When to start MSN program after BSN?

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Let me preface by saying I am a foreign grad and am still in the process of sitting in for the NCLEX, but I'm curious...for those interested in advancing their BSNs to masters degrees, when is the ideal time? How much work experience should one obtain first? And is it even possible to begin an MSN program right after BSN? Thanks.

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Specializes in Cardiac, Home Health, Primary Care.

I graduated with my BSN in May 2010 and started my MSN in August 2010 (Family Nurse Practitioner track). I am only going part time so I can work full time as well (this means 1-2 classes/3-6 credit hours per semester). So far as I know the only part that MATTERS is that you have enough RN hours to qualify for CLINICALS (which should be after your theory courses, patho, health assessment, etc.). I am about to start my clinicals and have been working as an RN for over 3 years at this point. Slow and steady wins it for me ;) It has given me time to develop as a RN and become more prepared for my MSN training.

Good luck! And many of the MSN programs are internet based meaning you only go to campus a few times per semester and you do your clinicals in your hometown (provided you have doctors or APNs to precept you)

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Wow that sounds ideal. It's so encouraging. Thank you! :)

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Specializes in Psychiatric-Mental Health.

I'm doing my NP at University of South Alabama. Their graduate courses for nursing are online. I think they just require that you have 2 years of experience in your chosen specialty before you start clinical training.

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