Will I be paying too much tuition for my ABSN?

[nepenth3]

Hey all,

I got accepted to an ABSN program, starting in just a few months. The school has an exceptional reputation/NCLEX rate and is close to where I live, but I'm still a little dismayed that I'll be shelling out for what will be my third bachelor's.

The program lasts ~15 months and costs ~$50,000 for tuition and books. Fortunately, I've saved up enough to likely pay for the entire amount and cover living expenses without taking out too many loans...but I still don't just want to burn through my savings if I don't have to.

I've figured up until now that the speed of the program would offset the opportunity cost of doing a normal BSN program at the same school, which costs half as much but is about 9 months longer. Now I'm reconsidering whether I should be doing my BSN right now at all, and whether an ADN would make more sense. I'd have to do my BSN eventually, since it's my intention to pursue advanced practice (DNP or CRNA, depending on how my career unfolds.) Am I wasting too much money when there are cheaper alternatives out there? Would appreciate any advice!

[idkmybffjill]

If that's the only feasible ABSN program near you (or there is no lower cost programs around), then I'd probably go with an ADN or regular BSN program personally. 50k is a lot of money, and for me, an extra 8 months isn't worth 25k in extra expenses. Especially when you'd be able to work more hours during a regular BSN program than you would with a ABSN program. However, it may be worth it for you to get a BSN faster, so I think you'd have to weigh the costs against time.

But there might also be ABSN programs that are cheaper near you. The one I'm starting in May should be a bit over 11k for tuition.

[Christian96]

sounds about right to me. My program is 48,000 but everything is included. from the stethoscope, to our shoes.

[ItsThatJenGirl, CNA]

I don't think I'd spend that much if there was an option to spend less for a bit more time.

Good luck in your decision!

[Tacomaboy3]

I hope you know you can still pursue advance practice nursing WITHOUT a BSN. I understand that pursing an ADN might seem like your going backwards, but it likely is the most practical.

My undergraduate degree is in biology, I'm finishing my ADN program in June, and have been applying to a boatload of ICU residencies. After several years of working, saving, and paying off some debts, my plan is to apply to graduate school.

That's my plan, and it makes the most sense academically, financially and professionally to me.