Where do I go from here?

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Specializes in NICU.

Hello all!

I am going to be graduating in May with my BSN degree. I'm really excited and also anxious about building my career. My goal is to become an NP but I am a little confused on how the process will work.

Do I need to work as an RN for a couple years before going back to school? Or are there graduate nursing schools that will allow me to enter right after graduating with my BSN?

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Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

Nursing school does not produce fully competent nurses. So, yes - absolutely - you need to become licensed and successfully complete a transition from student to practicing nurse before deciding about pursuing a graduate degree. What if you have difficulty passing NCLEX? What if you discover that there are some aspects of nursing that you cannot deal with.... or some aspects that you really love?

Admission to most NP programs require some nursing experience. CRNA & CNM programs require very specific types of experience. These programs will provide sufficient support for a new grad because they are designed for nurses who have already achieved competency.

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Specializes in NICU.

Thanks for the info! I am looking to become a neo natal NP...is there a specific type of experience that I would need for that after graduating?

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Specializes in NICU.

Virtually all NNP programs require 2 years of at least Level III NICU experience. Some of them will let you take theory courses while you gain the experience and wait to take the clinical courses until after you have the experience.

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