UMass Accelerated BSN (16 months, 40k) versus MGH direct entry Women's Health (3 years, 70k)

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Hello there-

TLDR: Thoughts on whether I should choose a direct entry masters program where I received a big scholarship in Boston (70k to become WHNP) or a quality accelerated bachelors program near home (40K, Western MA) ??

Long version:

I am in great need of advice as I have been getting polar recommendations regarding the decision to split up my advanced nursing degree or go all in with a direct entry program. To give a little context, I graduated Smith College last Spring with a degree in Psychology & Spanish, focusing on reproductive justice and pre-nursing courses. I applied to a ton of schools and have gotten in to them all, but am having a hard time narrowing down my decision- only amplified by the fuzziness that COVID has contributed to my future clarity. I have narrowed down my options to the most cost-efficient programs- the UMass Amherst accelerated bachelors- which is only 16 months, close to home- my community, partner, etc., and would give me time to explore the various fields of nursing before pursuing my advanced degree. The downside is that this feels like a safe option- I went to undergrad close to home, and have been home for this year of COVID saving money.. additionally I feel the school has less opportunities than MGH, & I would be unable to spend under 70k if I split up the degrees. The second option is MGH IHP- the mass general hospital institute if health profession's direct entry masters in nursing program- which is 3 years (including summers), in Boston, and binding in terms of specialty (I have to double check this). I would leave as a Women's Health NP, have 70k in loans, have a high cost of living, be further from my family & partner, but in the long run leave with an advanced degree and a specialty in my area of interest. MGH gave me a 70k scholarship which makes the offer hard to turn down- I am just intimidated by the length/ stress of the program, in addition to the stressor of high living costs and being further away from my partner. I also have heard some negative thoughts regarding direct entry nurse practitioners entering the work field- so I would love any and all advice. This decision has been keeping me up at night, and I need to make a deposit for UMass March 1st (if I decide to go there), so the time is ticking! I would love your thoughts on which program to choose, or any thoughts around the subject of direct entry nursing programs versus accelerated bachelors. Thank you in advance!!☺️

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My advice would be to think about your long term career goal first. Do you want to be an NP or a RN? NPs have more autonomy prescribing meds, diagnosing patients, working in surgical settings etc as a mid level provider. Is that what you picture when you think of your career? If you do ABSN and work as a bedside RN would you be happy with that? Also take a look at current job postings at hospitals and see what is in demand and the degrees being hired. If you can only picture yourself as a mid-level I would save the time and money and do direct entry. If you don't know your path though it won't hurt you to go ABSN, get experience under you belt and form relationships with NPs so you can get to know their role. There will always be a demand for caregivers so nothing will stop you from going back to continue your education. 

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Thank you- that is very valid advice. I do see myself more in an NP position, but I am currently a CNA and do witness the role of an RN and see myself being happy in that position too. The nice thing about the masters program is that I would leave with my bachelors of science in nursing too, which would allow me to practice as an RN if I so choose.

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Then I think you've answered your own question! MGH is a great school and is affiliated with some of the best hospitals in the country. I am attending Northeasterns ABSN program in May but also looked into MGH and my coworker is also applying to their direct entry program this fall. In my opinion, if you get your training from Boston hospitals, that will open up doors for you elsewhere when you decide to leave and work at smaller hospital. Moving, establishing a support system and 70k all seem daunting I get it but if its what you decide its manageable and you can do it!

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Thank you, Amy<3 Good luck with your program I'm sure you'll rock it!!

 

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