Want to switch my career to nursing...

[miszweszt]

Hi Everyone!

I'm brand new here, and I thought I would start off by asking all of you lovely people for some advice.

A few years ago, I completed my undergrad degree in Biological Sciences at a university here in California. However, I completed a BA degree, not a BS degree, because I had already started working in the corporate world, and did not see the necessity of earning a BS degree at the time. However, after 3+ years of sitting in front of computers and running mind-numbing reports, I have realized that I don't have any passion for what I do.

I have always loved science, and it's why I'd initially pursued a degree in Biology. When I was younger, I'd always wanted to become a nurse or a science teacher, but as I'd made my way through college, I found a job at a company that allowed me to attend classes, while paying me enough to graduate debt free. As time went on, I made my way up the ranks in the company, and saw college as something I just needed to finish, instead of spend any real time or effort on.

Therefore, I graduated with a 2.5 GPA, because I'd put absolutely no time or effort into my last couple of years in college, which I regret immensely now (but that's besides the point). So, my question is, what would I need to do to become a nurse at this point - with a BA degree in Biology and a low GPA? The university that I graduated from (CSU East Bay in Hayward, CA) has nursing programs (Pre-Licensure, LVN-BSN, RN-BSN, ADN-BSN), and I'm wondering if any of you have had any experiences similar to mine.

I really appreciate all of your help. Thank you!

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

You are in one of the most competitive, impacted, saturated markets for nursing program admissions. To be blunt, you probably would not be able to secure admission into a reputable nursing program in CA even if you were to raise your GPA to a 3.0 due to the fierce competition. You will be competing against masses of applicants with GPAs of 3.5 and above.

There are nursing programs out of state that would admit you immediately, but I assume you are not keen on relocating.

There are the private LVN programs at trade schools that pay no attention to previous GPA. Perhaps this might be the route you should consider?

[miszweszt]

Thank you for your insight, TheCommuter - I really appreciate it!

I had not considered the LVN route, but it is definitely something I will look into. I'm actually not opposed to relocating (no husband or children...yet!), but you're right, I definitely would prefer to stay put...

It's a bummer to hear how competitive nursing school is where I live, but it's a great thing at the same time, because it only means that everyone around me is super motivated. I'm ready to dedicate myself to do whatever it takes to become an RN, even if it means I need to take a longer route to get there.

Let's say, hypothetically, I become an LVN first with great academic standing, and then want to take a LVN-BSN pathway at a University? Would my low GPA record from my BA in Biology hinder that admission process as well, or would I be seriously considered based on my LVN academic performance?

Again, thank you for your help!