a degree. An ADN to MSN program is going to be a straight shot. Depending on the program, you may or may not get a BSN in the middle of the program, but in the end it doesn't matter unless you plan on dropping out in the middle. NPs aren't bedside nurses and no job is going to care if you have a BSN or not if your applying for an NP position. The main draw to doing it the traditional way, ADN to BSN to MSN, is flexibility and that it might be cheaper. You will have more say in where you go to school and if you need to move that will be a lot easier to do. It will probably take longer. At the end of the day, if you know you want to be an NP, then I'd choose the direct route if you have access to one.

Rereading the thread, I see the OP never stated whether the RN to MSN program was an NP program or not. I assumed it wasn’t based on a different thread. Having that bit of info would change my answer (or at least cause me to look at additional factors).

I had someone mention it to me. I do believe a few places offer ADN to MSN finishing with an ACNP. I know of a few that offer ADN to MSN FNP. Just curious. Will probably go do BSN for flexibility and the chance to take a break or deal with any life situations that might arise.