Dear Cindy – Accelerated BSN-MSN Program?

I have a science degree. I would like to pursue a career in nursing, with the ultimate goal of getting into nursing administration. I've heard about a few MSN programs that do not require a BSN (don't worry, they're accredited). Is this a good way to go about getting my MSN?

Sincerely,

Go for it?

According to a March 2005 American Association of Colleges of Nursing news bulletin article, Accelerated Programs: The Fast-Track to Careers in Nursing, the number of these accelerated BSN-MSN programs is increasing.

The bulletin characterizes individuals who take these programs as follows: "…motivated, older, and [with] higher academic expectations than high school-entry baccalaureate students. Accelerated students excel in class and are eager to gain clinical experiences. Faculty find them to be excellent learners who are not afraid to challenge their instructors."

Applicants usually must have a previous Bachelor's degree, and must have certain prerequisite courses (e.g. human anatomy) in order to apply for these programs, and since the programs offer graduate studies, students usually have to write the GRE (Graduate Record Examination).

Due to the compressed timeframe, the accelerated programs are intensive courses. The article describes the courses as follows: "Accelerated baccalaureate programs accomplish programmatic objectives in a shorter time frame than traditional four-year programs, usually through a combination of bridge courses and core content. Instruction is intense with courses offered full-time with no breaks between sessions. Students receive the same number of clinical hours as their counterparts in traditional programs. Admission standards are high … Accelerated programs require a heavy credit load and intense clinical experiences."

Another reality is cost. Again, quoting the article: "In instances where employers are not repaying educational debt, the cost of an accelerated program can be prohibitive. 'I receive many inquiries about our accelerated program, but the lack of financial aid is the major deterrent,' said Arlene G. Wiens, PhD, RN, Nursing Department Chair at Eastern Mennonite University (VA)."

Obviously, the accelerated BSN-MSN programs have some advantages – speed, obviously being the main one. So if you have the drive, the brains, and the energy, go for it. But don't think that you'll graduate one day and be a DON the next. It's not only the paper that counts, it's also the experience and the credibility.