4 answers
Grace
Student
Grand Terrace, California
1
Question
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what is the best possible way to earn a degree in nursing? and what is the steps to get into nursing program, like the prerequisite
I have bachelor's degree in Finance and want to change my career into nursing here in USA. Have an experience as caregiver and in progress to get my CNA license.
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4 answers
Charanpreet Walia
Public Health Nurse
47
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Charanpreet’s Answer
Hello Grace
You can pursue an accelerated BSN program, which can take 1-2 years or more, depending on the availability of clinical rotations. You should compile a list of colleges that offer BSN or MSN programs and contact their counselors to learn about specific requirements. Some of the general education (GE) courses you have completed might count towards the BSN program. However, you may need to take additional science courses such as microbiology, anatomy, organic chemistry, and pathophysiology.
Depending on the college, you might also need to retake statistics, nutrition, and child development classes. Your first step should be to research and narrow down universities with accredited BSN or MSN programs, gather a list of required coursework, and identify any remaining GE courses you can complete, possibly at a community college.
I wish you good luck!
You can pursue an accelerated BSN program, which can take 1-2 years or more, depending on the availability of clinical rotations. You should compile a list of colleges that offer BSN or MSN programs and contact their counselors to learn about specific requirements. Some of the general education (GE) courses you have completed might count towards the BSN program. However, you may need to take additional science courses such as microbiology, anatomy, organic chemistry, and pathophysiology.
Depending on the college, you might also need to retake statistics, nutrition, and child development classes. Your first step should be to research and narrow down universities with accredited BSN or MSN programs, gather a list of required coursework, and identify any remaining GE courses you can complete, possibly at a community college.
I wish you good luck!
Christine Robinson
Nurse Case Manager
20
Answers
White Creek, NY
Updated
Christine’s Answer
I have a BS in Animal Science. I started nursing college by taking some courses I needed. So I could get back into the swing of college. I graduated at 21, then went back to school at 33. I applied to a Diploma program as it was cheaper than the out of state tuition for the nearby college which was a BSN program. We were dairy farmers and I had to work off the farm as the milk prices tanked. I also had 2 kids 7. I wish I could have afforded another BS program, but the funds were not there. I have been a nurse for 30 years. I still cannot afford a BSN. Which is sorely needed to get a job. I also Clepped a few courses which is studying, and taking a test. The courses I took were Sociology, Psych courses, gerontology and child and adolescent psych. You may already have done statistics so a BSN might be easier for you. Enjoy!
Megan Jackson BSN, RN
Registered Nurse
62
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Megan’s Answer
There are several paths you can take, each with its own time commitment. The fastest route is through an LVN/LPN program, which usually lasts 12-18 months and is offered at local community colleges. These programs often don't require any prerequisites. The benefits of this option are that you'll spend less time and money before you start working as a nurse. However, as an LPN, your job responsibilities and employment opportunities may be more restricted compared to an RN.
The next option is to become an RN with an associate degree. These programs are also available at community colleges, some hospitals, and independent private nursing programs. The prerequisites vary by institution and state but generally include Anatomy & Physiology 1 and 2, two English courses, chemistry, ethics, psychology, Algebra, and a few history courses. Most nursing programs require these to be completed before you can apply.
The last option is to earn a Bachelor's degree in nursing. This includes all the requirements of an associate degree in nursing, plus additional prerequisites like Statistics, Nutrition, and a Computer course. This degree is typically only available at Universities.
Whichever path you choose, remember that each step you take brings you closer to your goal. Best of luck with your decision!
The next option is to become an RN with an associate degree. These programs are also available at community colleges, some hospitals, and independent private nursing programs. The prerequisites vary by institution and state but generally include Anatomy & Physiology 1 and 2, two English courses, chemistry, ethics, psychology, Algebra, and a few history courses. Most nursing programs require these to be completed before you can apply.
The last option is to earn a Bachelor's degree in nursing. This includes all the requirements of an associate degree in nursing, plus additional prerequisites like Statistics, Nutrition, and a Computer course. This degree is typically only available at Universities.
Whichever path you choose, remember that each step you take brings you closer to your goal. Best of luck with your decision!
Mary Beth Rosenstiel, RN, DNP
RN, DNP
23
Answers
Gresham, Oregon
Updated
Mary Beth’s Answer
Since you already have a bachelor degree you will NOT need to go the typical route that Megan described above. You can earn a BSN in 11-16 months typically. You need to apply for an Accelerated BSN Program and you will get credit for courses taken before for many of the pre-reqs required for any nursing program. The more credits that can be transferred to nursing the better for you. Simply look online for those accelerated programs, review each one, and apply to the ones that will meet your needs and finances.
Apply and wait for acceptance, or you can take a course or two that you will need earlier. The more classes you complete before you enter the nursing program the less stress you have in getting all done in a timely manner. Many students take course such as biology, A&P, and statistics at community colleges and transfer them to university they enroll in.
Nursing education can be grueling at times, and you won’t have a lot of free time to unwind. Just remember in about a year it will be behind you.
Best of luck! Remember, you can do this!
Apply and wait for acceptance, or you can take a course or two that you will need earlier. The more classes you complete before you enter the nursing program the less stress you have in getting all done in a timely manner. Many students take course such as biology, A&P, and statistics at community colleges and transfer them to university they enroll in.
Nursing education can be grueling at times, and you won’t have a lot of free time to unwind. Just remember in about a year it will be behind you.
Best of luck! Remember, you can do this!
Thank you so much. But i got my bachelor’s degree from outside united states. Any recommendations on how to make that equal to US transcript? Thank you
Grace
There are companies that deal with degrees earned in other countries. Check w the schools you are interested and ask them…or contact the State Board of Nursing in that state and they can usually help as well. It isn’t a roadblock…just a slight detour delay.
Mary Beth Rosenstiel, RN, DNP