| Topic Name: |
nursing |
| Message Name: |
Slow down and think about this... |
| Date Posted: |
09/16/2006 |
| In Reply To: |
Hi. I am currently in my senior year at a 4 year college majoring in economics. I would like to switch career paths to nursing. I plan to complete my senior year and earn the BA, then apply to either an accelerated BSN or to a RN program.
Which of the two options do you think is best? Have you heard of Maric College or National University? Would a degree from one of those schools be enough to get me hired as a new nurse?
Any thoughts or advice are much appreciated. Thanks |
| Message: |
before you rush to complete the first degree in economics.
ANY nursing license is a good entry level degree. There is a national shortage of nurses and employers will take any license they can find. The concern isn't about what degree you have or what college you attended. The real issue is what program YOU can get INTO in an affordable and timely manner. Once you have your first license let your employer foot the bill for your continuing education.
I'm a second career nurse who finished an accelerated program last year, and I have a couple suggestions.
First, don't complete that economics degree yet. You may effectively lock yourself out of some types of student loans.
Second, start investigating the different types of nursing programs in your area. Remember, it's all about getting the first LICENSE to practice.
Nursing programs can be extremely competitive to get into. See what prerequisites are required for each program and start getting the basic science courses common to all, done.
Make sure you find out about any wait lists which may apply to each program. It's not uncommon in my area for there to be a 2-3 wait list( after completing the prereqs) for entry into a community college program. It may be cost effective but it takes forever to complete. The LPN program has a 15 month wait list for entry but costs 11K. While accelerated BSN programs can be pricey and extremely competitive to get into. So carefully investigate all your options to find the best scenario for you.
Also, check out the allnurses forum for more info.
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