Will skipping BSN for MSN affect me for future potential NP programs?

[amchand, RN]

I am an ADN educated RN working at a magnet hospital that requires we advance our degree within 5 years (New york state). I already have a bachelors degree in Biology from a long time ago so I was considering doing an RN-MSN in something like Nursing informatics or nursing education for two reasons: a) My earning potential at work is higher for MSN than BSN, and b) If I go through Capella my employer will cover 100% of the tuition, and with flex path it will take me approximately the same time as doing a BSN.

I would like to keep my options open for WHNP/CNM or potentially FNP school in the future, though I'm not ready to commit to finishing that within the 5 year deadline. Do you think skipping the BSN and going directly to a non-APRN MSN will hurt me if I do eventually apply? Do most APRN programs NEED to see a BSN? 

Thank you!!

[kbrn2002, ADN, RN]

You had me at tuition 100% paid by your employer. Any opportunity to advance your degree on somebody else's dime is too good to pass up. Unless of course it requires jumping through too many hoops or comes with such a big time commitment from you post degree that it makes the 100% paid tuition not worth what they expect in return.

I don't see how an RN-MSN can be detrimental to future opportunities especially since you are not 100% committed on what your future path will be. No matter what direction you decide to take your career long term the higher degree will either help tremendously or at least certainly not hurt. 

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

I'd go for an MSN if I was you - much higher earning potential as well as 100% tuition-paid - no brainer in my book. Good luck 

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

What traumaRUs said. MSN.