Associates to Nurse Practitioner Program or is BSN required?

Hi! I am considering going to school for Nursing. My intentions would be to become an Nurse Practitioner. I've heard so many different path options, I'd hate to waste time.

Is there some sort of bridge option to go from your Associates in Nursing straight through your Masters? Or do you need to stop at the point of BSN, become an RN then continue? If you do, can work experience be part of your continuing education towards your masters?

These days if you want to do anything beyond being a staff nurse, you need to get a BSN. You have to have a BSN before you can become a Nurse Practitioner which is a masters specialty degree. Nurse anesthetist schools and most managerial positions also require at least a BSN. You need a Master's to teach nursing too.

It really doesn't take that much longer. And it's really worth it in the long run--it will give you that much more flexibility in your career. I got my BSN when the diploma program was the only alternative. I've been an RN since 1969. You can really tell the difference between someone who has a BSN rather than an AD in terms of their knowledge, leadership skills and their ability to function in crisis situations. Sorry if I've hurt anybody's feelings. Good luck.

Get your BSN then apply for Nurse Prac. Program! Good luck!

You can do a bridge from your ASN to BSN. Once you have your BSN you go on to a graduate program.

Good luck!