9 answers
Layla
Student
East Palo Alto, California
3
Questions
Asked
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Hi, my name is Layla and I am an incoming sophomore. I had a question about becoming a nurse. I really yearn to get into a really nice university like UC Irvine. I want a BSN, but am really confused if I should get an associate to become an RN, Ive heard that you can only get an associate through community college. But I really want to go to a 4 year university. I heard you need to get accepted into a BSN program, is that through any university you pick that has a nursing program? and I heard you have to take classes before that like psychology so I'm confused on the process, do I go to community college, then go to uni for four years and then go into a BSN program? I really want a head start on my future career. thank you, and if possible in depth and easy-to-understand feedback would be greatly appreciated.
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9 answers
Bailey BSN, RN, CCRN-CMC
Registered Nurse
76
Answers
Updated
Bailey’s Answer
I was able to get my nursing degree at a community it’s college and then get my BSN at a university. I am a first generation student so I could not afford a university until I started working. The best step is to talk to a college counselor. Typically a community college and university will require prerequisites before being accepted into the program. Each school requires different prerequisites, so you will need to talk to a counselor. No matter what, I highly recommend getting your BSN at some point in your career.
Dr. Wendy Cole Ph.D, MSN, RN
Professor at a university, COO,Informatics Consultant
6
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Dr. Wendy’s Answer
Good day, Layla!
I agree with the previous responses, but I would also like to add that you should also consider that nursing degrees oftentimes requires clinical lab times. This means that outside of the usual course times, you will need to be in a healthcare facility practicing the skills learned during classti.e. Most facilities now offer Simulation labs where you practice. Still, this lab time may be outside of the regular class time. Be sure to inquire at both schools.
If you decide to go the community to college route, You will have your clinical rotation completed. Once you complete your program and successfully pass the NCLEX exam to get your RN license you can apply for a job. You can earn money within 2 years or as long as it takes you to complete your associates degree. You may be able to complete your BSN online after working for about a year.
If you choose to go the university route, you will experience the full college life! It will take you about four or five years. This may be best for you, But you should collect more information to make the best decision for you and your situation.
When you finish..you will have a plethora of opportunities and areas of your choice!
Best,
Dr. Cole
I agree with the previous responses, but I would also like to add that you should also consider that nursing degrees oftentimes requires clinical lab times. This means that outside of the usual course times, you will need to be in a healthcare facility practicing the skills learned during classti.e. Most facilities now offer Simulation labs where you practice. Still, this lab time may be outside of the regular class time. Be sure to inquire at both schools.
If you decide to go the community to college route, You will have your clinical rotation completed. Once you complete your program and successfully pass the NCLEX exam to get your RN license you can apply for a job. You can earn money within 2 years or as long as it takes you to complete your associates degree. You may be able to complete your BSN online after working for about a year.
If you choose to go the university route, you will experience the full college life! It will take you about four or five years. This may be best for you, But you should collect more information to make the best decision for you and your situation.
When you finish..you will have a plethora of opportunities and areas of your choice!
Best,
Dr. Cole
Maureen Komperda
Nurse Practitioner
44
Answers
Elmhurst, Illinois
Updated
Maureen’s Answer
Hey Layla,
I'm going to start at the beginning.
1. Talk to a career counselor at school. He/She/They will know what schools in CA have nursing programs. I checked out UC Urvine and it has many nursing programs, BSN, MSN, PhD and Doctor of Nursing.
2. My thoughts are...make sure nursing is for you! Shadow a nurse, volunteer at a hospital or clinic, work to get your Certified Nursing Assistant through coursework at a community college. Some of my friends went to school thinking they like nursing, took 2 years of prerequisite courses like psychology, sociology, statistics...only to find they didn't like nursing year 3.
3. Is money going to be an issue? My three sons spent 2 years at College of DuPage in Illinois working on their pre-reqs for their degree programs... much cheaper and the courses generally transfer.
4. Community college is two years of inexpensive coursework --> enroll in 4 year BSN program in which 2 or more of your years are completed! The cons of this are you will be the newbie and won't have fostered a relationship with fellow nursing students from day one getting "The College Experience" pledging sororities, playing sports or joining groups/clubs.
My big take home is get exposed to nursing first and see if you really find it rewarding. UC Urvine may have a program to gain exposure say "spend a day with a nursing student". I'd talk to someone in their college of nursing to see what they can do for you. Good luck Layla!
I'm going to start at the beginning.
1. Talk to a career counselor at school. He/She/They will know what schools in CA have nursing programs. I checked out UC Urvine and it has many nursing programs, BSN, MSN, PhD and Doctor of Nursing.
2. My thoughts are...make sure nursing is for you! Shadow a nurse, volunteer at a hospital or clinic, work to get your Certified Nursing Assistant through coursework at a community college. Some of my friends went to school thinking they like nursing, took 2 years of prerequisite courses like psychology, sociology, statistics...only to find they didn't like nursing year 3.
3. Is money going to be an issue? My three sons spent 2 years at College of DuPage in Illinois working on their pre-reqs for their degree programs... much cheaper and the courses generally transfer.
4. Community college is two years of inexpensive coursework --> enroll in 4 year BSN program in which 2 or more of your years are completed! The cons of this are you will be the newbie and won't have fostered a relationship with fellow nursing students from day one getting "The College Experience" pledging sororities, playing sports or joining groups/clubs.
My big take home is get exposed to nursing first and see if you really find it rewarding. UC Urvine may have a program to gain exposure say "spend a day with a nursing student". I'd talk to someone in their college of nursing to see what they can do for you. Good luck Layla!
William Nwaogu
Construction, CAD and BIM
299
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
William’s Answer
Nursing Associate of Science is a two year program for becoming a nursing assistant or nursing technician. You can tech the PE to become a registered nurse with some years of experience.
Nursing Bachelor of Science, plus a PE takes a lesser period to become a registered nurse.
You can take a two year Associate of Science, then a top up to get Bachelor of Science through direct entry admission.
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing in a shorter time assumes a supervisory role or consultancy.
Nursing Bachelor of Science, plus a PE takes a lesser period to become a registered nurse.
You can take a two year Associate of Science, then a top up to get Bachelor of Science through direct entry admission.
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing in a shorter time assumes a supervisory role or consultancy.
Sylvia Mum
Registered Nurse
37
Answers
Ashburn, Virginia
Updated
Sylvia’s Answer
Hello Layla,
I noticed that a couple of advanced practice nurses have already responded to your inquiry. I'd like to add to the discussion by asking about your financial circumstances.
Option I: If your family has the financial means to comfortably cover the expenses of a 4-year college, I recommend choosing UC. This way, you can fully immerse yourself in the college experience. This could cost upwards of 90 000, although UC seems reasonable.
Option II: If you're planning to start earning money right after high school, you might want to consider becoming an LPN during high school. This will allow you to work part-time while you pursue your RN.
Option III: If you don't urgently need the income from an LPN job but also don't want to bear the cost of a 4-year BSN program, you might want to consider an associate's degree in nursing. This could save you up to $89,000 per year. After obtaining your RN, you can pursue a BSN for as low as $15,000, either online or in-person.
I noticed that a couple of advanced practice nurses have already responded to your inquiry. I'd like to add to the discussion by asking about your financial circumstances.
Option I: If your family has the financial means to comfortably cover the expenses of a 4-year college, I recommend choosing UC. This way, you can fully immerse yourself in the college experience. This could cost upwards of 90 000, although UC seems reasonable.
Option II: If you're planning to start earning money right after high school, you might want to consider becoming an LPN during high school. This will allow you to work part-time while you pursue your RN.
Option III: If you don't urgently need the income from an LPN job but also don't want to bear the cost of a 4-year BSN program, you might want to consider an associate's degree in nursing. This could save you up to $89,000 per year. After obtaining your RN, you can pursue a BSN for as low as $15,000, either online or in-person.
Caroline V
Medical
91
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Caroline’s Answer
To answer your question so for California BSN you will need to do the 2 years of basic education classes such as English, oral communications , critical thinking, Statistics, Organic chemistry, Quantitative Reasoning, Anatomy and Physiology and Microbiology,. These classes you can take at a college this will save you money doing it this way. You could also Clep which is College level Examination Program which you take the exam without having to take that class this only applies to basic initial classes. I hope this helps
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1913
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello again, Layla - future Nurse !
Well if my other advice wasn't too exhausting to begin with, I do care about your concerns so would like to address what you've asked here.
My famous "first thing you must do" is to not just pick a college, but see if a college does dual enrollment. UC Irvine has much different General Ed requirements than De Anza College (or any community college) which I discussed in my previous advice for you. If you go to De Anza, you would obtain your Associates Degree in Nursing and taking a test would grant you RN status. You can than go to any University for your Bachelors in Nursing.
My suggestion and thoughts sway to the advice I gave you previously. De Anza has very doable general ed requirements and a Nursing Program. Something tells me that if you do your General Ed at De Anza as opposed to UC Irvine your studies will be smoother and less demanding. UC Irvine just may have more General Ed requirements to load up on (see the information in my previous advice). The University of California at Irvine does not offer Dual Enrollment for High School Students. But once you have your Associates Degree and are licensed and registered as a Nurse, you can enroll for a Bachelors Degree somewhere if you wanted to. You can even go for your Bachelors part time while you work as a nurse.
I stand by focusing on De Anza College because it really has everything you seem to want. A robust Dual Enrollment Program for High School Students, doable General Ed Requirements and most importantly, a Nursing Program.
Try not to think about which college is better or good, all Nursing Programs in colleges are good and have undergone strict review for high standards and compliance. It will also be much more economical for you to attend a college like De Anza as the tuition for the UC system can be quite costly. Naturally, you could get financial assistance but you must weigh all of your options.
I appreciate your wanting to go to UC Irvine, but let's look at that scenario. You would not be able to do dual enrollment for UC Irvine because they do not offer that. You would have to take the dual enrollment at a college and then hope that UC Irvine accepts those units from whatever college you took them at, but you can check it out before you take the courses. It's a lot of work and research to know each and every course's transferability. You would have to begin fresh at UC Irvine. They have a low acceptance rate of 21%. The average GPA of accepted student is 4.0. UC Irvine does not accept transfer courses that have a Pass/Not Pass grade and requires letter grades.
As for the tests that UC Irvine requires for enrollment, they require a Calculus Placement Exam so they know your aptitude for Math classes, an English Proficiency Exam if you've had less than three years of English classes in high school but they do not require SAT or ACT scores. Another exam is the Personal Insight test for which you choose four out of eight questions to write about.
If you're not familiar with Irvine, CA it is 400 miles from where you live and you will have to make a lot of plans for this move. The rents in Irvine are, IMO, astronomical, similar to New York City. If you stay in the campus dorms, that would be an extra fee in addition to your tuition. And take it from me, you'll need a car if you live anywhere in Orange County, California.
My best advice: try not to overthink it and don't put the cart before the horse. Take one step at a time. Right now, a beneficial step would be to situate your Dual Enrollment Program considering the advice I gave you previously. Try not to rush things or think too far ahead. Obtain information but use it for future reference. You will be able to make decisions as you go along and you do not need to secure everything right now. Do the dual enrollment and focus on your high school classes and dual college classes. Things can get more confusing by trying to make decisions all at once. You're doing the right thing for now. Pace yourself and know that as you go along, things will become more clear and you'll know just what to do.
Again, I hope this is helpful and I wish you all the best !
Well if my other advice wasn't too exhausting to begin with, I do care about your concerns so would like to address what you've asked here.
My famous "first thing you must do" is to not just pick a college, but see if a college does dual enrollment. UC Irvine has much different General Ed requirements than De Anza College (or any community college) which I discussed in my previous advice for you. If you go to De Anza, you would obtain your Associates Degree in Nursing and taking a test would grant you RN status. You can than go to any University for your Bachelors in Nursing.
My suggestion and thoughts sway to the advice I gave you previously. De Anza has very doable general ed requirements and a Nursing Program. Something tells me that if you do your General Ed at De Anza as opposed to UC Irvine your studies will be smoother and less demanding. UC Irvine just may have more General Ed requirements to load up on (see the information in my previous advice). The University of California at Irvine does not offer Dual Enrollment for High School Students. But once you have your Associates Degree and are licensed and registered as a Nurse, you can enroll for a Bachelors Degree somewhere if you wanted to. You can even go for your Bachelors part time while you work as a nurse.
I stand by focusing on De Anza College because it really has everything you seem to want. A robust Dual Enrollment Program for High School Students, doable General Ed Requirements and most importantly, a Nursing Program.
Try not to think about which college is better or good, all Nursing Programs in colleges are good and have undergone strict review for high standards and compliance. It will also be much more economical for you to attend a college like De Anza as the tuition for the UC system can be quite costly. Naturally, you could get financial assistance but you must weigh all of your options.
I appreciate your wanting to go to UC Irvine, but let's look at that scenario. You would not be able to do dual enrollment for UC Irvine because they do not offer that. You would have to take the dual enrollment at a college and then hope that UC Irvine accepts those units from whatever college you took them at, but you can check it out before you take the courses. It's a lot of work and research to know each and every course's transferability. You would have to begin fresh at UC Irvine. They have a low acceptance rate of 21%. The average GPA of accepted student is 4.0. UC Irvine does not accept transfer courses that have a Pass/Not Pass grade and requires letter grades.
As for the tests that UC Irvine requires for enrollment, they require a Calculus Placement Exam so they know your aptitude for Math classes, an English Proficiency Exam if you've had less than three years of English classes in high school but they do not require SAT or ACT scores. Another exam is the Personal Insight test for which you choose four out of eight questions to write about.
If you're not familiar with Irvine, CA it is 400 miles from where you live and you will have to make a lot of plans for this move. The rents in Irvine are, IMO, astronomical, similar to New York City. If you stay in the campus dorms, that would be an extra fee in addition to your tuition. And take it from me, you'll need a car if you live anywhere in Orange County, California.
My best advice: try not to overthink it and don't put the cart before the horse. Take one step at a time. Right now, a beneficial step would be to situate your Dual Enrollment Program considering the advice I gave you previously. Try not to rush things or think too far ahead. Obtain information but use it for future reference. You will be able to make decisions as you go along and you do not need to secure everything right now. Do the dual enrollment and focus on your high school classes and dual college classes. Things can get more confusing by trying to make decisions all at once. You're doing the right thing for now. Pace yourself and know that as you go along, things will become more clear and you'll know just what to do.
Again, I hope this is helpful and I wish you all the best !
Martin Schoen
APRN
288
Answers
Ocala, Florida
Updated
Martin’s Answer
In high school, try to take as many science classes as you can, along with math, business, and computer courses. These will not only increase your chances of getting into a good program, but also help you be more prepared. A psychology course could also be beneficial. Any standard bachelor's program will provide all the necessary courses for you to graduate and take the state boards.
However, it's worth noting that 2-year and online programs often require certain prerequisite courses just to apply. If you're able to get into a BSN program, that's fantastic! If not, consider starting at a community or vocational college and then transferring. Keep in mind, some 4-year programs require you to complete specific courses within their program before you start the actual nursing coursework, and this typically happens in the first 2 years.
However, it's worth noting that 2-year and online programs often require certain prerequisite courses just to apply. If you're able to get into a BSN program, that's fantastic! If not, consider starting at a community or vocational college and then transferring. Keep in mind, some 4-year programs require you to complete specific courses within their program before you start the actual nursing coursework, and this typically happens in the first 2 years.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6338
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Layla!
Hey there, Layla! It's wonderful to hear you're considering a nursing career and seeking a jump-start. Here's a guide to assist you in exploring your choices:
**BSN versus ADN:**
* **BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing):** This four-year degree equips you with a robust foundation in nursing theory, research, and leadership, paving the way for more career prospects and an increased earning potential.
* **ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing):** This two-year degree prepares you to become a Registered Nurse (RN) after passing the NCLEX exam. It's a quicker pathway to becoming an RN but may restrict some job opportunities and advancement prospects compared to a BSN.
**UC Irvine and BSN Programs:**
* Indeed, UC Irvine boasts a competitive BSN program. Many universities have distinct requirements and application procedures for their BSN programs, often including prerequisites like biology, chemistry, and psychology before applying to the program within the university.
**Community College vs. University BSN:**
* **Community Colleges:** Some community colleges provide ADN programs, an excellent choice if you aim to become an RN swiftly and economically. However, transferring credits to a BSN program later might necessitate extra coursework.
* **University BSN:** This is your selected path. Each university BSN program has its unique application process and might have specific prerequisite courses you need to complete before applying to the nursing program within the university (usually in your sophomore year).
Here are your next steps:
1. **Reach Out to UC Irvine's Nursing Program:** They can provide details on their specific application requirements, deadlines, and the courses you need to complete before applying to the program.
2. **Consult Your Academic Advisor:** They can assist you in planning your coursework to meet the prerequisites for UC Irvine's BSN program while fulfilling your general education requirements in your sophomore year.
3. **Explore Other Universities:** Investigate BSN programs at other universities that pique your interest. They might have less stringent admissions procedures.
**Jump-starting Your Journey:**
* As you prepare to apply to the BSN program, consider taking relevant courses like biology, chemistry, and psychology.
* Seek volunteer roles at hospitals or clinics to acquire experience in healthcare environments.
* Explore various nursing specialties to identify which area you find most intriguing.
**Extra Tips:**
* **Keep Your GPA High:** This is key to securing acceptance into any BSN program.
* **Get Ready for the NCLEX exam:** This national exam is mandatory to become a licensed RN, irrespective of your degree route.
Remember, a BSN program demands commitment and time, but it will unlock more opportunities for your future nursing career.
Best of luck, Layla!
Blessings,
JC.
Hey there, Layla! It's wonderful to hear you're considering a nursing career and seeking a jump-start. Here's a guide to assist you in exploring your choices:
**BSN versus ADN:**
* **BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing):** This four-year degree equips you with a robust foundation in nursing theory, research, and leadership, paving the way for more career prospects and an increased earning potential.
* **ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing):** This two-year degree prepares you to become a Registered Nurse (RN) after passing the NCLEX exam. It's a quicker pathway to becoming an RN but may restrict some job opportunities and advancement prospects compared to a BSN.
**UC Irvine and BSN Programs:**
* Indeed, UC Irvine boasts a competitive BSN program. Many universities have distinct requirements and application procedures for their BSN programs, often including prerequisites like biology, chemistry, and psychology before applying to the program within the university.
**Community College vs. University BSN:**
* **Community Colleges:** Some community colleges provide ADN programs, an excellent choice if you aim to become an RN swiftly and economically. However, transferring credits to a BSN program later might necessitate extra coursework.
* **University BSN:** This is your selected path. Each university BSN program has its unique application process and might have specific prerequisite courses you need to complete before applying to the nursing program within the university (usually in your sophomore year).
Here are your next steps:
1. **Reach Out to UC Irvine's Nursing Program:** They can provide details on their specific application requirements, deadlines, and the courses you need to complete before applying to the program.
2. **Consult Your Academic Advisor:** They can assist you in planning your coursework to meet the prerequisites for UC Irvine's BSN program while fulfilling your general education requirements in your sophomore year.
3. **Explore Other Universities:** Investigate BSN programs at other universities that pique your interest. They might have less stringent admissions procedures.
**Jump-starting Your Journey:**
* As you prepare to apply to the BSN program, consider taking relevant courses like biology, chemistry, and psychology.
* Seek volunteer roles at hospitals or clinics to acquire experience in healthcare environments.
* Explore various nursing specialties to identify which area you find most intriguing.
**Extra Tips:**
* **Keep Your GPA High:** This is key to securing acceptance into any BSN program.
* **Get Ready for the NCLEX exam:** This national exam is mandatory to become a licensed RN, irrespective of your degree route.
Remember, a BSN program demands commitment and time, but it will unlock more opportunities for your future nursing career.
Best of luck, Layla!
Blessings,
JC.
Thank you so much! I appreciate your comment!
Layla