Louise Said:

I already have a BA in bus. admin. and considering a career change to nursing, what's the best way to do this?

We Answered:

So you have two options available to you. The first, you can apply to a community college for an RN ADN degree. An RN ADN has the same nursing education as a BSN. The only difference is that the BSN went to a 4 year university, they are both eligible to sit for the N-CLEX, they are both eligible for the same jobs, and depending on where you live, they both get paid the same. The only difference is that a BSN is eligible for certain promotions and jobs within the hospital because they have completed the general ed portion of a Bachelors. Having said that, because you already have a four year degree, depending on the hospital, you might be eligible for those jobs as well. Since you already have a BA it makes no sense for you to pursue a BSN. So, the Second option you have is to apply to an RN to MSN program. This is a program specifically for people who have a Bachelors in another field who want to go into nursing. The first two years of your program is devoted to becoming an RN while the the last portion is an accelerated Masters of Nursing program. After your first two years in the program you can sit for the N-CLEX and then work as a nurse while you finish your Masters.

Ana Said:

Career change... nursing (RN), advice from nursing students/experienced RN's pls!?

We Answered:

I am a RN with a bachelors degree. it took me 6yrs for a 4yr degree, but most 2 yr programs take 2-3yrs on average. it depends on your pre- reqs and waiting list to get into the actual nursing etc. I've been a nurse for almost 9 yrs. I work full time- three 12hr shifts. The pay is good, but sometimes I feel we deserve more since there is a lot of responsiblity resting on your shoulders. If you are nurturing you may like it. I would suggest shadowing someone if you get the chance or possibly being a nursing asst. somewhere to see what it's like caring for patients at the bedside. sometimes it's not always what you think it is. hope this helps.

Walter Said:

Want to do a career change to nursing from restaruant management?

We Answered:

You'd need to get admitted to a nursing school and complete the program, then take the state nursing test. Online courses for nursing aren't practical because much of the training is hands-on work with patients in a medical facility under supervision, but some of the required courses for your program might be available online.

If you want to make the change, now would be a good time.

Thomas Said:

28 male, planning a career change to nursing?

We Answered:

When I was young my parents put me through college and I did not work hard. But in my 30's I put myself through college for IT degree and worked much harder. I worked full time and studied full time. I was more motivated! I was more mature! Was exhausted! But I was going to be 4 years older whether or not I got the degree. You sound more mature and more motivated. It is not too late!

My niece started as LPN and is working in nursing while studying for her RN. (I might have the two sets of initials reversed.)

Only disadvantage is I have student loans later in life than normal. Really work at researching those scholorships and grants.