Western Health Sciences - Direct Entry MSN - Fall 2013

Nursing Students Post Graduate

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I didn't see a thread, so I started one.

I am planning on applying this fall for the Direct Entry MSN program. Anyone else?

I know what you mean about West Coast University...the cost and the fact that only some classes transfer over really worries me. Don't feel crazy about attempting a career change! If it is something you really want, go for it! :)

If I went to San Marcos, I would attempt to go to Temecula because I love it out there. I would probably rent out a room or something along those lines and stay on days that I really have to. I was going to do the same with Western if I got in. I don't have kids yet but my mom is disabled and I am her only family so I do not want to move far away.

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My friend recently went to an information session too and had a similar experience :/

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I think it's so funny we're talking about other programs on here! :)

I'll be applying to community colleges in San Diego. There's a deadline in April for fall start and July for spring...other programs range from aug-Septemberish. Also, National University is in SD and they also have one in LA. SD has 4 start dates and LA only 2. In the fall I'll start with ELM. I haven't taken chem, I figured I just need to suck it up and take it because it opens a plethora of options. The good thing about LA (and living somewhat close to it) is there are so many programs! Especially at the ADN level.

Side note: I dreamt last night we had to go in for a second interview and it was a table of, like, 20 faculty members! Haha

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Blue - I was thinking about ADN programs too. But I am so worried I won't be able to find a job after two years of school. Are you worried about only having an ADN and finding work? I know the bridge programs are easy to find (a lot even being online) but that adds another year. Any thoughts?

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I've applied to ADN programs too. I figure after getting the RN we can go RN-MSN (for students with non-nursing BS). I'm a bit worried about finding a job with only an ADN, but I imagine it will be about the same difficulty as finding a job after finishing the RN portion of direct entry programs that don't award a BSN after the pre-licensure portion. I hope that made sense... On a positive note, while it will extend the the length of our education by a year or two, it will save us tens of thousands of dollars going the ADN route. My biggest concern is having to go through the MSN application process all over again!!! I just know I am after the FNP in the long run and don't really want to do more than a couple years at bedside.

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I've applied to ADN programs too. I figure after getting the RN we can go RN-MSN (for students with non-nursing BS). I'm a bit worried about finding a job with only an ADN, but I imagine it will be about the same difficulty as finding a job after finishing the RN portion of direct entry programs that don't award a BSN after the pre-licensure portion. I hope that made sense... On a positive note, while it will extend the the length of our education by a year or two, it will save us tens of thousands of dollars going the ADN route. My biggest concern is having to go through the MSN application process all over again!!! I just know I am after the FNP in the long run and don't really want to do more than a couple years at bedside.

I actually asked that in my interview! Were they finding that students were having difficulty finding employment after the pre-licensure program. The faculty said that for some students, it took a little time, but everyone got a job. If I remember correctly, they said it is mandatory to be a working nurse to move forward in the program as well! So I was really hoping that it wouldn't be as big of an issue.

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I agree with Ceci. I asked them about jobs during the interview because we aren't awarded anything. He seemed used to the question and gave a good explanation saying that some HR are particular about having to "check a box" with what degree has been awarded at that point in time, however most understand that an MSN produces better patient outcomes so in the long run its in their best interest to hire us...or something like that.

As far as getting hired through the ADN route. I think I would do an RN-BSN then pursue the MSN later. Although its not ideal, I figured RN-BSN is super quick and the RN-MSN programs probably want a little more experience.

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For those of you considering ADN have you thought about applying to Concordia for the ABSN program? It's only a year and I want to say they are still accepting applications for the fall. I say having your BSN in a year is a lot better deal than spending 2 years at an ADN program.

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I think the application closed on Feb 1, but I could be mistaken. I applied last year and wasn't accepted. The competition is stiff (as with other programs) and I didn't find them to be as student centered as Western. I am considering applying again though.

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@rainkissedleaves this happened to me too....what does this mean? when i told them that i got rejected, they said it was a "mistake"...i highly doubt that. i think i was on the cut-off and because many of those who were accepted, declined the offer, they decided to open up another interview day

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Thank you! :) I am waiting on my admission decision from Cal State LA and I was accepted to Columbia's program. Those two are my top two choices and I felt like I would most likely not end up going to Western. I didn't want to hold onto a spot knowing that I wasn't going to attend.

Congratulations to all of you accepted and good luck to everyone else!

congrats on your acceptance to columbia!! did you already interview for csula?

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@rainkissedleaves this happened to me too....what does this mean? when i told them that i got rejected, they said it was a "mistake"...i highly doubt that. i think i was on the cut-off and because many of those who were accepted, declined the offer, they decided to open up another interview day

Raychel - it is so odd not to mention confusing. It is out of character from what I have seen from Western as well. Did you call admissions?

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